CONTINUED

The reprieve

AFTER I staggered out of the Bill Blass show, I went outside to first grab a big gulp of fresh air, a stiff latte at the Dunkin’ Donuts’ conces­sion stand, then I crossed Sixth Avenue to the O’Halloran Co. horse trailer parked in front of the Bryant Park tents. Instead of paying money she doesn’t have to rent space inside the tents to show a collection that presently doesn’t warrant the runway experience, Catherine O’Halloran Cordova, owner and designer, invested in doing more with less. With a Coach Guard blowing a horn to draw attention to the trailer, I joined the congo line of dazed editors where we found a collection that immediately cleansed the palate in the most delightful of ways.
   O’Halloran Co. was found in 1999 by Ms Cordova, who was inspired by her appreciation for rural life and horses. Initially, her marketing efforts were geared towards the equestrian–horsey set with its horseware and riding apparel but with the addition of a more varied women’s designer apparel line, home décor items and accessories, Ms Cordova has gained national recognition for her fine wool outerwear, elegantly designed separates and handcrafted jewellery. There is an insightful simplicity to all the pieces in this collection. The various pieces defined a lifestyle but their innate functionality outside of the rural setting makes them potential modern classics that work just as well in the city. Her Bridget Tailored Black Corduroy Coat, in 100 per cent cotton corduroy with a cotton twill lining, flared in all the right places at the cuffs. It’s a foundation wardrobe piece that will last for a very long time. Come fall, her Chinook quilted jacket, a beau­tifully fitted nylon jacket with mini-diamond quilting, Princess seams, zip front, and slash pockets, will serve double duty of lending prac­ticality and style to your riding excursions in the country and your adventures in the city during the week.
   This collection has everything—handcrafted, equestrian and leather jewellery, equestrian-themed quilts, throw blankets and pillows and shoes and apparel for men and children. This is a collection worth further investigation—even if you have never been near a horse and doesn’t plan to anytime soon. Her designs ultimately make it possible to ‘feel well turned-out for weekend activities in comfort without sacri­ficing comfort but still look fantastic in the city.’
   O’Halloran Co. products are designed by horse lovers and country life enthusiasts with each piece crafted or sown in the United States; and strive to use materials from domestic sources, including US mills, whenever possible. The company is headquartered in Miller­town, NY, where customers can visit the O’Halloran Co. Store at 65 Main Street. Catalogues are available by calling 1 518 789-4785, and online shopping is available at www.ohalloranco.com. •

Phillip D. Johnson is features’ editor of Lucire.