Special Guest Contributer: Pauline Durban, President/Founder of Covered Perfectly |
"You know the feeling. You are looking for something to wear to a party, and nothing works. Standing in front of the mirror, with a pile of clothes on the bed, can be the most frustrating experience. But believe me…it’s not you, it’s your clothes!" ~Pauline Durban
I was frustrated because the sleeves were too short to cover that part of my arms that I’d rather not reveal, or the body wasn’t long enough to cover my tummy. It seemed that no one designed clothes for me.
Everyone assured me that I looked great, but ultimately it came down to how I felt about my own body. I wanted clothes that made me feel beautiful and empowered, but it was impossible to find women’s tops that would do the job.
When I discussed this with my friends, I discovered that I wasn’t the only one with this challenge. They were all facing the exact same issues. In fact, I can almost see you nodding your head! I know that you can relate. No doubt, you have had a hard time finding comfortable, stylish clothes as well.
Why should I settle on the dismal styles available? Taking matters into my own hands I began to design a collection of tops made of delicious fabrics, in flattering silhouettes and lovely colors, and of course, featuring pieces that provided perfect coverage.
Gathered Front soft luxurious Micromodal Top in Blue |
After researching numerous fabrics and blends, my search led me to MicroModal, a natural fabric made from the fiber of the European Beechwood. Breathable, and luxuriously soft, MicroModal is a fabric that will keep you cool, and not just when the weather is warm! Once you feel it on your skin, you will know why this is the main fabric used.
It also was important to me that my designs be made in the USA, and I’m proud to say they are. My line is cut, sewn and beautifully put together for you in sunny Los Angeles!
Covered Perfectly launched in May 2013, offering a dozen designs for every occasion, for every time of day and for every month of the year. At 57, I have started a company that I can be proud of. I’m excited to get my fabulous tops onto all the real women over 40 who also want to be Covered Perfectly!
Left: Simple Comfort Micromodal Top in Gray Right: Gathered Front Micromodal Top in Animal Print |
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: (5 Minutes with Pauline and a Peek Behind the Brand!)
(1) Ascending Butterfly is an empowerment community, throughout the years we have queried readers about what butterflies mean to them, I noticed immediately you use a butterfly on your site and in your logo (which of course I love) why a butterfly? What do they represent to you?
Answer: It was important that my logo reflected the idea that women truly become more beautiful with age. The butterfly is a symbol of metamorphosis that represents both maturity and magnificence. Age isn’t just about wisdom…it’s about beauty on every level! ~Pauline Durban
(2) Your tops definitely take away that 'I have nothing to wear' factor, so what about pants or dresses?
Answer: It’s wonderful that my designs are working for so many women! I absolutely see dresses in the very near future. We have a few designs in the works that could be introduced as early as Christmas. We are also designing a couple of really fun wraps for the colder weather. As far as pants go, I would love to design a really great legging that has the proper thickness and support. Most leggings fall short, and tend not to be an option for the more mature woman. I’m still thinking on that one!
(3) As a relatively new line, what has been your biggest challenges so far? How have you overcome them?
Answer: Starting an online business is like opening a store in the middle of a desert…no one knows it’s there! Finding the right places to promote my line has been the greatest challenge. I’ve worked very hard to find companies that truly care about the business, and see the big picture. In the process, I have met some amazing women who will continue to be a part of this journey. As a result, we have been able to provide a wonderful product, and make it available to the right demographic. It’s a great feeling to have repeat customers…and we have quite a few. It makes it very clear that we are giving women what they want!
(4) In that vein, Fashion and Accessories go hand in hand, any plan to offer Accessories that you design down the line?
Answer: I agree…accessories are very important. As my business continues to grow, anything is possible. For now, I am putting my effort into designing more clothing. It is important for me to be very “hands-on” in developing pieces that really work, and this takes time and care. So, accessories may have to wait for a bit!
(5) Will we see Covered Perfectly in retail stores anytime soon?
Answer: At this time, I have no plans of introducing my line into retail stores, primarily because keeping the prices down for my customers is extremely important to me. By designing, manufacturing and selling directly, I am able to do this. I have been approached by boutique retailers who would like to carry my line, however, for now I’m saying no, but…never say never!
Get Social With It:
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -Follow @Covrdperfectly via Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -"Like" The Covered Perfectly Facebook Page
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with Covered Perfectly via Pinterest too!
Nab a Discount:
Ascending Butterfly subscribers can receive a 20% discount off of their first purchase. Plus, shipping is FREE, both ways. Just use AB20 at checkout at: www.coveredperfectly.com
Additional Ways to Score: Join the Covered Perfectly Rewards Program + there is a current special for those buying two tops on Facebook, so use the get social section to head over to Covered Perfectly's Facebook Page for more information. So including the exclusive code for Ascending Butterfly you currently have 3 different ways to update your wardrobe at a price that certainly won't break the bank!
What are you waiting for Butterflies, Go nab the softest, coziest Blouse you'll ever wear (Yes I'm wearing them now and will have a full review for you soon!), at a GREAT price, from a woman-owned small business owner, the fact that she loves butterflies like we do, is just a bonus!
FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Guest Post by a Contributor, Ascending Butterfly enjoys profiling and supporting woman owned businesses. And anyone who loves butterflies as much as we do, is OK with us! See our Full Giveaway & Disclosure Page for full policy information.