Apparis Cofounder Lauren Nouchi Is Challenging The Fur Industry With Her Vegan Label

In January 2018, Lauren Nouchi got the call young designers dream of—Bloomingdale’s wanted to see her fall line. The only problem: she didn’t have one. So she locked herself in her Paris studio apartment for two weeks and sketched 12 faux fur coats in shades of lilac, burnt orange and neon pink. The department store ordered 5,000. Taking Bloomingdale’s interest as a sign, Nouchi and Apparis cofounder Amelie Brick, 35, cold-called other retailers. Two years later, their brand is in 600 shops including Intermix and Saks. Nouchi expects 2019 revenue of $7.3 million. While she doesn’t follow a vegan diet, Nouchi’s closet is strictly animal-free. “In the food industry there was a big movement, then it moved to beauty,” she says, “I really think vegan fashion will be the next thing.” She’ll be ready—Nouchi already has designs for fall 2020. Her personal favorite? A $295 puffer in camouflage.