Marlene had an active design business in the fashion and accessories industry through the 80’s and 90’s.
As a freelance designer, she designed and often produced some of the projects you see here.
ZOTOS INTERNATIONAL
Zotos International is the world’s largest manufacturer of beauty salon products and a leader in hair styling.They commissioned me to design and produce salon capes for their trade shows around the world. I designed a modern cape in nylon with silver lame trim that could be rolled up, packed in a custom sized duffel bag with additional capes, and shipped internationally. Highly successful!
PIERRE CARDIN
Monsieur Pierre Cardin visited the Swank Showroom in NYC to view his Personal Leather Goods Collection that was designed under his license. I was very proud that he selected the leather group I designed and ordered 500 pieces for his Paris Boutique!
THE DANISH BOOKBAG
No! I did not design the Danish Bookbag with an expandable gusset, which I was told has been around since 1920. But I did painstakingly reproduced this bag for the wholesaler when an embargo prevented the importing of this product. We also made nifty pencil cases to coordinate.
FASHION PARTY NETWORK
This organization hosted parties in over 200 homes in upscale neighborhoods over America. I designed many bags for them including the South West look, fancy holiday, and animal. I connected them with contractors to work with.
CHRISTIAN DIOR
Christian Dior, New York, wanted a promotional gift idea.In addition to the totes, I designed a personal accessory organizer which could be also used for travel. I suggested the use of Dior fabric with a custom motif. Production was also arranged for them.
COOK’S ILLUSTRATED
In 1993, Cook’s Illustrated magazine was launched. Soon they wanted to develop a mail order clientele. We made aprons and various other soft items to compliment the cooking experience.