Halston Season 1 Episode 1 Becoming Halston

Halston Season 1 Episode 1, entitled "Becoming Halston," is a journey through the life of a young, ambitious fashion designer who wanted to conquer the world with his innovative designs in the 1960s. The episode takes us back to 1961 in the city that never sleeps, New York City.

Roy Halston Frowick, a milliner who had worked for Bergdorf Goodman, is seen taking his first steps towards the runway, determined to leave his mark in the world of fashion. We see him moving to Chicago to work with rising star women's wear designer, Eleanor Lambert, who becomes his mentor. Halston, a shy and reserved person, soon realizes the opportunities that lie ahead in the world of haute couture.

In "Becoming Halston," we follow his journey as he meets his muse, Liza Minnelli, and their friendship grows with time. We get a glimpse of the connection that the duo shared and how Liza played a significant role in Halston's career.

As Halston rises in fame, he becomes the go-to designer for the elite of New York City, including socialites like Babe Paley and icons like Jackie Kennedy, who is seen wearing his infamous pink pillbox hat. His fashion line grows rapidly, and he soon becomes a household name.

The episode takes us through his first fashion show in 1968, where his signature pieces from his eponymous label wow the audience with their minimalistic design, an ode to his inspirations from his Midwest roots. Halston is joined by his team, including a young designer, Joel Schumacher, and public relations expert, Elsa Peretti, as they work hard towards their success.

But with fame and success come challenges, and Halston realizes that he cannot sustain his business on his own. He partners with Jerome Chazen, who helps him turn his vision into reality. His fashion empire grows, and he moves to a new studio in the city to continue his journey to the top.

But the episode reveals something darker too, as Halston gets a taste of the underbelly of the fashion industry. He becomes addicted to drugs and falls into a spiral of self-destruction, losing those close to him in the process.

The episode concludes with Halston at the peak of his career, ready to take on the world. As he prepares for his next fashion show, he faces inner demons and the pressures that come with the industry. How he handles these challenges defines the course of his career and sets the stage for future episodes of the series.

Overall, Halston Season 1 Episode 1 is an excellent introduction to the designer. It sets the stage for a thrilling journey through the life of a man who rose against all odds to become one of the icons of the fashion industry. The episode is beautifully shot and the performances by Ewan McGregor, Krysta Rodriguez, and Rebecca Dayan are outstanding. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in fashion, history, or the human struggle for success.