Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
Universal, Alexander Julian Reunite for New Collection
April 4,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Industry 
More than 20 years after launching one of the most successful licensed collections in the history of the home furnishings industry, Universal Furniture and fashion designer Alexander Julian have reunited for a new 32-piece collection that will be unveiled at this month's High Point Market.
Called Postscript, the new collection features traditional furniture designs with a relaxed, comfortable look.
“It’s tradition without the formality,” said Universal CEO Jeff Scheffer.
He said there's also a sartorial influence that pays homage to Julian’s fashion roots. Buttons, argyle, tortoiseshell and a combination of performance fabrics and patterns elevate both the case goods and upholstery designs.
“Our first collection in 1994 (Home Colours) broke retail records,” said Scheffer. “Part of what made it popular was that we transformed a formal look into something livable.”
The new collection includes bedroom, dining room and living room pieces. Case pieces use birch, walnut and maple and are available in five finishes, while the upholstery features Crypton performance fabrics.
“I’m excited and honored to work with Universal again,” said Julian. “This project maximized the strengths of all involved and leveraged the evolution of Universal as a whole-home provider while reflecting on the influence that fashion has in the home. We want to be comfortable in what we wear and how we live our lives. Comfort is confidence, and I’m proud of what we’ve been able create.”