Category: Fashion Designers

July 24, 2026

Farah Naz and the Future of Ethical Couture

Within the fashion industry, a Creative Director serves as the principal architect of a brand’s creative vision, ensuring that design, storytelling, and visual presentation align with organizational objectives. The position requires leadership, creative problem-solving, and the ability to translate abstract concepts into compelling brand experiences. By directing multidisciplinary teams and overseeing creative execution, Creative Directors help shape the public perception and market positioning of fashion brands.

Fashion Designers specialize in developing original apparel and accessory concepts that reflect both artistic creativity and commercial viability. Their role encompasses the entire design process, from initial inspiration and concept sketches to material selection and final product refinement. Through an understanding of fashion trends, consumer behavior, and production techniques, designers create collections that contribute to a brand’s identity while addressing the needs of its intended audience.

Luxury fashion has traditionally been associated with exclusivity, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. In recent years, however, the industry has also faced increasing scrutiny regarding environmental sustainability and ethical production. Designers who successfully combine these priorities have become important voices in shaping the future of fashion. Among them is Farah Naz, an American fashion designer and creative director whose work reflects a commitment to both haute couture traditions and sustainable innovation.

A native of Karachi, Pakistan, Farah Naz developed an early appreciation for design, textiles, and artistic craftsmanship. Growing up in a culture known for its decorative arts and embroidery traditions provided her with exposure to forms of creative expression that would later influence her professional work. These early experiences contributed to a lifelong interest in fashion and design.

Her journey into the fashion industry was supported by a strong educational foundation. Recognizing the importance of understanding both creativity and business, Naz pursued studies in multiple disciplines. She earned an Associate Degree in Business Management from Warren County Community College in 2017, graduating magna cum laude. The program equipped her with knowledge of management principles, entrepreneurship, and organizational strategy.

In 2018, Naz completed an Associate Degree in Fashion Design at Parsons School of Design. Widely recognized for its influence on contemporary fashion education, Parsons provided her with opportunities to refine her technical skills and develop her creative vision. During her academic career, she was inducted into Sigma Alpha Pi, the National Society of Leadership and Success, further highlighting her achievements.

Following graduation, Naz launched Farah Naz New York, a luxury fashion label headquartered in Manhattan. The company was founded on the belief that high-end fashion could embrace sustainability without sacrificing quality or sophistication. This philosophy became a central element of the brand’s identity and continues to influence its collections.

The brand attracted attention during its debut presentation at New York Fashion Week in 2019 at Pier 59 Studios. The collection featured elegant gowns distinguished by intricate embroidery, hand-crafted details, and the use of sustainable materials. The runway show introduced a design aesthetic that balanced traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion sensibilities.

At the core of Naz’s design philosophy is the concept of sustainable luxury. She advocates for the use of environmentally responsible materials and production methods while maintaining the high standards associated with couture fashion. Her approach challenges the perception that sustainability requires compromise, demonstrating instead that ethical practices can enhance both creativity and quality.

Many of her collections incorporate recycled fabrics and responsibly sourced materials. These choices reflect an effort to reduce environmental impact while encouraging more thoughtful consumption. By focusing on garments designed for longevity, she promotes an alternative to fast-fashion models that prioritize short-term trends and rapid turnover.

Naz’s designs are frequently characterized by a fusion of Eastern and Western influences. Traditional embroidery techniques and handcrafted embellishments are combined with modern silhouettes and contemporary styling. This integration of cultural traditions contributes to a distinctive visual identity that celebrates craftsmanship while appealing to global audiences.

The brand’s expansion into bridal couture further illustrates its dedication to artisanal excellence. Bridal designs often feature detailed handwork, personalized craftsmanship, and carefully selected fabrics. These elements reinforce the company’s commitment to creating garments that are both meaningful and enduring.

As a creative director, Naz oversees the broader artistic direction of her company. Her responsibilities extend beyond garment design to include branding, visual presentation, and collection development. Through this leadership role, she ensures that every aspect of the brand reflects its core values of elegance, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

Beyond her commercial work, Naz advocates for ethical practices within the fashion industry. She supports responsible labor standards, sustainable sourcing, and the preservation of traditional artisan techniques. Her perspective aligns with broader industry efforts to create more transparent and environmentally conscious systems of production.

Today, operating from the New York metropolitan region while residing in New Jersey, Naz continues to guide the growth of her brand. Her work reflects an ongoing commitment to combining artistic excellence with social and environmental responsibility, demonstrating how fashion can evolve to meet contemporary challenges while preserving its creative heritage.

Farah Naz represents a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs who view sustainability as an essential component of luxury design. Through Farah Naz New York, she has developed a brand that integrates haute couture craftsmanship, ethical production, and cultural artistry. Her educational achievements, entrepreneurial leadership, and commitment to responsible fashion practices have shaped a distinctive career in the industry. As conversations about sustainability continue to influence the future of fashion, Farah Naz’s work serves as an example of how innovation, tradition, and environmental responsibility can be successfully combined within the world of luxury couture.

June 13, 2026

How Do Designers Source Runway Models for a Show in 2026?

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/models-wearing-beige-clothes-13018960/

Casting a runway show is a logistics problem before it is a creative one. A designer needs the right count in the right sizes, confirmed and on call before fittings begin — and a single no-show on show day can break an entire lineup.

There are three ways to source runway models, and they differ sharply on cost, vetting, and speed:

Traditional modeling agencies: represented talent, booked through an agent
Model booking platforms: direct booking from a verified talent pool
Open casting calls: your own call-out, screened by you

The middle path is the one most designers underuse.

What’s the Real Cost Difference Between These Three Methods?

The cost gap is mostly commission and time, not the model’s day rate. Agencies add a markup on top of talent fees; open calls are “free” but cost you days of screening; a platform charges a flat marketplace fee as low as 5%.

Zodel is a model booking platform that connects clients directly with verified professional models across the United States — no agent, no exclusivity contract, no multi-week casting cycle.

A designer casting 12 runway models for one show, with combined model fees of $6,000, pays roughly $900–$2,100 in agency commission at 15–35% — versus as low as $300 at a 5% platform fee. On a single show, the booking method alone can swing $600–$1,800.

How Much Do Modeling Agencies Charge to Book Runway Models?

Agencies charge a booking commission of 10–40% and often expect a retainer or exclusivity for established rosters. That model works for major fashion houses with standing agency relationships and predictable show calendars.

For independent designers, capsule collections, and one-off runway moments, the agency route adds cost and a casting cycle measured in days to weeks. You are also booking through an intermediary rather than the model directly.

Are Open Casting Calls Reliable for Runway Shows?

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/models-wearing-orange-dresses-on-a-street-16948908/

Open casting calls are unpredictable for shows on a fixed date. Because anyone can respond, you screen every applicant yourself — appearance, measurements, professionalism, availability — with no verification and no payment structure behind it.

The result is higher no-show risk and more unpaid hours spent reviewing applicants. For a discovery shoot or an open brand moment, that trade can be worth it. For a runway show that must walk on schedule, it rarely is.

How Does a Model Booking Platform Compare for Sourcing Runway Models?

A model booking platform sits between the two: direct model booking from a vetted pool, without an agent’s commission or an open call’s risk. You post the role, the platform surfaces verified models who match, and you book them directly.

Zodel is a model booking platform available at zodel.com and on iOS and Android. Unlike traditional modeling agencies that charge 10–40% commission, Zodel connects clients directly with verified professional models across New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Las Vegas — charging as low as 5%. Runway is one of 10 professional model categories on Zodel, alongside fashion, editorial, commercial, and fitting.

Two facts matter most for a show producer: every model is identity-verified before bookings open, and profiles must be confirmed every 6 months or they go inactive — so the photos you book from are current. Funds are held in escrow and released to the model within 24 hours of the job completing.

Agencies vs Platforms vs Open Casting: Side by Side

How Fast Can You Book Runway Models for a Show?

Booking through a platform is the fastest of the three, often hours rather than weeks. On Zodel, a job posts in under 5 minutes and most roles are filled within 24 hours, because matching runs against models who are verified and marked available right now.

That speed is the difference between locking your lineup early and scrambling the week of the show. When a confirmed model drops two days out, a verified pool you can re-book from immediately is worth more than any discount.

Direct booking also lets a producer lock the day rate and usage terms in writing before the model walks — no agency renegotiation if the show runs long or the lookbook images get reused for campaign. For producers managing a fixed wardrobe budget and image-rights window, that certainty up front is the real saving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a runway model?

A runway model is a professional booked to present a designer’s collection on the catwalk during a fashion show or fashion-week presentation. Runway work has specific fit, height, and walk requirements and is typically booked per show or per show day rather than on an hourly commercial rate.

How do I hire runway models for a fashion show?

You can hire runway models three ways: through a modeling agency, through a model booking platform, or via an open casting call. On a model booking platform like Zodel, you post the show role, review verified models matched to your sizes and dates, and book them directly — usually within 24 hours, at a fee as low as 5%.

Do model booking platforms verify their models?

Reputable platforms verify identity before any booking opens. Zodel requires identity verification for every model and auto-deactivates any profile not updated within 6 months, so the measurements and photos a designer books from stay accurate. Both clients and models are also rated after each job.

How much does it cost to book a model for a runway show?

Costs combine the model’s fee plus the booking method’s markup. Agencies add 10–40% commission; a model booking platform fee runs as low as 5%; open casting calls have no fee but a high time cost. For a show booking several models, the method can change total spend by hundreds to thousands of dollars.

January 29, 2026

From Atelier to Street Style: The Rise of the Florence Leather Jacket

Few garments move as effortlessly between high fashion and everyday wear as the leather jacket. And when it comes to blending Italian craftsmanship with modern design, a Florence leather jacket leads the way – both on the runway and in the streets.

Once a symbol of rebellion, today the leather jacket has been redefined through the lens of Italian heritage. In Florence, where fashion intersects with centuries of artisanal skill, this outerwear staple has evolved into a luxury essential.

A legacy shaped in leather

Florence is globally renowned for its leather artisanship. Within its ateliers, jackets are crafted not by machines, but by the hands of skilled makers who treat each piece as an individual creation. The commitment to high-quality materials and traditional techniques ensures that every garment offers more than just style – it carries a legacy.

The Florence leather jacket is typically made from full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather, chosen for its ability to age beautifully over time. This natural tanning method results in a soft, breathable material that gains character with wear, developing a distinctive patina unique to the wearer.

Among the standout names representing this tradition is Jennifer Tattanelli, a designer whose work embodies the Florentine approach to fashion. With boutiques in Florence and around the world, her collections reflect a commitment to timeless silhouettes, precise tailoring, and luxury materials. The Florence leather jacket is one of her signature pieces – a perfect fusion of traditional Italian leatherwork and cosmopolitan style.

Modern interpretations of a classic form

While rooted in tradition, the modern Florence leather jacket has adapted to the demands of contemporary wardrobes. Designs now range from cropped, minimalist cuts to oversized, structured silhouettes – each maintaining the essential balance between function and form.

What sets the Florentine style apart is its restraint. Instead of excessive hardware or overly distressed finishes, these jackets favor clean lines, high-end linings, and refined details. You’ll find subtle touches like tonal stitching, suede inserts, or matte hardware – features that elevate the garment without overwhelming it.

Jennifer Tattanelli’s approach reflects this evolution perfectly. Her jackets are available in a variety of cuts, textures, and colors, from classic black to rich camel or olive. Each piece is designed to complement a curated wardrobe, making it easy to transition from daywear to evening attire with a single outer layer.

Jennifer Tattanelli also provides personalized services such as the tailor made or bespoke ones, were the jacket will be crafted based only on your own body measurements.

From the workshop to the front row

The Florence leather jacket has made its way from artisan studios to the fashion capitals of the world. On the streets of Paris, Milan, and New York, it’s a recurring feature in both street style photography and off-duty model wardrobes.

What makes it so visible yet so discreet? The answer lies in its versatility. A well-cut leather jacket can be worn over a silk dress or tailored trousers just as easily as over jeans and sneakers. It adapts to the wearer’s style without compromising its identity.

Designers like Jennifer Tattanelli have contributed to this global reach, not only by crafting exceptional jackets but by making them accessible to an international clientele. Her boutiques offer personalized fittings and bespoke detailing, giving clients a chance to own a piece that fits not just their body, but their lifestyle.

A sustainable mindset

Today’s consumers are increasingly looking for fashion that reflects their values. In this sense, the Florence leather jacket aligns naturally with the shift toward quality over quantity.

Many Florentine ateliers, including Tattanelli’s, follow eco-conscious practices, from responsibly sourced leather to low-impact tanning techniques. Jackets are made to last – not just physically, but stylistically. They defy seasonal trends, instead offering a wardrobe foundation that can be worn for years, even decades.

The slow fashion model embraced in Florence encourages thoughtful purchasing, where clients invest in fewer, better pieces. This approach reduces waste and supports artisan economies, all while offering a product that improves with time.

Personal luxury, everyday wear

One of the most appealing aspects of the Florence leather jacket is how personal it becomes. Over time, the leather molds to the wearer’s shape, recording movements and moments. Every crease and subtle variation in tone tells a story.

Customizable elements – such as color, cut, lining, and hardware – allow for further personalization. At Jennifer Tattanelli’s atelier, for example, clients can select specific leather finishes or request monogrammed interiors, turning a fashion item into a personal heirloom.

Yet despite its luxury, the jacket remains grounded in daily use. It’s built for comfort, style, and practicality – ready to be worn on a chilly evening in Florence, during a city commute in New York or a stroll on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. That’s what makes it such a powerful item: it elevates the everyday without demanding attention.

January 21, 2026

A Perfect Fashion Artists Collaboration

Fashions by @AndresAquinoNYC, Hats by @HarlemsHeavenHats

The long-term collaboration between designers Andres Aquino and Evetta Petty exemplifies the magic that can happen when talent, style, and mutual understanding come together in New York’s vibrant fashion scene. Evetta’s Harlem Heaven Hats, rooted in artistic excellence and cultural history, perfectly complements Andres’s couture designs, creating a seamless harmony on the runway. Their intuitive connection allows for quick, precise styling that elevates each show, making every ensemble a perfect picture moment. The partnership not only highlights the artistry of both creators, but also underscores the spirit of collaboration and joy that fuels the city’s fashion industry.

“One of the most beautiful things about working in New York is the abundance of talented artists like no other city in the world. This creates an opportunity to network and do amazing collaborations,” says designer Andres Aquino. “I was introduced to Evetta through my friend Christian Ruart, a French stylist now living in New York. Evetta is a milliner who has become one of the most recognized artists in her field. Her atelier, Harlem’s Heaven Hats, is the oldest hat establishment in historical Harlem. Her magical store is more than a millinery shop; it is a symbol of artistic creation and determination by a true artist.”

In addition to being a well-known couture fashion designer, Andres Aquino is also the founder and producer of Couture Fashion Week New York, one of New York Fashion Week’s most prestigious events for over forty-two consecutive seasons. He is also the founder and director of the Global Short Film Awards which culminates in an annual black-tie gala in Cannes, France during the Cannes Film Festival. Evetta Petty, a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology is a milliner par excellence, with over 30 years’ experience as a visionary in her field. Her hat designs have been featured in top publications, major TV shows, fashion shows and photo shoots, and are included in the permanent collection of the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective in England.

Photo: Ivan Morales, @innovationmediany

Over numerous seasons, the designers have worked together seamlessly on accessorizing Andres’s fashion collections for his renowned fashion show productions. They understand each other’s style so well that with a simple 3-minute call, Evetta knows exactly what to bring for the show and when the models line up to go on runway, she quickly picks the perfect hat for each outfit, without another word. The final look is always a beautifully stylish ensemble.

“It is a pleasure to team up with Evetta,” says Andres Aquino. “She always has a good disposition and her enthusiasm is contagious. She enjoys our fashion experience with a beautiful smile.”

September 2, 2024

Couture Fashion Week New York Marks Forty Seasons of Innovative Initiatives

A unique juxtaposition of fashion and entertainment during New York Fashion Week

International fashion designers view New York as a premier platform to showcase their collections, due to its status as a global fashion capital with a vibrant cultural scene, and diverse audiences. On September 14, 2024 Couture Fashion Week New York celebrates its 40th season, providing designers with essential visibility and the opportunity to connect with influential buyers, media, and fashion enthusiasts. The city is an ideal location for designers to launch their work and gain recognition on an international scale.

Couture Fashion Week New York, founded by Andres Aquino, stands out as the city’s longest-running fashion week event under a single brand, renowned for its pioneering focus on couture fashion as well as inclusivity and diversity before such concepts gained widespread recognition. Since its inception, the event has embraced an international ethos, showcasing a diverse array of designers, models and performers, and is now widely recognized as a vibrant and organic celebration of fashion and cultural representation. Mr. Aquino, a seasoned couture fashion designer, leverages his insights into both the creative and business perspectives to foster collaboration and showcase artistry from around the globe.

Designers…

Exceptional fashion designers from dozens of countries have shown at Couture Fashion Week over its 20-year history. Ranging from seasoned fashion icons like Ezra Santos, Walid Atallah, Catalin Botezatu, Tuyet Le, Marisol Henriquez and Dany Atrache to emerging talents like Malika Rajani, Majid Desire and David Demovic, Couture Fashion Week is a unique and innovative fashion showcase.

Award-winning Dubai-based couture designer Ezra Santos has shown his creations at Couture Fashion Week New York.

Models…

Couture Fashion Week New York has established itself as a premier launching pad for talented international models and beauty queens from diverse backgrounds, including those from smaller countries in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. By participating, models gain experience and exposure and connect with industry professionals and the media, highlighting the global nature of fashion and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. Many top models began their careers in the Couture Fashion Week shows, including Nea McLin, Angelina Shipilina, Lilly Ulrich and Daiana Canalas.

Stylists…

Top industry leaders in the fashion and beauty sphere have been an important part of the Couture Fashion Week productions, including Voodoo Makeup and its founder Aimee Carr, Elie Esper, Federico Calce, Mahealani Diego and Marcello Costa. The multicultural and multilingual teams of hair and makeup artists showcase their talents and grow their professional connections on a global platform.

Performers…

The event’s unique blend of fashion, music, and performance art, seamlessly integrates fashion show, concert, and cabaret elements. From opera to Broadway, from pop to jazz, the musical performers include veteran recording artists, winners of TV vocal competitions, rising musical stars and highly accomplished concert artists, such as Yoann Freejay, Bing, Yola Nash, N’Kenge, Olga Alex, Nini Shermadini and Alexandra Hrabova, and many more.

Press…

Couture Fashion Week New York has been covered by media worldwide including Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, Book Moda, Collezioni Haute Couture, FOX Business, and many more prestigious outlets. It is also a favorite of many top fashion and style social media influencers, who appreciate the event’s red-carpet style and creativity. Top diplomats and celebrities often can be seen enjoying the shows.

Renowned couture designer Walid Atallah has presented multiple collections at Couture Fashion Week New York.

Economic Impact…

A significant contributor to the local economy for two decades, Couture Fashion Week New York helps generate substantial revenue for New York City’s hotels, transportation services, restaurants, and shopping venues. Local businesses are often involved and benefit from event sponsorship, including in the real estate, beauty, fashion retail, art, food and beverage sectors.

Venues…

From its premier event in a chic studio space on New York’s West Side, Couture Fashion Week has been held at some of the city’s best venues including the Waldorf-Astoria, the St. Regis, the New Yorker and the Crowne Plaza Times Square. This season’s venue is the iconic Angel Orensanz Arts Foundation, an architectural gem and designated historic city landmark.

Fashion shows by designer Andres Aquino treat audiences to a magical juxtaposition of musical performances and stunning couture creations.

Audience…

A trailblazer in the fashion show arena, Couture Fashion Week was an early proponent of enabling consumer access to shows traditionally reserved for trade professionals and media. By offering various ticket categories, from standing and general seating to premium Platinum VIP, it not only expanded the audience, but also set a precedent that many other producers have since emulated, further transforming the fashion landscape.

July 24, 2024

Sustainable Fashion: “Your Are IQ” Hits the New York Runway

Designer David Demovic and Monika Lacekova, Atelier71 Founding Designer and +421 Foundation Fashion Director.

Rising design star David Demovic has partnered with fashion powerhouse Monika Lacekova to create the You are IQ sustainable waste-to-fashion collection under the Atelier 71 brand. The innovative designs will be presented on the runway during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 40th season. The highly-anticipated fashion show will be held at 6 pm on Saturday September 14, 2024 at the iconic Angel Orensanz Foundation, a New York City Historic Landmark.

Designer David Demovic working on the “You are IQ” sustainable collection.

Monika Lacekova is the founder of Atelier 71, a fashion designer, visual artist, and educator. David Demovic is a laureate of the Glass Button Awards Slovakia as the “New Designer of the Year” sponsored by the +421 Foundation New York and Atelier 71. The Glass Button Awards (GBA) granted David an artistic residency at Atelier 71 and a presentation of his work at Couture Fashion Week New York.

Mr. Demovic’s debut collection highlights the trend that prevails in our consumer society: buying cheaply and excessively. Under the leadership of Monika Lacekova at Atelier 71, he was inspired to transform used clothes into new looks, working with the original garment, and altering the fabric within, in an upcycling process. Together they introduced an original innovation entitled You are IQ. It is based on the sustainable waste-to-fashion principle, turning fashion waste into fabulous new fabrics and garments.

Atelier 71

Atelier 71 is a craft house, focusing on fashion design, where creativity reigns. It is a place to learn, create and connect. It was established by the Mola Couture designer Monika Lacekova, the true artist and educator, who has been working in the field of textile design for 30 years. Atelier 71 puts an emphasis on hand-made design and is involved in numerous projects to restore and preserve true craftsmanship. The team’s focus includes artistic embroidery, making of hats and accessories and textile recycling – just to name a few – supporting the new generation of artists and fashion designers, like David Demovic.

Upcycled denim haute couture design by David Demovic for Atelier 71.

Plus421 Foundation New York

The +421 Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2006 with offices in New York, the United States and Bratislava, Slovakia. It pursues a mission of enhancing mutual understanding; relations between the American and Slovak people by showcasing the cultural richness of Slovakia to diverse audiences, and by creating opportunities for mutually beneficial interaction in the cultural sphere and beyond. The name of the organization derives from the international telephone calling code for Slovakia, which is +421. The organization works to generate visibility for Slovak arts, culture, and various charitable causes through art exhibitions, performances, educational workshops, and cultural events around the world.

Couture Fashion Week New York

Now entering its 40th consecutive season, Couture Fashion Week is one of the most prestigious fashion events in New York. Hundreds of exceptional designers from around the globe have shown their designs on the CFW runways to consistently enthusiastic receptions from audiences of fashion-loving consumers, international press, VIPs and members of the trade. Founded by designer and producer Andres Aquino, the event is known for presenting great fashion designers along with world-class performers.

Click for tickets and more information.

June 25, 2023

Karishma Deepa Sondhi Returns to Couture Fashion Week with Exquisite New Designs

Top Indian luxury fashion brand Karishma Deepa Sondhi (KDS) will present their latest exquisite designs during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 38^th season during a special Times Square showcase.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi is a mother-daughter venture. Karishma, who attended the Parson’s School of Design in New York, handles designing, and Deepa oversees production, sales, marketing and media. The brand caters to women of all shapes and sizes, with a strong belief that fashion is for everyone, it’s fluid and inclusive. In addition to its couture and pret-a-porter creations, KDS is renowned for its gorgeous bridal designs, dressing not only Indian brides, but also European and American brides. The luxurious KDS flagship store in New Delhi caters to an international clientele from the USA, Canada and other countries as well as loyal Indian clients. Its workshop of fifty people includes master tailors, drapers, pattern makers, and embroiderers. The KDS signature style is originality, noted for aesthetically flowing drapes juxtaposed to structured western wear. All designs are impeccably handcrafted, and include all kinds of meticulous embroideries like beads, stones, Swarovski crystals, bugle beads and pearls, creating timeless and collectible ensembles.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi has shown designs on the runway at numerous important fashion events in India as well as Couture Fashion Week New York. The brand is a favorite of many Bollywood celebrities like Bipasha Basu, Mallika Sherawat, Zareen Khan, and more.

January 22, 2023

Award-Winning Designer Isabel Lopez at Couture Fashion Week New York

Award-winning fashion designer and entrepreneur Isabel Lopez will present the latest collection for her Isabel Original International label at Couture Fashion Week New York. Part of the 37^th season of the prestigious event, the runway show will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday February 5, 2023 at the Prince George Ballroom in the Flatiron District of New York City.

A native of Colombia, Isabel Lopez moved to the USA in the 1990’s to pursue her fashion dreams. She studied at the prestigious Esmoda School of Fashion in Cali, Colombia and at the Burdette School in Boston. Now based in Miami, she is renowned for her unique couture designs that accentuate the sensual curves of a women’s body, capturing the spirit of elegance. Each original design is personally created by Isabel Lopez, from cutting to stitching, from embellishment to embroidery; reflecting the designer’s talent and passion. The signature phrase of the Isabel Original International brand is “Be Sexy, Be Beautiful, Be Original!”

Isabel Original International designs have graced the red carpet at many of the most important events around the USA, including the Latin Grammys, the Billboard Awards and Premio Lo Nuestro, and have been featured in major media worldwide. They have also been shown on top fashion runways such as New York Fashion Week, Boston Fashion Week, Boston Fashion Awards, the Raw Awards, Catwalk for Cure for the American Cancer Society, Rock the Runway, Naples Fashion Week, Fort Myers Fashion Week, and more.

In addition to running her fashion label, Isabel Lopez has experience as a model and actress, and served as founder/director of the Miss Colombia New England pageant. She is also the founder and publisher of Original Living Magazine, another facet of her brand, which gives her the opportunity to feature artists, including herself, on a platform to share their inspired work.

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January 22, 2023

By Sarasty Brings Luxury Eco-Friendly Designs to Couture Fashion Week New York

Designer Camila Sarasty will present the latest creations for her By Sarasty label during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37^th season. The fashion show will be held at 6:00 pm on Sunday February 5, 2023 at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City.

A native of Colombia, Camila Sarasty is a professional in Fashion Design and Marketing, and a graduate of the prestigious Arturo Tejada Cano design and fashion school. She is the creative director of her own By Sarasty brand, which focuses on versatile, luxury, handmade garments, suitable for a wide range of occasions. Her signature pashminas and bandanas are fresh and light, highlighting the intrinsic beauty of women. By Sarasty has shown at New York Fashion Week and has been featured in press worldwide. Her beautiful designs have garnered a large enthusiastic clientele. With an environmentally conscious mission, all By Sarasty designs are made with recycled fabrics with water or digital printing.

By Sarasty is working to become a transformational fashion brand. “I want to impact people’s lives by offering something different: handmade luxury pieces that connect on a physical and personal level in any part of the world,” says Camila Sarasty.

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January 9, 2023

Inspiritus Creations Luxury Accessories to Debut at Couture Fashion Week New York

Luxury accessories designer Suzanne Houston Simms will make her debut at Couture Fashion Week New York along with fashion designer Doriana Rosca for the Waletty label. Part of the 37th season of the prestigious event, the show will be held at 4 pm on Sunday February 5, 2023 at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City.

Suzanne Houston Simms, a renowned fashion jewelry artist, is presenting her latest exclusive luxury eyewear couture and jewelry designs, a private signature collection called IC-Cocktails, under her Inspiritus Creations brand, in retro Hollywood glam and glory and Casino Royale style.

A native of Sweden, Suzanne was inspired by her parents from an early age in her lifelong interest in music, entertainment and fashion. After graduating from the Academy of Apparel and Fashion Design, she moved to New York City and attended the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). She went on to launch her fashion haute couture business specializing in hand painted silks for her luxury evening wear private signature collections. She picked up client accounts with casino boutiques in Las Vegas, as well as Saks Fifth Avenue and Hollywood celebrities.

After returning to Europe, Suzanne worked in the beauty industry. Now back in the USA, she is based in Florida and is inspired by the wonders of nature and her spiritual beliefs connected to positive energy and love. Inspiritus Creations focuses on unique fashion statements of beauty and strength for powerful women, with bold and chunky “bling” style. In her Florida art studio, Suzanne uses sparkling European crystal elements with mirrored cubes and plates creating 3D-effects mixed with pearls and the brilliance of colored glass crystals. Many of her creations feature the Maltese cross, expressing the artist’s faith in Christ. Suzanne shares a story and message in each collection; recent collections are Mind Body and Soul, Blue Therapy, Sun Explosions, Pearls of Hope, Manhattan Skyline Windows, Mirrored Reflections and Gratitude and IC-Bijou pour les Yeux.

Inspiritus Creations has been featured in a bestselling music video by Robbie Rivera, as well as at Milan Fashion Week, and at major events in Paris and Stockholm.

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