Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
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South End aesthetic (clockwise from left): Swatches hold the bright colors and patterns that pop on womenswear designer Sara Campbell's Spring creations; Campbell's South End boutique; consulting the inspiration board in her nearby studio. For 25 years, designer Sara Campbell has charmed style- savvy women in Boston and beyond with her timeless silhou- ettes. The most recent high- profile client? Hillary Clinton, who wore Campbell's designs throughout her presidential cam- paign. Here, Campbell speaks to achievements, philanthropy, and her vision for spring. You've dressed celebs, opened 18 boutiques, and designed fashion classics like the Magic Dress. Is there one moment you are most proud of professionally? Each day is a new beginning—a new design, a new idea, a new worry. My definition of success from the moment I started this business at age 25 was to sup- port myself while being creative. When I was able to buy my first home, in Dorchester, when I was 30 years old—that was my first biggest achievement. Today, nothing makes me happier than when my daughters steal a "Sara Campbell" from my closet! What are some of your favorite events to dress? It's a thrill to dress White House events, but my favorite Boston event is Party in the Park, a spec- tacular festival of hats and dresses. What are your fashion picks for spring? Dresses always steal the season, and large floral prints will be the statement-makers this year. One tip: Invest in a new handbag! The colors and shapes this year are spectacular. How has philanthropy influenced your work? Giving back is the most important part of our mission. Focusing on children's and women's needs, we support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The Ellie Fund, Women's Lunch Place, Rosie's Place, and Dress for Suc- cess. 44 Plympton St., 617-482- 7272; saracampbellwebsite.com . THE SARA-TORIALIST THE SOUTH END'S SARA CAMPBELL LOOKS BACK ON A QUARTER-CENTURY OF DRESSING THE BEST DRESSED. BY SARA CORNELL 76 BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN PU RUIZ "MY DEFINITION OF SUCCESS FROM THE BEGINNING WAS TO SUPPORT MYSELF WHILE BEING CREATIVE." —sara campbell STYLE MILESTONE