Meet Tanya Taylor's Alter Ego: Delphine, a Muse for NYC Night Owls

Tanya Taylor has been ready for something new.

The New York City-based designer officially launched a new label, named Delphine, that serves as a sartorial alter ego to what's been her main line. Delphine is all about eveningwear and embodies a sense of elegance, sophistication, and a touch of mystery. For the new label, Taylor crafted a wardrobe for the woman who easily moves between personas—chic by day and glamorous by night.

“There’s a joke that all my friends make when we are out together…‘Delphine’ is coming out,” Taylor told L'OFFICIEL, describing how the idea started as a silly alter ego she took on a girls' night out, which eventually came full circle with a fully realized brand. The debut collection’s design takes cues from previous epochs and blends that with a modern edge. For example, Delphine revives vintage elements like peplums and voluminous puff sleeves, but reimagines them in a way that feels approachable and comfortable.

“Delphine has become my little playground. I love the current revival of vintage on the red carpet,” Taylor says. “We took out the seriousness and heaviness, focusing on weightlessness and lightness.” Each garment’s construction balances traditional tailoring techniques, like interior boning, with a casual comfort that encourages the wearer to move freely.

“Since we’re launching this during the holiday season, we leaned into the nocturnal spirit,” Taylor adds. Delphine's color palette consists of jewel tones as well as shades of mustard and pistachio, reflecting Taylor’s vision for festive pieces. Fabrics like satin, faille, and stretch crepe bring a rich, textured feel to the collection. They're enhanced by playful patterns and an homage to Delphine’s “neutral” of the season: polka dots.

Delphine first appeared as a muse during Taylor’s scholarly days at Parsons School of Design. Though the character remained in the background, her allure never faded. The decision to launch came after customers' response to a polka-dot mini dress in the Tanya Taylor flagship store window: “Customers of all ages were willing to wait and pay a premium,” Taylor says. This helped her recognize there was a demand for Delphine’s unique style.

Taylor's years of experience with her namesake label gave her the clarity needed to launch this new brand confidently. “We’re launching a new brand without new brand problems,” she says, reflecting on the constructive feedback and robust relationships she’s built with retail partners. This strategic foundation has allowed Delphine to enter the fashion world through partnerships with Moda Operandi, Hampden, and specialty boutiques like Cabana Canary and Valentines, aligning with the brand’s adventurous spirit.

"I see Delphine going out all around NYC. I see her starting her evening with a martini at Bemelmans, then going downtown to Chez Margaux to dance with her friends, and ending her night at a dive bar," Taylor says playfully.