Theresa DeMarco, Founder & Owner of District 5 Boutique, Revolutionized the Fashion World 15 Years Ago—and She’s About to do it Again.

The Birth of District 5

District 5 was born long before online shopping became the norm. With the help of her son, Alexander, who was only 13 at the time, they created an innovative concept that appealed to women of all cultures worldwide—a way to shop luxury dresses from designers across the globe.

A Groundbreaking Fashion Concept

This was a groundbreaking approach in fashion, as designers’ full collections were made available in any size, color, and even with custom modifications for special orders. It provided global exposure for designers who had previously only sold from their ateliers, while also offering women unique styles without the hassle of visiting multiple stores—where their size might not even be available.
Without the need to purchase stock, maintain a storefront, or rely solely on local customers, the entire fashion world opened up—not just for District 5, but for designers and women everywhere.

Championing Iconic and Emerging Designers

District 5’s portfolio includes iconic brands such as Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Giambattista Valli, Azzi & Osta, Georges Hobeika, Jenny Packham, and Isabel Sanchis—just to name a few. In fact, District 5 carries and promotes more Lebanese designers than any other store worldwide, staying true to the very brands Theresa started with.

Built Through Challenges

The journey was not without challenges, but as Theresa puts it, “The best ideas come from challenges.” District 5’s unique approach was born out of necessity—they didn’t have a physical store or the ability to hold inventory like a traditional brick-and-mortar boutique.

The Rise to Global Recognition

Fifteen years is a long time—especially considering District 5 launched only a few years after the iPhone! Over the years, it has earned the reputation of the Ultimate Luxury Dress Destination, with an incredible following of celebrities, socialites, and influencers.
District 5 gowns have graced everything from award shows and red carpets to television screens, exclusive galas, and high-profile events. The boutique is renowned for its exclusive avant-garde, haute couture, and runway styles, as well as designers that can’t be found anywhere else.

A New Era: Auraelis Couture

Now, a new chapter begins for District 5 Boutique. Always staying ahead of the curve, Theresa has launched her own couture collection: AURAELIS COUTURE.
But this isn’t just any collection—it is one of the first to be exclusively created and sold with the help of modern technology. Auraelis Couture blends classic silhouettes with a futuristic edge.
With an extensive background in music and art, creativity has always been second nature to Theresa. Her love of avant-garde fashion has allowed her to fuse these artistic elements into a collection that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.

“In a world where fashion is rapidly evolving, we have leveraged technology to open a new era of creativity and endless possibilities,” says Theresa.

Looking Forward

With invitations to showcase at fashion weeks around the world, Theresa and her COO, Camille, are currently focused on production in Italy, as well as an extraordinary fashion shoot with their brand ambassador, Egyptian model and actress Heba El Dessouky.

“The future is limitless,” says Theresa, as she plans to expand Auraelis Couture with luxe streetwear, shoes, handbags, and perhaps even menswear.

Faith and Determination

“No matter the challenges it took to get here (and there were many), I know I am truly blessed and that nothing is impossible with GOD.”