SouthFlorida.com | City Link Magazine

Whenever Janelle Funair and Rodrigo Londo�o tell people their clothing line is named Orangia, they have to explain that they don't just make orange clothing. Londo�o, who is from Colombia, and Funair, who is of Italian descent, called their label Orangia because the color orange is symbolic of a joyful aura. They also wanted to pay tribute to their heritage and combine the Italian word for orange, arancio, with the Spanish word for it, naranja. Orangia's clothes are mainly cream, mint and black in color.

"Our clothes are about feeling your best," Funair says. "We named our line Orangia because when a woman is happy, her aura is orange."

Made strictly from breathable fabrics such as silk, voile or cotton-spandex, none of the pieces is too fitted. They're specifically made to look good on a variety of body types.

"I like mixing vintage elements with a modern edge," Funair explains. "And I try to create looks that have versatility for each customer."

Funair and Londo�o, who are both 29, are inspired by the delicate dresses and tops of the 1920s and '40s. Most of their garments reflect elements of that time period. However, unlike most vintage-inspired garments, these pieces are fashionable with a more-functional fit.

"I like Orangia because of its unique look and its easy-to-wear, flowing form," says Lauren Goldfarb, owner of the Miami boutique Lavish, which carries the line. "We sell it pretty well. Lots of people try Orangia on."

Londo�o, who also works as a graphic artist, designs artwork and embroidery for the pieces. For their latest collection, he made a delicate, fish-scale pattern that produces an eye-catching texture on the fabric. His analytic approach to fashion design is rarely found within the clothing industry. "When designing buildings, you always start with a concept," he says. "We design our clothing the same way."

While the energetic pace of living in Miami influences Funair's designs, Londo�o is primarily inspired by his mentor, South Florida architect Chad Oppenheim. "I credit Chad and Ilona Oppenheim for [my] learning design, as well as how to successfully do business and create a company," Londo�o says.

The duo's designs recently caught the attention of department store Neiman Marcus, which now carries the line at its locations in Boca Raton, Palm Beach and Coral Gables, along with others in California, Nevada and Texas. Locals can also find the line at Julian Chang in Miami Beach, Steam in Miami, Cybele in Coral Gables, A Style Is Born in Fort Lauderdale, the Doral Golf Resort and Spa, and other stores. The design duo has recently branched off into creating custom wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and spawear.

Ultimately, Funair and Londo�o want women to feel comfortable wearing Orangia's garments. Funair says, "My whole line is about looking timeless and feeling great about yourself."

For more information call 888/672-6442 or visit Orangiausa.com.