Interview with fashion designer Monif C.

OK kiddies. Here it is. I have not yet replaced my digital camera-to-laptop cord so I am just going to let you have it and I will add the pics to Flickr soon. When you ask? I said soon! Damn woman why do you have to get all up in my face about it?!

Eh hem... And so here is my interview with the fantabulous Monif C.
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Driving south on the Taconic towards New York City and I am in heaven. It's a glorious sunny spring day. Delicate clouds in the sky look like they were painted and hung in place on a perfect blue background. What better day than today to meet with the fabulous Monif C. and discuss the glamorous life of fashion industry trend setter, her brilliant fashion line for full-figured women, her decision to open a boutique in the heart of New York City's garment district, and boys. Oh yes, certainly we must discuss boys!

Monif reclines on a gold chair looking every part the fashion icon when I walk into her office. The space is cozy and elegant. Monif tells me that she decided to move her office from New Jersey to the garment district of New York City so that she could be closer to all facets of the production of her line. Aside from some of her fabrics, which are imported, every aspect of her line is made in the U.S.A. “My patterns are cut right around the corner. Every part of my line is made within walking distance. This way I can watch each step of the production. Also, if a customer needs something custom or altered we can handle it very quickly.” Monif takes great pride in the superb customer service she offers. “It’s the foundation of my business.”

Clothing racks line the walls with beautiful clothes that make me want to strip and start trying things on immediately. But I restrained myself until the end of our interview. There is also jewelry made by a designer creating custom pieces for fuller figures as a boutique exclusive. Personally I really appreciate it when a long necklace lands either above or beyond my bust. When the chain falls right into my cleavage . . . well it’s not really the desired effect now is it?

And yes, we did in fact talk about boys. Mostly I talked about my husband. We’re still newlyweds, you know. I intended to get all kinds of personal information about Monif’s love life and tell you all about it here but honestly, once I start talking about my big hunk of man I lose my train of thought. Where was I? Oh right, the interview!

Monif told me that as long as she continues to get her clothes in front of the people, then the people will continue to appreciate what she is doing. She isn’t very concerned about seeing her name on the racks in big department stores. It would be nice, yes. But what is really important to her is that she wants you to know that she designs just for you.

Monif has the eye of a sculptor when it comes to fashion design. She chisels fabric to enhance a woman's natural curves with the use of darts in all the right places. Knowing that if the dress leaves your body at the bosom then there must be a way to bring it back in to embrace the waist and so, when I finally had my chance to try on the very same dress that Monif designed exclusively for Queen Latifah (and worn once by her Majesty) I was the recipient of that artistry. Monif’s creations floated on my body with ease, without restraints and in harmony with my curves. Wearing Monif’s clothing is a divine experience.

Monif C. Plus Sizes New York Boutique Store located at 325 W. 38th Street, Suite 1007 New York, NY 10018. For store hours call 1 (212)842-1641