One of the biggest trends that has recently emerged from Hollywood is the rise of celebrity lifestyle brands. It’s fair to say that we thank Gwyneth Paltrow for spearheading this trend in 2008 with the launch of her lifestyle website GOOP (www.GOOP.com). GOOP initially started as a personal outlet for Gwyneth to share her unbiased opinions on nutrition, travel and style; but has since turned into a thriving business for the star complete with brand partnerships and clothing collaborations. With the growing popularity of social media platforms, celebrities can now drop the curtain and provide fans a glimpse into their lifestyle and in some cases, a direct link to how we can live it too. Want to know what Gwyneth eats to stay fit? Or where to get the Blake Lively shirt she wore to the park last week? Look no further than their personal website.
Everything from what to wear, to the best hotels and the latest beauty trends that were normally reserved for the rich and famous are now accessible to all of us. The latest celebrity to get in on the lifestyle game is Oscar award-winning actress and producer Reese Witherspoon with the launch of southern lifestyle brand Draper James.
Unlike Paltrow’s GOOP, Draper James is less a “guide to life” and more a brand that offers a selection of clothing, accessories, and home décor. Launched this past spring, Draper James was created by Reese as a tribute to his southern roots. Named after her grandparents Dorothea Draper and William James Witherspoon, Reese says she aims to “recapture and celebrate everything I love and remember about my grandparents and the Southern and bring contemporary, yet timeless Southern style to your wardrobe and your home.” , no matter where you live.” Throughout the site, Reese’s presence is felt from modeling different looks to adding personal comments and anecdotes in the “Love, Reese” section. A real southern girl at heart, Reese gives us insight into the lifestyle. and design aesthetics.
True to southern fashion, Draper James’ outfits were smooth and polished in bright colours and bold prints. The collection is complete with dresses, tops, jeans and outerwear priced from $100-$300. Along with clothes and accessories, they also offer a range of home decor and gift products including linens and stationery. True to its southern form, the site also offers a personalization shop where you can purchase monogrammed napkins, pillows, and bags. Currently an online shopping destination only, there are plans in the works this fall to open a storefront in Nashville that will mirror the feel and look of the Witherspoon home there.
While it remains to be seen where this celebrity trend will finally take us, Reese has found a special niche with Draper James, taking southern style to the fore. In an era where “Who are you wearing” is the most commonly asked question on the red carpet and all over fashion blogs and magazines, there is no doubt that celebrities like Reese and Gwyneth Paltrow are on to something. For more information or to shop for Draper James, visit www.draperjames.com
