“I’m very unstable”, explained Renee Marciel. Machines “make me nervous” and she could hardly sew. Yet, Renee Marciel ended up being an incredibly successful force in fashion and one of the most unconventional designers of the 1950s Miami scene.
Marciel was an eccentric. She sketched most of her designs from her swimming pool (experience derived from sketching out what she wanted her dressmakers to make for herself), she despised pastels (which were so big at the time)- and wouldn’t touch them. She ignored trends. She found American fashion (having grown up in France) “skimpy and out of style”. She had more nerve than actual talent- but being able to sketch , Marciel created a coveted label completely on her own. She made 6 samples from fabric she purchased for retail value and was scared to death when she got her first order. She couldn’t sew! She hired a girl to sew for her and business slowly blossomed from there. Living in Miami, Marciel designed “Resort” collections utilizing a strict color palate of white, naturally and bright shades of orange, gold, blue & green.
So guess what? Marciel’s step-daughter found my friend, who owns a boutique, and has shared with her the archives of her step-mother, which consist of sketches, patterns and clothing from Marciel’s gorgeous, form-fitting flamboyant label. I shan’t give too much away but I will say that I am going to be involved in a Renee rebirth of some sense. My excitement is beyond words and I can’t wait to begin!
*Renee Marciel is pictured above in her own black & white polka dot design.
Feb 23, 2010, 03.06 AMby mlssfshn
Wow, what an incredible woman. Can’t wait to see your follow up.
Feb 19, 2010, 04.00 PMby tammar-1
The article is short, but interesting. Despite the fact the woman described is very interesting figure, of course. I wonder who the girl was, who was sewing the clothes. These people are always in the shadow…
1 Reply
Feb 22, 2010, 06.21 PMby burdastyle
I will make sure to inquire about that- ultimately Marciel had a factory like most other design houses, with various employees sewing up her garments.
Feb 17, 2010, 09.15 PMby Ricardo Abreu
Do to I’m from Miami, I would like to find out more about her and what she did. I’m in love w this fashion period. If you need extra help in the rebirth proses I’ll be more than happy to participate My e-mail: abreualfonso@hotmail.com
1 Reply
Feb 22, 2010, 06.21 PMby burdastyle
Sadly, there is not much information about Renee Marciel published online- I will update you when the interview my friend is conducting with her step-daughter comes out. I am so excited to learn more.
-alison
Feb 17, 2010, 10.40 AMby skwarynia
Wow that’s great! So again the world is small:) Please share with us:)
Feb 17, 2010, 06.14 AMby amandahaas
love her