Nary Manivong, whose journey from homeless child to fashion designer is chronicled in the documentary "Dressed," has a new partner: Ally Hilfiger, daughter of famed fashion designer Tommy.
"Those two were meant to work together," said David Swajeski, director/producer of "Dressed," at a screening of the film Wednesday night at SoHo House.
The new clothing line is called NAHM, a combination of the duo's initials.
“It’s a wonderful collaboration,” said "Dressed" executive producer Maryanne Grisz. “They have a creative synergy that’s amazing. I think that they’re doing really incredible stuff.”
The documentary follows Manivong’s pursuit of recognition within the fashion world.
“[Nary] has a pure spirit and determination. He draws the right people to him,” Swajeski said.
So, how’d Manivong meet up with Hilfiger?
"They met by chance through a mutual friend," Grisz said. "She styled two collections of his and they became friends.
"I can see why they connected. They have sincerity. Integrity. I think there’s a very mutual respect.”
Swajeski's film explores the 180-degree transition for Nary, from struggle to success.
“We wanted to do a film about an average everyday person who had a dream," Swajeski said. "We didn’t know where it was going to go. It’s a documentary; you just follow and you hope. We think the outcome’s really cool.”
As for what’s ahead?
"We’re filming still," Swajeski said. "We’re filming right up to [Nary’s] first show with Ally. We’re following it.”
New footage will be posted at http://www.dressed-themovie.com/.
