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NEW & NOTEWORTHY

Markarian is the Fashion Label for All Dreamy Occasions

August 22, 2019

Nicky Campbell

Shopping for a wedding is hard, to say the least – just ask the guests.

Festivities extend far beyond the ceremony itself – from rehearsal dinners to engagement parties – and each of the seemingly countless events requires a look that is on point and in style. When Alexandra O’Neill found herself struggling to dress for every occasion in her sister’s wedding years ago, she set out to solve the problem.

Since launching the label Markarian two years ago, women have been quick to respond. Within the first week, O’Neill’s designs landed on Emma Roberts on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Soon after, Moda Operandi jumped at the chance to launch the label with a two-year exclusive.

 

Emma Roberts enters the “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” wearing Markarian.

 

“It was the most perfect way to launch. I wasn’t expecting any of it. My goal for that year was to sell at Moda Operandi since they are my favorite retailer. They picked me up for the first collection,” O’Neill recalled.

After viewing the collection at the designer’s West Village apartment, which also doubles as her showroom, it’s easy to see just how the designer has garnered the attention of the industry. Produced in New York City’s Garment District, each design is created with an incredible level of craftsmanship and infused with a sense of luxury and romance – from intricate embroideries to ultra-fine fabrics, all intended to celebrate the special moments in your life.

“It’s really beautiful clothing that is easy to wear and doesn’t take itself too seriously, but isstill at that luxury price point and quality. These are no brainer pieces where you just know they are going to look good. You know its special,” said O’Neill.

 

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Markarian Resort 2020

 

The arts and interiors inform the designer, but the biggest inspiration is her grandmother, Gigi. She taught her how teaching her how to sew at a young age and instilled her with a love for design. To this day, Gigi remains her go-to for advice. “She’s lived with us since I was born, so she’s a huge part of my life. Everyone in my family is really excited for me,” she said.

Markarian shows great promise of becoming a serious lifestyle brand. O’Neill has already expanded into a bridal collection, accessories, and, most recently, homeware through a capsule with Christie’s. This marks a first time not only for the young designer, but also for the auction house.

 

Markarian x CeCe Barfield for Christie’s

Markarian x CeCe Barfield for Christie’s

Alexandra O’Neill and CeCe Barfield.

 

O’Neill teamed up with interior designer Cece Barfield Thomas (also her best friend from college), and the duo designed a line of dresses and homeware inspired by the summer Interiors auction, available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman next month.

“I’ve been really lucky so far. The challenge is always what to do next, growing organically, and keeping up with everything that’s going on,” she said. “You have to take it step by step and take it as you go. You just have to grow organically and not force things that don’t feel natural.”

 

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Markarian Bridal Spring-Summer 2020

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARKARIAN

Bergdorfs
Cece Barfield
Christies
Markarian
Moda Operandi
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