Canadian designer Lida Baday is finding that Oprah Winfrey's Midas touch works magic on more than just books. After the one-woman phenom chose a Baday ensemble to wear on the January cover of her magazine O, the phone has been ringing off the hook.
"The response to the cover has been amazing," Baday spokeswoman Pat Angelakos says. "There have been steady calls and e-mails. Customers are even calling back to tell of their successful purchases!"
The outfit that struck a chord is a matte jersey pants and cardigan set, in the colour milk, from the Resort 2001 collection. Winfrey's interest was reportedly sparked by staff members familiar with the designer's collection, which is available at U.S. retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstom. (In Canada, it's carried by selected Holt Renfrew and Bay stores as well as independent retailers; call 1-800-317-7661.)
"Lida was so touched, she tailored it especially for Oprah," Angelakos says.
Unlike an Oprah book club selection, the resulting outfit will not appear in stores bearing a gold-embossed seal of approval. The cardigan was custom-made, but similar styles are available in black. Though customized, the V-neck halter top and pants are available in most stores. Winfrey, of course, topped off the look with Manolo Blahniks and diamonds.
"Although Lida is known for her minimal approach to dressing and designing, not even she can object to those exquisite diamonds," Angelakos says.