SoCal Textile Importer Brings Business to Cyberspace
Designers looking for small quantities of novelty fabrics have a new resource online. Michael Shapiro, owner of Beverly Hills–based D&N Textiles, recently launched a new e-commerce site, TexStyles90210 (www.texstyles90210.com).
“It gives smaller designers a chance to buy designer fabrics at wholesale prices,” Shapiro said.
The Web site sells novelty fabrics in small quantities. Shapiro is planning to offer monthly specials and send e-mail announcements about new fabrics. Buyers can browse through TexStyles90210’s offerings and place an order by e-mail.
“They send me an e-mail, and they’ll get an answer within 24 hours,” Shapiro said.
Payment is taken through PayPal, and, for a fee, Shapiro will send swatches.
TexStyles90210 carries better novelty fabrics, including embroideries, laces, rigid and stretch fabrics, jacquards, and prints. Most are from China and Korea, but Shapiro also sources fabrics from Taiwan, Brazil, Turkey and Indonesia.
Shapiro started D&N Textiles 15 years ago after several years producing apparel for the juniors market under the Good Things label. For his textile business, he travels the world to source fabrics and original artwork for prints.
“I’m in the Orient at least two to three times a year and in Europe twice a year,” he said.
Although other Web sites, such as Fabric.com (www.fabric.com), sell fabric online, Shapiro said many offer only basic cottons and prints.
“There’s really nobody that does better novelties,” he said. “Everybody in the business is always looking for new customers. This is another way to get new business; it’s a way to reach customers I can’t find on my own.” —Alison A. Nieder
