Polly Mellen remembered
Thoughts and prayers to all the fashion journalists this week. I’m not sure what’s up with the planets but it’s been a whirlwind of arrivals, departures and confirmations.
The happy news is that Chanel has confirmed Matthieu Blazy as its next artistic director (following his successful three years at Bottega Veneta) and Bottega has confirmed Louise Trotter as Blazy’s replacement. Yes, I’m delighted!
The sad news is that John Galliano (AKA Johnny G – cute!) is departing Maison Margiela after ten years. Not sure where he goes next.
But very sad is the news that the incredible stylist and one of my fashion idols Polly Allen Mellen has died at the age of 100. A larger than life force in the mould of Diana Vreeland or Andre Leon Talley, Mellen worked with the photography greats (Avedon, Turbeville, Newton) directing so many iconic fashion editorials from the 70s, 80s and 90s that are embedded in our psyches.
It’s been lovely reading all the tributes to Polly from everyone she came into contact with. And revisiting some most excellent footage of her discussing her love for her work. The only glimmer of good news in this story is this post from filmmaker Douglas Keeve, who revealed that he has finally finished the documentary on Polly that I’ve been waiting for since 2008.
Said Keeve: “I had the privilege of filming Polly over four years in the 90s and our relationship became something truly special. The film wasn’t completed then but I never let go of the belief that Polly’s extraordinary life deserved to be celebrated. Driven by the desire to honor her legacy, I recently worked to complete the film. I was just feeling ready to share it with her when I got the news. It would have meant so much to share it with her. I know she would have loved it.” There are some wonderful clips on his Instagram of Polly talking about Helmut Lang. It’s a small hint at the dynamism, personal passion and creative intelligence that made up the work of Polly Mellen. I can’t wait to see the film.
WORDS: Disneyrollergirl / Navaz Batliwalla
IMAGES: Ron Galella; Hans Feurer
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