New Designers at O'Neill
Irvine, Calif.–based surfwear manufacturer O’Neill has hired two new designers: Pat Fraley and Tonya La Barrie. The hirings are part of the company’s plan to refocus its casual and athletic apparel lines for young men, juniors and girls.
“Our primary focus here at O’Neill is to build killer product for our customers, who are getting younger and younger each year,” said O’Neill Clothing President Kelly Gibson. “I am excited about the new team of people in our merchandising and sales departments.”
As O’Neill’s menswear designer, Fraley will be responsible for designing a collection of woven tops for young men. Fraley founded Counter Culture, an urban label for young men and women, in the early 1990s. He served as brand director until last month and is still co-owner of the company, which is being licensed by a local apparel manufacturer.
“Becoming a menswear designer at O’Neill is too good an opportunity to pass up,” Fraley said. “O’Neill is an authentic surf brand with deep roots and heritage. There is enormous potential to do a lot of good things here.”
La Barrie, who will serve as juniors and girls merchandising director, will report to Gibson. The Laguna Beach, Calif.–based designer will be responsible for product design and will oversee production. La Barrie replaces Cyndi Carper. Previously, La Barrie designed junior and women’s apparel for Levi Strauss & Co., L.E.I. and Wet Seal.
“We have a strong and phenomenal team,” La Barrie said. “I am looking forward to making O’Neill a major player in the worldwide brand arena.”
Michelle Kosmerl-Devine has also joined O’Neill as sales manager for juniors, a newly added position reporting to Gibson. Kosmerl-Devine, who previously worked as sales manager for Dickies Girl, will be in charge of national sales for junior apparel.
“O’Neill is a solid brand in the surf market with an excellent reputation, and I’m so glad to be a part of the team,” Kosmerl-Devine said.
