Vaughan-Bassett launches new furniture line

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Vaughan-Bassett Furniture announced Monday that it will produce a new line of furniture created by noted designer Alexander Julian.

The announcement about the casegoods collection named “Authentically American” was made at a Monday news conference at Vaughan-Bassett’s Las Vegas Showroom.

"Our partnership is a unique collaboration between an American design icon and the largest manufacturer of wooden adult bedroom furniture in the United States," said Vaughan-Bassett president and chief executive officer Wyatt Bassett.

Julian said the first collection will be presented in April at the spring furniture market in High Point, N.C.

"We plan to introduce a new collection at most markets,” Julian said. “The inspiration is drawn from the very best in the history of ‘authentically American’ taste and style and gives me the opportunity to share my take on a variety of classic American designs.”

Wyatt Bassett said the company is excited to work with Julian and his wife, Meagan.

"More than 96 percent of our production is made by American craftsmen in our factories in Galax, Va., and Elkin, N.C.,” Bassett said. “Our close proximity to our customers will allow us to ship Alex's first collection in July, giving our dealers ample time to take advantage of the entire fall 2008 selling season.”

Meagan Julian is described as an instrumental partner in her husband’s business.

"Women overwhelmingly make the buying decisions for their homes. Meagan has a good eye for proportion and detail and we have been able to combine our talents and taste,” Alexander Julian said Monday.

The designer was born in Chapel Hill, N.C., in 1948. After becoming the manager of his father's clothing store at 16, Alex tried his hand at clothing design, opening one of the first boutiques in the Southeast, "Alexander's Ambition," at age 19.

He moved to New York in 1975, where he soon won five prestigious Coty Awards, becoming the youngest designer ever inducted into the Coty Hall of Fame.

"Colours by Alexander Julian" was introduced in 1981. He is the first clothing designer to design his own exclusive fabrics.

One of his textile designs is part of the Smithsonian's permanent collection. His licensed products for men includes: sportswear, clothing, neckwear, eyeglasses, jewelry, accessories, leather goods, socks and sleepwear.

Julian debuted his first furniture collections in 1994. The launch of his “Original Collection" was one of the most successful in High Point history, Vaughan-Bassett said in a news release.

Julian has since designed and marketed extensive products for the home. These include upholstery, lamps, area rugs, exclusive fabrics for the trade both for the decorator market and contract market, and a paint collection.

Vaughan-Bassett will devote more than 4,000 square feet of its High Point showroom to the launch of Alexander Julian's "Authentically American" line in April. Julian's previously licensed furniture lines are no longer active or available.

Vaughan-Bassett and its dealers will enjoy exclusive rights to new products bearing the Alexander Julian brand.

"We can't wait for opening day of April market to arrive," Wyatt Bassett said. “Where else can dealers find beautiful, affordable furniture designed by an American icon, inspired by American style and made by American craftsmen?"