House of Z

I’ve always loved watching documentaries, especially when they revolve around things I’m interested in. So when I was told I needed to watch House of Z for uni I was extremely happy! 

House of Z is a Netflix documentary all about the life and fashion career of Zac Posen and his brand. Not really having researched him or his life before I was intrigued to find out more about him. 

I found the documentary really inspiring and learnt a lot about the struggles Zac went through while trying to establish his brand and keep it current and relevant. 

After creating one off pieces for his friends and models Zac began to gain attention through New York magazines, and more and more people were falling in love with his fun electric personality. 

The head of Henri Bendel’s buying team eventually went to see Zac’s designs and he put on a fashion show in his small basement apartment showcasing a small collection of new designs. At this point his sister joined him to help him create and manage his visions. 

Zac’s first show was praised by many editors and fashion critics for his technical abilities and imagination. He began to enter a new world mixing with the huge names of the industry, designers like Tom Ford and famous models and actresses. 

However, his eccentric shows and over the top designs reached a point when they became too much, and were impossible to wear and to sell. Zac began to struggle. After heading to Paris fashion week Zac was once again receiving negative reviews. Fashion director of Instyle said “ we all know how talented he is but it’s like he can’t find a centre.” Another claimed “he sabotaged his own career trying to be too creative.” 

After struggling with his company, his health and not speaking to his family, Zac decided he needed a change. He re-built his team and gained back his creative drive, embarking on a new comeback. His first fashion show in NY after re-establishing his brand and designs was extremely well received, the designs were “look after look after look...I was so wowed by how beautiful they were.”

Once again Zac was at the top. His designs were crafted with love and dedication, resulting in gorgeous gowns and red carpet worthy looks. 

I loved this documentary as it gave me a true insight into the stuggles Zac went through, but also how he came back from them and re-built himself and the brand. 

His designs are beautifully made and his technical abilities are second to none. I have gained a whole new appreciation for his work through watching this documentary.