Myne: Reconstructing the Classics

Wunderkind designer Ashley Ann cites vintage fashion, people-watching and Hollywood glam as inspirations for her collection of contemporary dresses and tops. Prior to launching Myne, the young designer assisted with wardrobe styling for several movies, which subsequently led to other styling gigs. A penchant for reconstructing clothes and modernizing classic silhouettes led Ann to the Spring 2007 launch of Myne. The stylish line brought a pretty juxtaposition of shiny and matte silks to soft, feminine cuts.

The latest collections include the original silky fabrications that gained fast popularity, as well as cotton blends with pleating and button details. Flirty and playful with a necessary dose of elegance and sophistication, Myne consistently offers a well-edited collection of bold and colorful prints, a rich color palette, and exceedingly comfortable designs. The flow-y silhouettes are forgiving for many body types, as the body-skimming silks are pleated and tucked in all the right places. Pockets (a functional and comfortdriven design detail) are a reoccurring element in the designs. Standouts in the Winter collection include the “Joy” top and “Jill” dress with a sheer deacute;colleteacute; and button-up collar, as well as the simple, chic “Lauren” mini-dress with three-quarter-length sleeves and a thick contrasting banded hem. The floral “Poppy” and “Daisy” prints are eyecatching alternatives to the subdued solid hues of navy, lunar and plum. Several signature pieces, including the puff-sleeve “Roxanne” dress and strapless “Ash” dress, take on a new look with updated fabrications. “I am delighted that I have had such a great response on Fall ’07,” Ann said of her second season. Of her third season, she said, “Holiday is a modern take on classic silhouettes infused with prints and gorgeous rich colors.”

Further exhibiting her youthful flair, Ann said the upcoming Spring 2008 collection is “going to be fun,” with vibrant colors, more striking prints, polka dots and gold. In addition to an array of cute dresses, Ann will offer an increased assortment of tops “that can be perfectly paired with skinny jeans or tucked into high-waisted pants.”

Fans of the line include Hollywood starlets Sophia Bush and Vanessa Minnillo, as well as tabloid regulars Britney Spears and Kristin Cavallari. Diavolina, Switch and Intermix are among the top retailers for the line. Wholesale prices range from $70 to $150 (retail $154 to $330). For information, contact the Point A Showroom at (212) 398-3206 or visit www.myne-la.com. —Dena Smolek