Made
Made in USA
est.1987
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About Us
Meet The Designer
Elaine Vinikoor
The Beginning
Elaine's mother Nina lived in Ukraine and worked as a home economics teacher specializing in knitting. In 1978, the family immigrated to America in pursuit of better opportunities. With her expertise, Nina found a job at a knitting shop. Three years later, in 1981, she decided to start her own business, called "Nina's Knitting." The business offered yarn for sale, knitting lessons, and handmade clothing.
1972-Kiev, Ukraine
Elaine at 5 years old featured in a magazine wearing a dress hand knitted by Nina
1988-New York
Elaine and Nina at the Javits Convention Center showing the new Elana Collection.
The Early Years
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In the mid-1980s, Nina and Elaine came up with a new and unique idea. Elaine had always shown an aptitude for design, and from a young age, Nina had been developing her daughter's technical skills in sewing, knitting, and pattern-making. As a team, they decided to invest in the necessary technology and equipment needed to create a clothing line of their own. After much planning and preparation, they officially established Elana Collection Inc. in 1987 and introduced it to the world at the New York Boutique Show. The collection was met with positive reception and marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. They knew that starting a clothing line was a big risk, but they were determined to make it a success. They put all their effort and dedication into the business, and it paid off as they built a reputation for themselves in the fashion industry. The Elana Collection was known for its unique designs, high-quality fabrics and attention to detail.
Today
In the years that followed, the Elana Collection grew in popularity and expanded its reach across the United States. From the beginning, the brand has been family-owned and American-made, and continues to be operated by Elaine and her children today. Elaine believes that "if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life," and this sentiment is reflected in the passion and dedication put into every Elana Collection piece.
