Fashion designer Alexandra O’Neill likes to pair her It Girl crown with vintage sweaters worn over one of her richly textured Markarian dresses for a style that’s approachable, classic, and feminine.
A favorite of celebrities (more on that later) and women who appreciate the beauty of lush fabrics and timeless design with a twist, O’Neill is more than fashion’s current It Girl. She’s a Girl’s Girl, confirmed by not only her collection, but also her flock of friends and family who are always top of mind throughout the design process and her Instagram, which immediately feels sincere and full of authentic life moments.
The fabrics truly do require a moment to take in. Textures mingle with soft shapes and a mix of colors. O’Neil’s love affair with each piece starts at the beginning of the process, carrying through to the finished garment. Markarian is designed and produced in New York, but much of the fabric is sourced from France or Italy.
One of my favorite parts of designing is choosing fabric, and I also custom design a lot of fabrics, so I’ll do a custom bead worker embroidery every season, she says. I am the sole designer of Markarian, so time is limited. Now and then, maybe I’ve run out of time to do that, but I truly enjoy designing fabrics and picking fabrics.
Raised in Colorado, O’Neill was taught to sew at 10 by her grandmother Gigi. That gives her collection a deep personal connection. She admits to a "bit of a vintage problem," but it’s evident her love of the past influences the future. Dress shapes are flattering and bold, ideal for luncheons, cocktails, or a glamorous night out.
And the Girl’s Girl invisible thread? It’s there too.
When I launched the company, I was thinking about things I wanted to wear, things that my friends and mom wanted to wear, she says. I was making clothing for my grandmother so I try to keep those women in my life in mind. And they are the people I design for.
Markarian’s Hollywood Celebrity Love
Hollywood’s slew of It Girls have taken notice of Markarian. The golden list of celebrity devotees is who’s who that reads like a cover call sheet for Vanity Fair. Kate Hudson, Beanie Feldstein, Constance Wu, Felicity Jones, Kerry Washington, Laura Dern, Priyanka Chopra, and Lizzo are all among her devotees. Before flying to Houston Wednesday, O’Neil and her team dressed actress Emily Mortimer in the Allegra Silver Sequin Belted Duster for the 2024 Gotham Awards.
O’Neill’s most notable fashion date was January 20th, 2021, when First Lady Dr. Jill Biden wore a custom-made cerulean dress and tweed coat to President Joe Biden’s inauguration. Made in New York City’s Garment Center, the ensemble was an ode to American fashion, putting O’Neill squarely in the fashion consciousness.
The designer’s own closet is a mix of vintage finds and her own designs. With the holidays in full swing, she is looking forward to celebrating while decked out in the Farrah Gold Brocade Midi Dress.
It’s one of my personal favorites, O’Neill says. It has such a beautiful texture and sheen, and it’s very holiday appropriate without being too in your face. It feels good on and is wearable.
A shining, glowing dress, one of her current collection crushes? It’s a fitting favorite for a designer for whom the sky is the limit.
Conclusion:
Markarian’s success is a testament to O’Neill’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to creating pieces that women will love. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for beautiful textiles, O’Neill has built a brand that is both timeless and modern, classic and edgy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is Markarian?
A: Markarian is a fashion brand founded by Alexandra O’Neill, known for its beautiful textiles, timeless design, and commitment to quality.
Q: Who is Alexandra O’Neill?
A: Alexandra O’Neill is the founder and designer of Markarian, a fashion brand that has gained a following among celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Q: What is the inspiration behind Markarian’s designs?
A: O’Neill’s designs are inspired by her love of vintage fashion, her grandmother’s sewing skills, and her own desire to create clothes that women will love and feel good in.
Q: Who are some of Markarian’s celebrity fans?
A: Markarian fans include Kate Hudson, Beanie Feldstein, Constance Wu, Felicity Jones, Kerry Washington, Laura Dern, Priyanka Chopra, and Lizzo, among others.
