A Letter from Our Founder

Welcome to Public Label, my customizable ready-to-wear platform that brings all of the care of my haute couture house, Renee Cafaro Atelier, in a more accessible way. When I first embarked on this journey, I was on a mission to serve those who felt left out by the fashion industry. As a plus-size woman, my expertise is in innovative fit, and handcrafted designs for curves and bigger bodies — and I am so proud to now expand my passion for fit to all people. Our tailored pieces are available starting at a women's 8 or men's/non-binary 38; however, if you would like a size you do not see please feel free to contact us because I would love to help!

To me, fashion is not just about looking good or feeling good. It is about expressing oneself and having equal access to luxury that sample sizes have had for generations. Everything I do in my life is steeped in mission. In my previous career, I was a fashion editor and a grassroots organizer so this brand is a full circle moment for me to finally blend my love for design with my love for community. During the pandemic, we started as a humble group of freelancers just seeking to make hospital gowns and masks to donate to NYC hospitals in the fight against COVID. What an incredible honor it's been to see this grow into a brand that has graced everything from red carpets to everyday moments in your lives!

I am proud that I still make everything locally. In an effort to bolster NYC's garment district everything is handmade by a diverse group of artisans who are paid a fair wage. Most of my sticker price goes to ensuring that our sewing team can live with dignity.

No longer should you have to compromise your ethics for style.

I hope that you will create many unique pieces that will be cherished for years and that this company can help usher in a new era that is about quality over quantity. Over consumption, big brands, and fast fashion have compromised fit as well as the planet.

By making each garment locally when you order it, we are able to reduce our carbon footprint and our fabric waste. Furthermore, any fabric waste that we generate will be recycled into insulation.

Doing things the right way takes time, which is why our lead time is 6 to 8 weeks for delivery. So I thank you for your patience when ordering from us.

Every step of the way, I strive for the best business practices so you can feel good that your hard-earned money is going to an ethical small business that really cares about you and the world around them.