Alyce Paris
Alyce Paris is a US formalwear label founded in 1967 by Alyce, a French-born designer based in Chicago. It makes prom, homecoming, formal and wedding guest dresses and is known for hand-beaded silk prom styles.
| Founded | 1967 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Alyce (Alice Marie-Therese Hamm) |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Known for | Hand-beaded prom dresses, from 1981 |
| Website | alyceparis.com |
What is Alyce Paris?
Alyce Paris is an American formalwear brand focused on prom, homecoming, formal, wedding and wedding guest dresses. The company was founded in 1967 by Alyce, born Alice Marie-Therese Hamm in eastern France, who changed the spelling of her name after becoming a US citizen in 1961.
History
According to the brand, Alyce began making dresses by hand at the age of 12 in wartime France, trained at a design school in Alsace and then in Paris, and moved to Chicago in the early 1950s to work for a bridal house. Her first customers after founding the company were bridal shops in the late 1960s. In 1968 her custom gowns were worn by Miss America, Debra Dene Barnes.
Products and positioning
In 1981 the company expanded into hand-beaded prom dresses, which remain a signature. The product range now covers occasion dressing across prom, bridal party and guest wear.
Distribution
Alyce Paris sells through independent retailers and describes its network as handpicked stores, supported by a store locator and a retailer login on its website. The site ships worldwide with prices shown in US dollars.
Why it matters
The brand shows how a specialist occasionwear label can build a lasting business through independent retailers rather than owned stores.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Alyce Paris?
Alyce Paris was founded in 1967 by Alyce, born Alice Marie-Therese Hamm in eastern France, who built the company in the United States.
What does Alyce Paris sell?
Alyce Paris sells prom, homecoming, formal, wedding and wedding guest dresses, including hand-beaded silk prom styles.