Followers of ABC’s hit show “Scandal” starring Kerry Washington love the political plotline, the suspense, the sexy side stories and the drama, but fashion retailer, The Limited, is betting big on the fact that the clothes, worn by Washington’s character, Olivia Pope, are a major part of the draw as well.
In late September, the Limited Scandal collection will launch at 250 Limited stores and on the company’s website. The 42-piece line ranges in price from $49 to $248 and includes mix-and-match tops, pants, jackets and outerwear in the neutral, feminine colors that have become a Pope signature. And here’s the big news, the star, who until now has been costumed in big name (as in expensive) designers such as Armani, Donna Karan and Gucci, will actually wear some of these clothes on the show.
The collection is a result of collaboration between Washington and the show’s costume designer Lyn Paolo, in partnership with Elliot Staples, head of design from The Limited.
“By creating a line inspired by the show, we are introducing a collection that embodies the elegance and power of the ‘Scandal’ aesthetic for real-life gladiators and everyday fashionistas,” Washington says. “The collection is a nod to our devoted fans, to fans of fashion and to women everywhere who are inspired to boldly pursue their passions and look good while doing it.”
Adds Paolo, “The whole team took great care in creating a collection that reflects Olivia Pope’s unique style. We believe the collection tells a story of confidence and professional sophistication as well as maintaining a strong feminine point of view.”
The Limited’s chief executive officer, Diane Ellis, told Women’s Wear Daily that Washington’s character “… represents a confident, powerful, but real and kind of vulnerable woman. Our sophisticated professional can really relate to that. She’s dealing with crisis, scandal and a life that is very complex and challenging, not maybe to the extent [as Olivia].”
Bottom line? Even if you’re not having an affair with the president, wardrobe dilemmas can be a daily crisis. Now, with The Limited Scandal collection, well … as Pope might say, it’s handled.