(Danielle Gersh/The Daily Campus)
Jungle-inspired papier-mâché art installations set the decadent tone for Hermès silver anniversary celebration. The iconic French label toasted to 25 years in Dallas and the big bash, benefiting the Dallas Zoo, gave new meaning to the term “party animals.”
The wildlife-themed sculptures swinging from the trees and Hermes’ high ceilings were created by local artist Justine Wollaston, and the delightful, hand-made pieces sold out almost immediately during the event.
Just minutes from the Boulevard, several style-conscious SMU students attended the fashionable event, and the Hilltop crowd was decidedly tame compared to the revelry seen among party patrons clamoring for Birkin bags.
To honor its anniversary, Hermès unveiled the “Jungle Love” collection, which consisted of scarves for women ($385) and ties for men ($185). The items, designed by Robert Dallet, are animal print-inspired and available in several colors. The pieces are exclusive to the Hèrmes Highland Park Village location.
“People in Dallas expect nothing but the best and Hermès is exactly that. Hèrmes being here shows the strong bond between Hèrmes and the city of Dallas. The fact that Hèrmes would print a special scarf in which 20 percent of the proceeds benefit the Dallas Zoo, says a lot about that special relationship,” said Jim Duran of DFW Style Daily.
Fashion is highly regarded both in the city of Dallas and on the SMU campus, and Duran described the student body’s style as “red carpet” chic. However, Duran also suggested a need for more creativity and more of a European influence.
“Hermès is definitely a staple designer on the Boulevard at SMU. These days it’s a rare occurrence to walk to class without spotting at least one signature ‘H’ on an accessory,” said Mustang senior Kelsea West.
The notably fashionable undergraduates will be glad to know that the Hermès exclusive “Jungle Love” collection will be available for purchase in the store for the next few weeks. Originally a saddle maker, many Hermès fans hope that the famous label would consider crafting an anniversary piece for Peruna.
