Couture: It's been reported that something like one percent of the world's population can afford to have beautiful designer creations fitted to their body. It is, one of the sad facts of modern style. However, there's a New York-based company who is changing that, one fabulous garment at a time. AprilMarin is a fashion line that takes the uniqueness of couture and makes it readily available to the public at an affordable price point. The company was launched in 2007 by design team April Bukofser and Marin Milio. It has been an Internet success ever since. "Our entire clothing concept is custom," explains Bukofser. "We believe that if something is made for you that you will look and feel beautiful. We give the customer the opportunity to choose her color. We also give the option of choosing her lining color. We do feature on our website a nice blend of color. Our most popular fun colors this season are cobalt blue and mimosa yellow. "
The AprilMarin look is a sexy, yet classy and ultra-feminine throwback to fashionistas of yesteryear. Each garment could easily have emerged from the creative minds of Edith Head or Ann Lowe. Bukofser admits to loving classic styles and silhouettes: "We are truly inspired by some of the great fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O. We have a great appreciation for what these women did for the fashion world and how they influenced what we wear today. We are thrilled to focus our research and design on these fabulous icons and reinterpret the most iconic wardrobe staples- the little black dress and the skirt suit. What we like most about these icons fashions are their simple classic lines and understated elegance." You'll find in this winning collection pieces that shine in an office setting, at various social events (like a wedding or dinner party) or even as casual wear for the girl about town. AprilMarin could be sported by a 20-something just starting out, or by a more established woman who knows and owns her fair share of labels but still wants something that expresses her individuality. Both Bukofser and Milio maintain that everyday women can and should own their pieces. Still, they have an eye on those celebrities who embody the spirit of their unique line. "We would love to dress Jennifer Aniston and Blake Lively ("Gossip Girls") in our classic silhouettes with feminine detail. [Both actresses'] classiness and understated elegance is what AprilMarin is all about." They are also inspired by one truly legendary purveyor of fashion. "Gabrielle “CoCo” Chanel deserves special recognition. Her dedication to style transformed the fashion world. Her classic, simple and timeless designs give AprilMarin inspiration. " As AprilMarin continues to expand its brand with new offerings (such as a line of skirts and several other designs), the company has also committed an extensive amount of time supporting some noteworthy causes. Recently, the house participated in a benefit supporting the Leukemia Society. "Marin’s Aunt passed away from Leukemia so when we heard about this event we knew it was something we had to support and participate in," explains Bukofser. "There was an overwhelming turnout and the event was a huge success in every aspect. We were honored to show our collection during the fashion show and donate a portion of all of our sales to the Leukemia Society. We love to support great causes that present us with the opportunity to give back." Along with its social responsibility and a clever business model, the minds behind AprilMarin are teaming with boutiques to propel its concept of made-to-order chic even further. But before a customer steps up to the plate to don one of these contemporary styles, she had better come equipped with the most important accessory a woman can have these days. "Confidence!" exclaims Bukofser. ¤
To learn more about AprilMarin or to place an order, click here.