c. marchuska Blog Has Moved!

Hi Everyone-

We have moved our blog to the following web address: http://cmarchuska.com/blog/

Be sure to check us out there and stay updated on the latest c. marchuska news, designer interviews and more!

XOXO
CMar

c. marchuska to participate at Stern's Think Social Drink Local on March 5th

I am very excited to continue in the spirit of unveiling the c. marchuska Fall/Winter 2010 collection at NYU's sustainable fashion show event, Think Social, Drink Local on Friday, March 5th. As a student in the Executive MBA program at Stern, it was very exciting to have the Luxury & Retail Club invite us to participate in this year's event. For the second year in a row... you can find 600 Stern students and local business supporters raising money and awareness for sustainable fashion in New York City. I wanted to highlight this wonderful article below, written by Rhaina Khumush for the Stern School of Business Opportunity Newspaper. Thank you for this lovely article Rhaina!! We can't wait!!

Sustainable Fashion: Defined

By: Raina Khumush

Issue date: 2/23/10

Andy Sachs: “It’s just that both those belts look exactly the same to me...I’m still learning about all this stuff.”

Miranda Priestly: This... ‘stuff’? You go to your closet and you select that lumpy blue sweater…But what you don’t know is that that sweater is not just blue, it’s not turquoise, it’s not lapis, it’s actually cerulean. You’re also blithely unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar De La Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns...and then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of eight different designers…it filtered down through the department stores, trickled on down into some tragic casual corner where you fished it out of some clearance bin. That blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and so it’s sort of comical how you think that you’ve made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you’re wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room.”

You undoubtedly recognize the above quote from the movie “The Devil Wears Prada” starring Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly and Anne Hathaway as Andy Sachs and you may be wondering how it relates to sustainability. Well, the last line sums up how the choices of top decision makers and designers in the fashion industry can affect the general public, for better or for worse (i.e. fleece lined crocs).

You may also be thinking that fashion is superficial and unimportant, but the numbers paint a somewhat different picture. More than 175,000 New Yorkers work in the industry, and more than $10 billion is traded per year in New York City alone. We are all affected by fashion trends whether we work in the industry or not, and an emerging trend is the reshaping of the traditional business model and development of strategies focused on sustainability. The recession has also played a large role in encouraging a shift in consumer preferences toward green products.

But before we can decide on which initiatives to pursue, let us first understand what sustainable fashion is. Depending on who ask sustainability in fashion can be characterized by any and all of the following attributes:
- Pesticide/chemical free fabrics
- Fair trade/fair labor practices
- Locally designed/produced apparel
- Reusable shopping bags
- Donating a portion of sales to non-profit organizations

The choices go on and on. Even within the realm of fabrics, the choices are virtually limitless. Traditional cotton production requires the use of thousands of chemicals and pesticides. Organic cotton is free of pesticides and chemicals, but cultivation and production still contribute to global warming. Bamboo fibers absorb greenhouse gases. Recycled, reclaimed, or vintage fabrics avoid cultivation altogether. Even if you‘ve switched to sustainable fabrics, there are still the matters of manufacturing and distribution. There have been controversies over the past decade about sweat shop conditions in factories and shipping requires consumption of fossil fuels and releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Going forward, in fashion or any other industry, there are complex decisions to be made. The important thing is that environmental and social issues remain in the forefront of our minds and we continually strive to find better solutions. Keep in mind also that this article doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of these complicated issues. Sustainability can be defined as the ability to endure. To endure indefinitely, companies need to implement a triple bottom line approach: people, planet, and profits.

To see more sustainable fashion trends, make sure you attend this year’s Think Social Drink Local event, hosted by the Social Enterprise Association. This year’s event takes place on Friday, March 5th at 8:00pm at the Altman Building (135 West 18th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues). The event features an eco-fashion show, Le Vie en Vert, presented by the Luxury & Retail Club. Le Vie en Vert brings apparel and accessories from local and eco-minded designers, including C. Marchuska, Posture Magnetic, Indego Africa and Garbage of Eden, to the Stern community. You can contact any board member of SEA or LARC for tickets.

c. marchuska Fashion Show at The GreenShows

Check out video coverage from our February 17th runway show at The GreenShows (www.thegreenshows.com). This collection is inspired by the concept of east coast rocker chic combined with the ideals of sustainability and sophistication.

Spring/Summer 2010 Photo Shoot

Check out our Spring/Summer 2010 photo shoot video here.

Brad Pitt rumored to have worn the Hunter Scarf

If you guess Brad Pitt as the A-List celebrity that was rumored to have been wearing the Hunter Scarf, then you guessed correct. With the upcoming holiday season there is no better time to purchase the Hunter Scarf as a treat to yourself or to that special someone.

Click here to watch the power of the Hunter Scarf.

Which A-list celebrity was rumored to be wearing the cmarchuska Hunter Scarf?

Last year during the holiday season an A-list celebrity was seen wearing the cmarchuska signature Hunter Scarf, can you guess who it is?

As you take a guess or google it watch the power of the cmarchuska Hunter Scarf here.

WINTER MUST HAVE: cmarchuska signature Hunter Scarf

If you are living in New York then you have been enjoying the fab fall weather these past two days...but don't be fooled winter is on its way. Don't forget to unpack all your winter must haves, one of them being the signature cmarchuska Hunter Scarf. The long unisex Hunter Scarf is made of organic bamboo. It is a winter must have accessory for the stylish and socially conscious individual.

To shop online visit cmarchuska.

PARTY MUST: The Little Black Dress

LINDSEY DRESS

The perfect party dress of : 50% cotton and 50% modal fabric. Inspired and designed by Lindsey Bagg. Made with care in New York's Garment District, USA. Available only in noir black.

Shop now at cmarchuska.

What's all the buzz about organic bamboo?

Organic bamboo is made from fibers of bamboo grass and is processed organically with the least amount of waste. Due to its fast growth rate (1-3 feet every 24 hours) it is one of the most renewable resources on earth. cmarchuska is dedicated to using the highest quality eco-friendly fabrics and bamboo is one of our favorites. The fabric is deliciously soft, it is like a blend of silk and cashmere. It is also anti-bacterial and has qualities that keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It is such a great fabric and you will definitely see it in the cmarchuska Spring/Summer 2010 collection.

As you wait for the Spring/Summer 2010 collection you can purchase cmarchuska dresses that are made from organic bamboo. Visit our website.

NEW cmarchuska SPRING/SUMMER 2010 COLLECTION IS FOR THE WOMAN ON THE GO!

New York - September 06, 2009 – cmarchuska, the New York based, eco-chic, women’s clothing line, is getting ready to launch its Spring/Summer 2010 collection. The Spring/Summer 2010 line is the first collection by cmarchuska’s Head Designer, Mignonne Gavigan. Gavigan, a graduate from the Parsons School of Design and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is an extremely talented designer. She has worked for esteemed designers, Marc Jacobs, Asprey, and FORM, and brings a fresh look to cmarchuska and green clothing.

Christine Marchuska, Creative Director and Founder of cmarchuska says, “working with Gavigan was inspirational. She took my concepts and brought them to a new light by blending sophistication with edginess.” Marchuska states that she is elated for the new collection’s photo shoot, which is slated for Saturday, October 10, 2009. The photo shoot will be an enthralling experience, where Marchuska can watch the vision that she articulated be translated into works of art. She acknowledges that the photo shoot would not be possible without her dedicated team: Erik Dong (photographer), Julia Cairo (stylist), Peter Lam (hair), Jonathan Monina and Sean Cunningham (videography), cosmetics provided by E.L.F, and hair products provided by KMS California.

Marchuska says, “this new collection is sustainable fashion for the woman on the go.” As always, the pieces in this collection are named after her family and friends who serve as sources of inspiration. Pieces from the new line include, Diane, Tia, Julia, Jen, Roli, CJ, Elisabeth, and Rebecca. Rebecca, Marchuska’s friend and entrepreneur, says, “the ‘Rebecca’ is scrumptiously easy to wear, and its classic, elongated lines are timeless. It is simply chic while fantastically figure forming. Wear it casually or dress is up with a belt, jewelry, or scarf and you are ready to go from morning until night!”

The Spring/Summer 2010 cmarchuska collection is a must see. As always, cmarchuska will deliver affordable, yet stylish, clothing, which can be worn straight from the workplace to a night out on the town. For more information, check out cmarchuska online at www.cmarchuska.com or at Montmartre, Columbus Circle, New York and various other boutiques.

About cmarchuska:

cmarchuska is a chic and sophisticated, eco-friendly clothing line that was launched in November 2008 by Christine Marchuska. The line is manufactured in NYC's garment district, and each piece uses the highest quality sustainable fabrics, designed to fit you better.

WANTED: Pictures of yourself in cmarchuska clothing!

If you have a picture/s of yourself in cmarchuska clothing please send it/them to us, we would love to post the pictures on our Facebook Fan page.

New cmarchuska associate.

I would just like to introduce myself, my name is Angeline, I am a recent Cornell University graduate and the newest member of cmarchuska. I am excited to join the team, and eager to help the brand grow. I've joined at an exciting time (I'm sure it's always exciting), cmarchuska is getting ready to launch its Spring collection, and we are preparing for our photo shoot. This will be my first photo shoot and am psyched!! I would say the new collection is sophisticated, versatile, and a bit edgy. I am sure you'll love it as much as I do!!

Don't forget to check out our website www.cmarchuska.com for current sale items.

Bastille Chic oh oui!

Being French I am really excited about the upcoming cmarchuska fashion show hosted by Planete Chic in Washington DC next weekend - Bastille Chic! Christine is a revolutionary herself in the world of eco-fashion and her French motto "Vivons Vert" is perfectly in tune with the francophone spirit of this event sponsored by France-Amerique, FranceToday and the Alliance Francaise in DC.

Thanks to Planete Chic there will be French DJs and artists' exhibit, drinks, as well as a great ambiance, which will highlight "le défilé de mode" of the cmarchuska collection, all that in the historic Darlington House, a gorgeous Victorian row house in the heart of DC's old district.

The dress code is chic of course, and there is only a 10$ cover when registered on the guest list (we're expecting a big crowd so please come early!). For more info and the detailed course of the evening here is the facebook link to the event: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/event.php?eid=104394126229

Allons enfants de la patrie, le jour de gloire est arrivé : cmarchuska part à la conquête de la capitale!

See you all there et bisous :-)

New Introductions

Hello everyone! My name is Philicia, and I’m the new intern at cmarchuska. I’ll be working with Christine for two months in the city, as part of the Cornell Urban Summer program.

This past month I’ve gotten the chance to see so much- apart from familiarizing myself with the garment district, running between the tailor and Christine’s new showroom: The greenshowroom NYC; I’ve had the opportunity to meet with many of Christine’s friends in the fashion realm at trunk shows and events.  There are numerous projects in July, one fashion show in D.C. and the other in New York. Also, we got our first order at Montmarte, as we celebrate our first breakaway from eco-friendly boutique stores to the mainstream high-end market!

In addition to all this, it has been a great experience learning the art of marketing and pr-related work online to help promote the amazing cmarchuska line. I look forward to another fun-filled month with Christine. As Christine always says: “Don’t give up before the miracle happens!” I believe that the cmarchuska line will see its miracle in no time. :)

cmarchuska @ NYC Green Room Trunk Show on 24th June

Hark all thee earth-friendly fashionistas!

The Green Room, cmarchuska's official showroom on the East coast, is having a trunk show this Wednesday, the 24th. And yes, you guessed it, among the fantastic selection of trend savvy eco designers you will find our very own cmarchuska collection at special prices.

So mark this day in your iphone/blackberry/google calendar or little classic notebook, and see ya there!

What a night!

Thank you to everyone who came out last night to our fabulous eco trunk-show! Because of your green support - Kaight boutique was absolutely buzzing with the cmarchuska vibe. The rainbow of colours from the new super soft summer hunter scarves was definitely eye-catching and everyone wanted to wear one. The new cranberry hue Christine added to the palette had my thumbs up! The dresses and tees were a hit as usual as I heard many exclamations of "Oh this fabric is fantastic!"

Those delicious cuca fresca caipirinhas, shaken not stired by our bartender, had everyone chatting and having a good time... Your eavesdropping spy can also reveal to you this exciting exclusive news: cmarchuska will be using bamboo very soon to create an even greater variety of texture in those sustainable designs that you love!

cmarchuska trunk show - June 4th @ Kaight boutique

We know you’ve been eagerly waiting for this special event! Christine will be showcasing her cute designs at chic eco-boutique Kaight this Thursday. Remember that adorable dress and scarf of your dreams that you spotted at the Vivons Vert fashion show or on http://www.marchuska.com/? The good news is you will be able to purchase those for a friendly, sustainable price ;-)

And as if this weren’t enough, complimentary cocktails and wine will be served to accompany your happy shopping.

You don’t want to miss this!

When: 6-9 pm.
Where: Kaight – 83 Orchard Street, NYC

All dressed up in cmarchuska for Save the Eggs Benefit

Tia Walker's Save the Eggs benefit was a smashing success! We had a great time. The gracious hostess and several guests donned some of the new designs by cmarchuska, and were much complimented as they chatted, gushed over the luxe goodie bags and sipped on champagne. Christine's LBDs proved again how they make perfect little cocktail dresses while being easy-to-wear for any night out on the town, as the party later moved from the swanky Club Williams to a friendly pub next door. Photos by Amber De Vos PMC

On the photo from left to right : Monika dress, Alison dress, Lindsey Leigh dress & Robin dress.

Save the Eggs Benefit Cocktails 05/13

Philanthropy is very dear to us at cmarchuska – 5% of all our proceeds goes out to Safe Horizons, a NY charity dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence. Christine is also constantly involved in a number of other organisms, lending her name and influence towards forwarding various charitable causes. You too can help!

Celebrity blogger and fashionista Tia Walker will be co-chairing the Save the Eggs Benefit Cocktails on Wednesday, May 13th at The Williams Club located at 24 East 39th street. This is a fundraiser for a very noble cause, i.e. raising awareness on the issue of egg harvesting and raising funds to financially help women unable to cover the expense of saving their eggs when faced with the possibility of infertility due to chemotherapy - specifically in the treatment of Breast Cancer.

Christine Marchuska is on the host committee of this important philanthropic event and we encourage you to come party with us, while making a change! Tickets are $80 per person and guarantee you an exclusive evening sipping Veuve Clicquot (my favorite champagne!) and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres – and if that was not enough, deluxe gift bags will be handed out. Hope to see you there :-)

Film Benefit Fundraiser 05/12

Mark your calendars, for some high-end events are coming up and we’re letting you in the know!

We are proud to announce cmarchuska is a sponsor of the Film Benefit Fundraiser organized by Liam McMullan and Victor Medina-San Andres on Tuesday May 12, at the swanky Hudson Terrace roof deck lounge. Christine and Victor are both super creative and energetic in their own careers, and it is great to witness such friendly and professional collaboration :-)

This cool high-end event is to benefit the film "Followed", which is to go into principal photography in June 2009. Curious to know more? Well according to organizer and film expert VMS: “ ‘Followed’ is a story of redemption and love's lost within yourself, starring Liam McMullan...character driven with only two lead actors and high visual storytelling.” Sounds exciting!

Anyone who has partied with Victor knows this will definitely be a blast. 2 hour open-bar, scrumptious food and sorbets, luxury gift bags worth $1200 for any generous benefactor of $250 or more… And really warm weather is expected for next week, so what can be better than a roof deck party with a nice crowd to enjoy spring in the city?

$35 suggested donation. Please RSVP @ modernloftnyc.com