Marlene Franke

The passion to craft impeccably made custom garments has been in my DNA since the age of 7 years old, when my mother would take me to a weekly sewing group in New Jersey to create suits and dresses together.

Today, I live in Chicago and run Marlene Atelier, where I design and craft custom-fitted and hand-tailored couture workwear for executive women.

It brings me more joy that I can express in words to create a garment for a woman that makes her look and feel empowered. Each client holds a special place in my heart not because of what I have given them, but what they have given me - the opportunity to create something beautiful.

I believe that all the combined experiences I have had in my life have lead me to this moment. Everything I do reflects a legacy that my mother started so many years ago and a passion that I had all but forgotten. I know I will do this for the rest of my life and plan on dying with a needle and thread in my hands.