When a new designer somehow manages to change the aesthetic scene of an entire event, it’s a pretty safe bet they’re the next big thing. Such was the case with this year’s Whitney Art Party, with Alexandra O’Neill giving the crowd a much needed ‘Kira Kira’ shine, dressing everyone from Hilary Rhoda to Ashley Graham in her line Markarian’s latest collection of dream, prêt-à-party dresses.Fresh off a November launch on The Platform, Moda Operandi’s new incubator for emerging designers, Markarian’s is a “feminine and ethereal” look – one pretty piece after another that will have you making an occasion out of just about anything. As one who clearly practices what she preaches, Alexandra’s Greenwich Village home is just as well styled as the designer herself. We caught up with Ali at her divinely decorated downtown abode to get the skinny on everything from her must-shop stores to that one piece every woman should have in her closet.
How did you find yourself in the design world?
My grandmother, GiGi, lived with my family growing up and taught me how to sew at a very young age. I fell in love with making clothing when I was 10 and always knew this is what I wanted to do. GiGi still helps me with tricky patterns and structure now.
What’s your favorite occasion to dress for?
I will take any excuse to dress up a little and love getting dressed for the holidays. My grandparents throw a party at their home on Christmas Eve every year that our whole family gets decked out for. My Great Aunt Beth has worn this incredible gold velvet floor length skirt for the past 30 years that is beautiful. The party is so festive and puts you into such wonderful holiday spirits.
What’s your everyday go-to look?
Light washed Levi’s, a t-shirt, and a vintage jacket.
What are some of your most loved labels or stores?
I am a vintage hound. My favorite vintage store in the city is Edith Machinist in the LES. I also find such incredible treasures at the Manhattan Vintage show every time it happens. Other stores I love are Antony Todd home, the Apartment by the Line, and the well curated collections and events at the Moda Operandi Madison store.
What’s the one piece every woman should have in her closet?
A knock out dress that she always feels beautiful in no matter where she’s going or what she is doing.
Would your ideal night be going out or staying in?
I love having people over to my apartment for dinner parties or movie night, everyone feels at home there. I do also love to go out dancing every now and then though…
What was your favorite part of designing your apartment?
I loved scrolling through all of the listings on 1st dibs.
Created in 1983 by owner Carole French, Magic Windows has grown into a fixture on Manhattan’s upper east side. It is located on Madison Ave between east 86th and 87th streets where it has been for over 30 years.
“I love this store! They always have beautifully made dresses and darling boys clothes on hand. Very traditional and well made. My daughter and I were recently there and purchased some precious little jumpers for a friend of hers that has an upcoming birthday. Gift Wrap is available which is always a bonus.”
This charming store has the largest and finest collection of classic children’s clothing and accessories for boys and girls, newborn to teen. Warm and welcoming, Magic Windows’ friendly staff is always happy to help you.
Tartine et Chocolate … Once upon a time there was …
a desire to surround tiny babies in comfort and dress little children in tender, chic, yet unpretentious clothing, Catherine Painvin founded Tartine et Chocolat in 1977. The exclusive Garda motif and Tartine et Chocolat stripe set the tone for the brand. It was a mini-revolution that succeeded in shaking the children’s fashion market to the core.
The brand went on, in its own time, to develop its product ranges of soft toys, fragrances, children’s bedroom furniture, etc.., and soon established itself as a leader in the high-quality children’s gift market.
The woman responsible for this renaissance, Emilie Zannier, gave Tartine et Chocolat a unique, contemporary interpretation. She rewrote the history book, giving it a new, original and uncompromising twist, establishing a timeless modernity for the brand. She successfully created a fantasy world in which to dramatize the new Tartine et Chocolat collections. www.tartine-et-chocolat.fr
Before having children I originally trained as a psychologist, and then fell into a career in headhunting. Eventually I craved a change in my professional life, so I went back to university to continue my studies, taking an MSc in Mental Health Studies, but all the while a passion for children’s fashion was growing. I started bringing back Spanish clothing and accessories for my London friends on my visits home, and also developed relationships with various designers in Spain. While preparing for the birth of my fifth child in 2012, I thought it was time to follow my passion. “Now or never” I thought to myself and La Coqueta was born – my sixth baby you might say!
I feel there is a need for traditional, timeless fashion for children which also incorporates a chic and contemporary style for our modern world. I have found this with the Spanish designers I work with and can wholeheartedly say all the collection is ‘Proudly made in Spain’. Our clothing and shoes are beautifully made, functional and hard-wearing. As a mother of five, I know how important it is to find easy care clothes that stand the test of time, can be passed on to the next baby and still look great.
La Coqueta’s beginnings are close to home. I opened the first boutique in the heart of Hampstead, my much loved neighbourhood, where I can do something I truly love while still being close to the people who inspired my new business – my family and friends.
So if you are in the area, pop in with your little ones (who can enjoy our playroom) while we show you the new collection. If you are further afield, then simply browse our range on-line.
La Coqueta is nestled in North London but is ‘Proudly made in Spain’.
Brooks Brothers is known for Classic Clothing and Apparel. It is a great store for children and I especially like it for boys….however you can certainly leave with something for the entire family.
I adore their sport shirt, which is crafted in cotton with forward point collars and barrel cuffs. The shirts are machine washable, which is always a plus.
Brooks Brothers is the oldest men’s clothier chain in the United States and is head quartered on Madison Avenue, New York City. Notable alumni include Ralph Lauren who started out as a salesman there….and Brooks Brothers is the official clothier of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
While strolling down King Street in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, my daughter and I discovered the cutest little children’s boutique called Sugar Snap Pea. The clothes are playful yet traditional and the boutique is stocked with fabulous accessories. We left with so many goodies in hand…a must if you are visiting this charming Southern City.
“Sugar Snap Pea is your destination for fresh and fun children’s clothing in Downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant. We aim to provide our customers with the highest quality of modern children’s clothing, gear and accessories.Stop by one of our two locations today for a delightful shopping experience!
We make every effort to carry a wide range of products in store and online. However, if you are looking for a product online that you cannot find, please do not hesitate to give us a call! We happily offer concierge shopping services for our out-of-state customers.” www.sugarsnappea.com
A gorgeous floral top by Sugar Snap Pea….Charleston’s premiere children’s boutique.
Sugar Snap Pea – fun children’s clothing!
Beautiful dresses – the Tea Elfengarten Sash Dress, the CP Wrap Dress & the CP Crystal Dress.
The Best Dressed Child…..a wonderful on-line store hailing from Alpharetta, Georgia. Southern girls really know how to do smocking right, this store has the cutest….and I mean the cutest little play dresses and seasonal attire for children! I just purchased this adorable swimsuit ensemble for Hyacinth, and beach accessories galore! When my son was little he wore all the darling smocked outfits as well, complete with Peter Pan collars.
Spring Flowers is one of my favorite children’s boutiques. The clothing is classic in design and the selection of shoes for little boys is amazing….when my son was beginning to walk I found the little traditional boots perfect for ankle support. Party dresses are a must here…my daughter delights in the variety and I love the quality of fabrics and beautiful designs. This is a store for both boys and girls….I practically live at the 73rd and Madison location….however, there are many more. Stop in and enjoy!
“Since 1983, Spring Flowers has offered only the finest luxury European clothing, shoes and accessories for babies and children up to size 14 years.”
Created in 1983 by owner Carole French, Magic Windows has grown into a fixture on Manhattan’s upper east side. It is located on Madison Ave between east 86th and 87th streets where it has been for over 30 years.
