Raw Honey
California Market Center,Suite B890 (323) 796-0442
Vibrant color is the basis of Marco Marquez’s latest juniors collection, Raw Honey. It’s also the dominant force behind his new showroom, which opened in October, five months after the debut of his nascent line.
Flamboyant hues define each wall in his compact space. Mustard yellow on one side complements the jungle green of another that is juxtaposed against a wall of pinkish lavender. An eclectic assortment of furniture ranges from a Victorian couch to an Oriental vase and Belle Eacute;poque gold mirror to keep the showroom lively.
The sea of color and design goes with the edgy, fashion-forward look encapsulated in the wide range of pieces with wholesale prices that range from $6 to $18. “For Spring 2010, we have a bright story and a pastel story,” Marquez said, explaining his designs are geared for the woman between the ages of 18 and 35.
Hanging on the racks are tropical floral leggings, knit tops and sequined skirts. There are ladylike lace-topped dresses and trendier frocks made of plaid fabric. Fitted jackets hang in one corner.
This is not Marquez’s first venture into the juniors market. From 2001 to 2003, he was the force behind Verde, which he closed to move to India and work in design and merchandising for a label called Passport.
But he couldn’t stay away from the juniors world and partnered with Ramin Mokhtarzadeh, who also operates a company called L.A. Knitworks, to form Raw Honey.
Mokhtarzadeh handles production while Marquez heads up design and sales. They are manufacturing in Los Angeles, China and India. Already the line is being sold to retailers such as The Wet Seal; Mandee; Sears; and Heritage 1981, a division of Forever 21.—Deborah Belgum
