Stacey Bendet, the creative mind behind Alice + Olivia, recently shared a story of going to extreme lengths to look good for an event at her Southampton store. In a rush, she had to pull over in a parking lot to change from jeans into a gown and jacket from her latest collection in collaboration with Israeli artist Shira Barzilay of Koketit. Bendet’s dedication to her image underscores the importance she places on presenting herself in a certain way, even in the face of time constraints.
While Bendet’s dedication to her work is apparent, she also revealed the reason behind her tardiness for the event – her daughter was getting surgery for a broken collarbone caused by a fall while horseback riding. This personal revelation humanizes Bendet and reminds us that behind every successful designer is a multifaceted individual with personal challenges and triumphs.
An Artistic Partnership
The collaboration between Stacey Bendet and Shira Barzilay is more than just a creative venture. Bendet, who is Jewish, saw the collaboration as an opportunity to highlight Barzilay’s work and support an Israeli artist during a time of heightened antisemitism. Despite the risks of backlash, Bendet remains steadfast in her decision to shine a light on Barzilay’s talent and share it with the world.
Shira Barzilay, known for her signature single-line drawings, has faced challenges in her career due to political tensions in the region. She candidly shared that she lost some projects following a recent terror attack in Israel. Despite this setback, Barzilay remains committed to her mission of speaking her truth through her art. Her collaboration with Bendet not only showcases her resilience but also underscores the power of creativity to transcend political divides.
An Act of Resilience
Barzilay’s statement about her pain being politicized speaks to the complexity of being an artist in a conflicted world. Her message of unity and strength in the face of adversity resonates with audiences who recognize the transformative power of art. By creating personalized paintings for guests at the event and painting a jacket worn by actress Jenny Mollen, Barzilay demonstrates how art can be a vehicle for connection and empowerment.
The partnership between Stacey Bendet and Shira Barzilay is not just about fashion or art – it is a testament to the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity. By coming together in collaboration, these two women defy political pressures and celebrate the power of artistic expression. Their story serves as a reminder that art knows no boundaries and has the potential to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds in a shared appreciation for beauty and innovation.