It was 1986, during the presidency of Ronald Reagan, that the PLAZA COLLECTION was conceived. The 1980's had started with a deep recession but by 1986, prosperity was back in fashion and a return to elegance of dress was on the horizon. Betmar designer Ms. Arleen knew that fashion headwear would have an opportunity to complete the looks that the best designers were showing. She convinced Betmar president, Bernard Grossman, that the time was right and a new line/look was authorized.
Several months later all concerned sat together at the Plaza Hotel - the Oak Room to be exact - on a hot summer's night, tired after a long day's work. They had just completed a dramatic photography session of the Spring 1987 collection. As they sat and talked and drank, they all knew that this line needed a name that would truly reflect all the work and effort Ms. Arleen had put into it. She was delighted, the line was truly elegant. The photographer, Bob Barclay was excited as he knew the photos had captured the mood that was needed. Sam Flax, the creative director, looked around at the PLAZA and said simply, "We've just created a look that matches the aura and mystique of this grand hotel." THE PLAZA SUITE COLLECTION, the work of many talented people was done.
