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The best designers you’ve never heard of.

Chic in the City
Jessica Ciarla’s eponymous New York–based collection is flirty, feminine, and eminently wearable.

Name: Jessica Ciarla
Age: 28
Business: Ciarla by Jessica Ciarla (Ciarla.com)
Location: New York City

How did you get your start in design?
I’ve always been interested in fashion. As a child, I would sketch clothing, drape fabrics, and play with my hair and makeup to create different looks. Later, I went to college in a small town where there weren’t many fashion options, so I decided that I needed to create them. I made eccentric faux-fur handbags and sold them to my friends and local boutiques on consignment. After college, I took classes at F.I.T. and Parsons, where I really learned how to sew.

Do you have a signature garment, and what are your price points?
The Princess Dress has been my most successful piece. It’s incredibly flattering on all figures, looks great in any color or print, and will continue to sell season after season. My dresses typically retail from $400 to $600, tops from $150 to $350, and bottoms from $150 to $300.

You’re currently selling your designs through exclusive boutiques and a handful of online sellers. What are your future plans in terms of distribution?
I just signed on with Los Angeles showroom Mary Brennan Inc., and together, we’re planning to bring the Ciarla collection to major boutiques nationwide. At the same time, I want to keep my collection somewhat exclusive. I don’t want it to become mass-produced because my customers are looking for unique items—not the same pieces everyone else is wearing.

And how would you describe the Ciarla customer?
Chic, adventurous, and confident. She appreciates well-made clothing, timeless styles, and designs that aren’t overpowering.

Are you also available for custom orders?
Yes, I do a lot of custom work. It’s the most rewarding part of the business because I get to learn about my customers and study the fit of my clothing. I’ve even designed wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses for several clients.

What sorts of pieces are you designing for 2006?
My spring collection includes some hand-beaded work that I’m really excited about. My creative vision hasn't changed since I started the brand, but now I’m adding more details and playing more with the fabrics. As always, I’m focused on using modern tailoring techniques to compliment a woman’s curves.

What’s your workspace like?
I just moved to Brooklyn, and I finally have a home office! I’m thrilled about the extra space and amazed at how many samples, fabrics, and patterns I’ve accumulated over the years. I conduct fittings and trunk shows out of my home, too.

Do you have any style icons or favorite designers?
I’m inspired by the classic chic of Audrey Hepburn, the sexy allure of Marilyn Monroe, and the glamour of New York City in ’50s and ’60s. In terms of designers, Givenchy, Balenciaga, Oscar de le Renta, and Narcisco Rodriguez are all major influences.

What do you envision for the brand in the future?
I want the line to be known for exquisite feminine dresses, impeccable fit, luxurious fabrics, and quality-made garments that are available at ready-to-wear prices. Whenever a woman needs a fabulous party dress, I want her to think of Ciarla.

The designer’s signature frothy frocks: the silk-chiffon-and-silk-charmeuse shirred Princess Dress (left, $495); and the tulle Party Dress (right, $835), which is boned and lined in silk-charmeuse.

Made from silk knit jersey and silk charmeuse, the halter-style champagne-and-black Jersey dress ($450) with twisted, knotted straps goes effortlessly from day to night.

Fashion designer Jessica Ciarla.

Photo Credits: Kristin Costello. Makeup: Jessica Rizzo.

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