Tops With a Twist
With the success of shirt lines like Three Dots and C&C California, designer Farida Benderradji thinks the California woman can use another brand or two in her closet.
That’s one reason she launched Farida B., a tops line featuring 17 styles that wholesale for $25–$45.
Benderradji worked in Paris for several years but came to Los Angeles a couple of years ago. “It’s the best place to be,” she said.
When she started out in Los Angeles, she introduced white cotton and stretch-silk collared and cuffed shirts. The California customer did not respond well to the European silhouettes, so she retooled them and came up with a collection of soft fabric tops that reflect the “elegance, grace and sensuality within every woman.”
Benderradji uses a rayon-polyester-blend double-layer fabric that is lightweight and soft. “It’s like cashmere,” said the designer.
She offers a variety of cuts, including halters, tanks, tunics, scoop necks and V-necks with cap, three-quarter and long sleeves. Boa, charcoal, leek and sage are among the colors in her palette.
Many tops have metal- button embellishments, which contrast with the soft fabrics. Benderradji has also complemented the tops with sweat pants and some skirts.
“It’s casual and stylish at the same time,” she said. “It’s for a woman who is comfortable with her body.”
The line is now being sold in the Moda Style showroom, located in suite A349 of the California Market Center. For more information, call (213) 623-5040. —Robert McAllister
