A Dallas Art Fair first-timer this year, Taylor Tomasi Hill, the VP creative and women’s fashion director, is busy selecting new and special styles for stores that will add to the everyday uniform. In a recent conversation with Whitewaller, she told us she’s got her eye on Miu Miu shoes, handbags from The Row and pieces from French rising star Simon Porte Jacquemus for spring. Below, we learn more about her return to Dallas and her role at Forty Five Ten.
WHITEWALLER: In 2000, when Forty Five Ten opened in your hometown of Dallas, you were still in college. Last year, you moved back to help with the store’s expansion. What sets the Dallas fashion community apart from anywhere else?
Photo by Nathan Schroeder. Courtesy of Forty Five Ten.
TAYLOR TOMASI HILL: I’m continually surprised by how fashion-adventurous the Dallas woman is. Our customer is so well traveled and cultured. She knows what’s out there and appreciates quality and good design.
WW: Forty Five Ten on Main, the new four-level flagship store spanning 37,000 square feet, recently opened in November. How has the community received the new store so far?
Taylor Tomasi Hill.Photo by Nathan Schroeder.
Courtesy of Forty Five Ten.
TTH: I think people are surprised by how easy it is to get downtown. Once they see the store and experience the vibrancy and energy here, there’s a whole mental shift. They actually look forward to spending the day downtown—shopping, having lunch, and meeting friends.
WW: What are some key pieces that you try to always have accessible at Forty Five Ten for all types of women?
TTH: Denim! I want Forty Five Ten to be a place where you can find your elevated, everyday uniform. Every piece has a little something special going on.
WW: The store has a way of merging art and fashion, and the events around the Dallas Art Fair are a great chance to take risks and stand out with fashion. Are there any spring collections or accessories that you think might appeal to fairgoers in Dallas?
TTH: There’s a very architectural aspect to the clothes from Maison Rabih Kayrouz. The designer was born in Beirut but trained at Chanel and Dior and has based his house in Paris. Each piece is like wearing art. The feather pieces from Prada are ladylike and feminine, but still make a statement. The ruffle tops and dresses from Brock Collection stand out. Co is great for everyday statement pieces—totally wearable but still wow!
