By Amidst the bustling streets of New York City, the fashion label Markarian took center stage on Friday, unveiling a collection that seamlessly blended vintage aesthetics with contemporary flair. For designer Alexandra O’Neill, this marked a significant milestone as she made her debut at New York Fashion Week, showcasing a range of exquisitely crafted garments that captivated the audience at the iconic Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center.
Setting the Stage
Drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of the 1940s and a touch of disco glamour from the 1970s, O’Neill’s collection featured an array of puff-sleeve dresses and brocade ensembles, complemented by vibrant pastels and shimmering sequins. This momentous occasion came on the heels of O’Neill’s notable achievement earlier in the year when she crafted Jill Biden’s vibrant-blue coat for the presidential inauguration, catapulting her brand into the spotlight and igniting a surge in online traffic and social media engagement.
Reflecting on the journey leading up to the fashion show, O’Neill remarked, “It felt like a natural trajectory from the beginning of the year. It gives us a larger platform to present what we do in a more staged and exciting way.”
Behind the Scenes
While the runway dazzled with sophistication and style, the meticulous preparation behind the scenes was equally impressive. Days before the show, O’Neill embarked on a whirlwind day, offering a glimpse into the rigorous schedule leading up to the grand event.
Morning Rituals
With the dawn of a new day, O’Neill’s morning commenced with her cherished ritual of brewing coffee, indulging in an iced latte with oat milk prepared using her prized milk frother. Skipping breakfast, she delved into her routine, tackling emails while gearing up for the day ahead before making her way to the office nestled in the West Village.
The Fittings
Arriving at the office by 8 a.m., O’Neill and her dedicated team dove into preparations for model fittings, meticulously organizing racks of clothing and coordinating accessories to complement each ensemble. Renowned stylist Andrew Mukamal lent his expertise, fine-tuning the looks with his discerning eye for detail as fittings continued from dawn till dusk.
Hair and Makeup
As the day progressed, VIP guests streamed in for fittings, while O’Neill juggled press interviews amidst the bustling atmosphere. By 7 p.m., stylists commenced hair and makeup tests, perfecting the final touches to bring O’Neill’s vision to life on the runway.
The Culmination
As the clock struck 11 p.m., O’Neill retreated home, basking in the euphoria of a successful showcase. Exhausted yet exhilarated, she relished a moment of tranquility, unwinding with a late-night TV show before succumbing to sleep.
A Dream Realized
For O’Neill, the debut at New York Fashion Week marked the culmination of months of meticulous planning and unwavering dedication. Surrounded by a supportive team and awash with gratitude, she embraced the significance of the moment, eager to chart new horizons in the dynamic world of fashion.
As the curtains closed on a memorable evening, O’Neill’s journey served as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to one’s craft. With her distinctive vision and unyielding resolve, she continues to inspire aspiring designers to carve their paths and stay true to their creative vision.
