Today we’d like to introduce you to Annemarie Dralus.
Hi Annemarie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began over 25 years ago with a needle, thread, and a deep fascination for transformation through clothing.
What started as costume design became a lifelong devotion to construction, fit, and the quiet power of detail. Over time, I refined my craft as an alteration specialist, learning how garments move with the body, how they can be reshaped, and how they can restore confidence and identity.
In 2024 I created my first fashion clothing collection and release it among my peers, showing at Atlantic City Fashion Week in New Jersey. Shortly after that, in September of 2024 I left my full time career as a senior analyst and opened a boutique in downtown Easton.
In 2025, that journey reached a defining moment when I was named Designer of the Year at Atlantic City Fashion Week after presenting my collection on the runway. It was not just recognition—it was a turning point, a moment where years of quiet work stepped into the light.
Today, I design under the name Angel, creating gothic couture that blends dark romance with intentional, sustainable fashion. My work is rooted in inclusivity—designed for every body, every gender, and every expression of self. I believe clothing should not exclude but empower. Each collection is an ongoing evolution of that belief, shaped by experience, craft, and a deep respect for individuality.
Looking forward to March of 2027, I will be releasing my new brand, Velangrave, for both the retail and wholesale markets. This brand is focused on goth clothing with a fantasy aesthetic, blending both costume and fashion.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road!
Things I’ve struggled with:
Getting started was so exciting but extremely overwhelming. Stepping into a new world where I didn’t have expertise and learning along the way has presented it’s challenges. Feeling like an imposter, calling myself a fashion designer at first was a challenge in itself. Today I feel I’ve earned the title.
– Opening the boutique cost more than anticipated. Fees, building costs, permits all piled up.
– I didn’t anticipate the inventory needs being different between the boutique and the shows or festivals that I do, so it became necessary to carry two sets of inventory, doubling the initial investment.
– Tariffs hit and became unpredictable leading to supply chain management issues and delaying the production of several styles.
– I’ve shared my space with several different artists/business owners, and while some of those relationships have flourished, others had left me completely drained.
– I recently had my sign vandalized, written on it was a message about Jesus and how we should repent. This felt personal and was deeply upsetting to myself and the other artists in our shop.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The boutique has become a hub for several other artisans such as Bone A Fide Arts (jewelry, shoes and art), Wickedly Cute Creations (crocheted items including plushies and handbags), Liz J Arts, a local painter and artist, Velvet Caskety Beauty (a local cosmetic line) as well as many others. Together we created a world that is inviting to others, giving misfits a place to belong, a sense of community, and the power to live authentically. We support all walks of life, with a special focus on LGBTQ+, Trans, & Non-Binary.
One of the things I am known for is alterations, particularly helping trans and non-binary to receive tailoring for the perfect fit. This work has been really rewarding for me, experiencing the joy a person feels when they can dress the outside to match the inside. We also offer, custom clothing, refashioning, & costume design.
Uniqueness sets us apart from others, since a good majority of our offerings are handmade by local artisans, there’s always something new and different to experience in the boutique. If you are looking for yourself or for a gift, Angel’s House of Design Co, is a great way to step into a world that’s new and exciting.
About my Brand:
Velangrave is a modern dark fantasy clothing brand creating elevated gothic apparel for people who have never felt represented by mainstream fashion. It blends Victorian romance, vampire elegance, industrial edge, medieval influences, and contemporary streetwear into clothing that’s wearable every day—not just for Halloween or concerts. Unlike many gothic brands that lean heavily into shock value or fast fashion, Velangrave is about craftsmanship, longevity, and confidence. Every collection is designed to become part of someone’s identity rather than simply following trends.
Launch Party is March 20th, 2027 (more details to come) & some styles are already available in store for purchase at Angel’s House of Design Co.
website (coming soon): Velangrave.net
IG, FB, TIKTOK – @Velangrave
Any big plans?
We are expanding! Launching Velangrave brand in 2027, expanding our reach into wholesale, connecting with new audiences through live selling & social media, and creating amazing collaborations with other artists.
I am in the midst of bringing on two new team members to assist with the expansion. We are also exploring loyalty and ambassador programs so everyone can feel included.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.angelshouseofdesign.com/
- Instagram: @angelshouseofdesign
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANGELSHOUSEOFDESIGN
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/angel-s-house-of-design-easton?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
