Stella McCartney, British fashion designer and daughter of Paul McCartney and his late wife, Linda, opened her flagship store in the SoHo neighborhood of New York City on January 9th. On hand to help the favorite designer of clients (including Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Kate Moss, and Natalie Portman) celebrate were two other well-known ladies, both supporters and friends of McCartney: Liv Tyler and Naomi Watts. Just Jared reports that the intimate dinner was prepared by celebrity chef Mario Batali.
McCartney, who studied fashion design in London, started creating her own line upon graduation. Being a vegan, she was clear that her clothing line reflect her lifestyle. Vegan diets promote clear and smooth skin, strong nails, clear eyes, great skin tone, and silky hair. She wanted her clothing to look fresh and romantic as the vegan diet helps enhance the body that wears it.
The highly talented designer was clearly getting by without the help of her famous name. Known for her romantic, sweet, pastel garments, which always have an edgy accent, such as a rock and roll zippers and slasher shirts, her line is always comfortable and wearable. She soon had an all-star following which led her to be one of today’s leading designers. Even Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge and sister, Pippa Middleton, have been seen wearing some of McCartney’s creations.
Like her family, Stella McCartney is adamant about preserving wildlife as well as the beauty and health rewards a no animal protein diet can produce. According to nymag.com, her collections are always made of animal-free materials. Her belts and shoes, which resemble leather, are made from a plant derivative product. In keeping with tradition, Mr. Batali created an intimate, vegetarian dinner for guests served on what has become known as Meat Free Monday among many restauranteurs. Batali designed a festive New York scene complete with floating boats serving his delicacies through a table moat surrounded by ice sculptures.
With the beautiful fashions and interesting meal preparation, it seems a good time was had by all. With friends like Liv Tyler, Naomi Watts, and Mario Batali joining her at the opening, it seems Stella McCartney did not mind a bit getting by with a little help from her friends.
Sources: nymag.com, Photo: uk in france