Responsible Luxury
Inevitably, when spring hits, the social obligations fill the calendar with charity events, weddings, bar mitzvahs, and graduations. In the next six weeks alone we have three galas, two weddings, and Ira’s graduation from residency—each with an evening-wear dress code. The idea of buying six dresses in six weeks is not only exorbitantly costly, but also feels environmentally irresponsible. Though I absolutely endorse the “re-wear,” the reality is that in the era of social media documentation, most of us don’t like to repeat special occasion ensembles. The majority of my friends agree that we have all accumulated closets full of dresses we have worn once, maybe twice at the most. How wasteful. In a world of fast fashion where less and less emphasis is being placed on quality, event-dressing is one area I would really rather not compromise. The question begs, what is the solution for the fashion-conscious, environmentally responsible lady with the stacked calendar of social events?
I want to introduce you all to Nova Octo, a luxury rental concept specializing in high-end eveningwear. With a gorgeous showroom located in New York City's TriBeCa neighborhood, the company launched in August 2018 with a mission to bring sustainability to event dressing. The collection of one-of-a-kind garments includes Oscar de la Renta, Elie Saab, Carolina Herrera, Giambattista Valli Couture, and many more coveted designers. Nova Octo encourages women to understand the value of these exquisites pieces like the two-piece set from Maticevski I’m wearing here, while bringing a consciousness to the impact on our environment. If that’s not enticing enough, there is also philanthropic motivation with 15% of every rental donated to charity! How wonderful it feels to experience fashion that is financially, environmentally, and socially responsible!
Rent online or pay a visit to the elegant showroom for a fitting where you will receive the red carpet treatment as you get up close and personal with hundreds of precious designs.
Photography: Anthony Vazquez
Location: 17 Sutton Place Secret Garden
For information on the property contact Susan Rubin & Gilian Bland of Brown Harris Stevens: