"I do not know a woman who is one single size."
Preach, Cyril Verdavainne!
Born in Casablanca, Verdavainne learned the art of couture design from some of the greats, starting his career with French fashion houses Balmain and Thierry Mugler. He then spent 15 years as right-hand designer to Carmen Marc Valvo.
In 2018, Verdavainne set out on his own and made a critical decision to focus on special occasion dresses with real women in mind. "Not about the runway, not about size 2-4. It was about every day women interested in looking good in what they wear and finding someone who can actually dress them for their shape, size, proportion."
You can shop the Verdavainne collection like any other fashion brand, but every dress is made to measure and can be customized — an added sleeve, a different bow or fabrication. This level of design and service comes at a premium: dresses start at $3,500. It's an investment, but less than you might spend on a designer brand at a department store — and that's without the bespoke service.
"It's a little bit more interesting to get involved with the woman who has reached a certain age," Verdavainne says, "to get the story behind her lifestyle, and where she's going."
His advice to new clients: "Come to me with the truth. I want to know what concerns you, and take the headache off your shoulders."
Verdavainne gowns are memorable and thoughtful — with cinches and draping in just the right places to make women feel gorgeous. Vibrant colors and unexpected prints are a signature, but you'll also find architectural silhouettes in champagne or solid black.
"I really want the kids to say, 'Look at how good mom looks!'" Verdavainne says. "We're here for that.'"
A few designs that had us swooning at Verdavainne's recent trunk show at Printemps New York:
You can make an appointment at the Verdavainne atelier in New York or shop the designs through select boutiques and online.