This New York Fashion Week, Flying Solo continued its tradition of showcasing the most innovative and emerging designers from across the globe.
Against the dramatic backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline, the event took place on the terrace of 22 Vanderbilt, offering unparalleled views of two of New York’s most iconic landmarks: the Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building. The setting added an extra layer of grandeur and elegance to what has become one of the most anticipated shows at NYFW.
The runway featured collections from over 60 designers, offering a stunning spectrum of fashion—from bold ready-to-wear designs to ethereal couture gowns. Each piece told its own story, reflecting the vision and craftsmanship of its creator. Flying Solo’s platform allowed these talented individuals to share their artistry with the world, giving guests an exclusive look at trends that are set to influence the fashion landscape.
A key architect behind the show’s cohesive vision was head stylist Alina Kotsiuba, who masterfully created top-notch looks by merging designs from different creators. This year’s show was a true testament to Flying Solo’s collaborative ethos—where designers and fashion professionals come together to create something greater than the sum of their individual contributions. Kotsiuba’s eye for detail and seamless fusion of styles was evident in every look, further emphasizing Flying Solo’s commitment to innovation and unity in fashion.
Flying Solo has established itself not only as a platform but as a community where the best fashion professionals—designers, stylists, photographers, and more—come together to push creative boundaries. As a well-known hub of collaboration, Flying Solo continues to elevate the independent fashion scene, giving emerging designers the tools and visibility they need to succeed on a global stage.
The stunning imagery from the show was captured by industry leaders, including Getty Images, Mariya Nicole @mariyanicolemvp, Alex Callejo (@ac_photography_chicago), Kandavelu Murugavelu (@kanthanclips), and Bairma Gyndunova (@ba_irma), ensuring that every breathtaking moment from the runway was immortalized in both photos and videos.
Undertop
Founded by businesswoman and creative director Juliana Mansur, Undertop is a women’s fashion brand that introduces a bold, new way of dressing. Specializing in bodysuits and tops, the brand embraces fashion as a tool for self-acceptance and empowerment, celebrating the beauty of the female body in all its diverse forms. With a contemporary approach, Juliana Mansur designs pieces that help women express confidence and individuality.
Undertop’s presence extends beyond the runway, with a flagship store in Iguatemi São Paulo, a thriving e-commerce platform, and numerous collections showcased at New York Fashion Week. The brand’s commitment to empowerment runs deep, as it partners with the NGO Nova Mulher to offer entrepreneurship education for women. This initiative reflects the brand’s mission to create more than just fashion—Undertop fosters opportunities for women to grow personally and professionally.
Define The Line
In 2017, Define the Line was founded by a former personal trainer who noticed a common issue with workout tights and set out to create a solution. The brand’s mission is to provide women with high-quality activewear that empowers them to embrace their inner strength and feel confident in their own skin. The mantra “unleash the strong-minded woman within you” is at the core of Define the Line, encouraging women to be unapologetically themselves.
The inspiration for the latest collection comes from the stunning landscapes of Iceland, featuring earthy tones from mossy greens to volcanic blacks. This collection blends femininity with minimalism, offering timeless styles perfect for both workouts and everyday wear.
For those looking to start their own fashion brand, the founder’s advice is simple: just start. Perfection isn’t necessary from the beginning—growth and experience will come along the way. Trust in the process and take that first step.
Jalayimiya Swim
Brodie George, founder of Jalayimiya Swim, is a Walmajarri/Gooniyandi woman from Fitzroy Crossing in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Jalayimiya Swim is a celebration of Aboriginal culture, body positivity, and eco-conscious practices. Each swimwear design features artwork hand-painted by Brodie, inspired by the vibrant colors of her Western desert roots. Committed to sustainability, her brand embraces slow fashion with small collection releases using recycled fabrics.
Brodie’s passion for swimwear began in her youth, but it wasn’t until 2022 that she launched Jalayimiya Swim, blending her love for fashion and her heritage. The brand encourages women to appreciate their unique beauty and fosters pride in Aboriginal culture. Collections are created with community input, making each release personal and meaningful. Brodie’s advice for aspiring designers is simple: trust the timing, do your research, and start small if needed—dedication will lead to success.
Melanie Parker International LLC
Melanie Parker is the designer and founder of Melanie Parker International, LLC, a fashion brand that embraces bold colors and classic-meets-modern styles. Inspired by the tragic loss of her cousin Michael in 2022, Melanie reignited her childhood passion for design and used it as a way to heal and express herself creatively.
Her brand focuses on vibrant, colorful designs with unique splits and slants, incorporating her signature “M” initial. The upcoming collection, aligned with 2024 trends, features high-quality, sustainable materials. Melanie’s advice to aspiring designers is to explore their style deeply, research extensively, and follow their passion with confidence.
Will Gates II
Will Gates II, the founder and creative behind his eponymous brand, is a 21-year-old designer from Genoa, IL. His brand, Will Gates II, focuses on storytelling through avant-garde designs, combining graphics, historical references, and architectural influences. The brand embodies The Neo Era, a new age where freedom and pushing creative boundaries are at the forefront. Each piece reflects his philosophy of blending design principles with a strong narrative focus.
Inspired by his studies in product design, Will found a natural overlap between architecture and fashion, leading him to create clothing that expresses inclusivity, storytelling, and the art of making. His latest collection, The Epoch, explores pivotal moments in time, using architecture, graffiti, and historical art movements to redefine the perception of wearable garments. Will advises aspiring designers to develop a unique story, learn from mentors, and create a signature element in every design that represents their brand’s identity.
No Bias
Rose, the designer behind NO BiAS, leads a brand that fuses streetwear with couture, focusing on unfiltered expression and luxury. What started as a bold fashion show to cap off her college career has since grown into a dynamic label that embraces imperfection and individuality.
NO BiAS is rooted in the idea of “chaos meets luxury,” offering guilt-free fashion that resonates with its audience’s real, imperfect selves. The latest collection marks a pivotal moment for the brand, as it expands from streetwear into couture, with a strong focus on sustainability and meaningful design. Rose’s advice to aspiring designers is simple: stop making excuses and start where you are, because passion will always draw support.
Trillionaire
Arjun Singh, a Dubai-based Indian luxury entrepreneur, is the founder and creative mind behind Trillionaire, a luxury streetwear brand. Inspired by his design education in Milan and his diverse industry background, Arjun created Trillionaire to reflect abundance—not of wealth, but of thoughts, vision, and personal growth. The brand blends minimalist design with a focus on sustainability, offering timeless luxury for fashion-forward individuals.
Trillionaire’s latest collection, Trillionaire Trash, debuted at NYFW. It challenges conventional notions of luxury by highlighting overconsumption and environmental issues, while delivering sophisticated designs using sustainable materials. Arjun’s advice for aspiring designers is to stay true to your vision, find your purpose, and create a brand that stands for something beyond aesthetics.
Aveeation
Aveeation is a dynamic fashion brand that blends culture, nostalgia, and innovation, founded in 2018 by Avee Charles, a first-generation Jamaican-American from Philadelphia. Drawing inspiration from the 90s and early 2000s entertainment eras that shaped Avee’s childhood, the brand merges streetwear with contemporary fashion trends. Aveeation gained significant momentum in 2022 through its collaboration with SHEIN, with the Shein X Aveeation collection becoming a top seller in women’s co-ords. Media attention from Fox News, NBC, and fashion publications further solidified its presence in the industry. In Fall 2023, Avee Charles launched the “We Are The Trends” campaign, highlighting emerging and established fashion stylists, which reinforced Aveeation’s position as a trailblazer in the ready-to-wear market.
Rooted in two core principles—Eclecticism and Elevation—Aveeation pulls inspiration from music, art, and culture to craft unique designs that resonate with diverse tastes. The brand is dedicated to elevating minority creatives and breaking industry barriers, as demonstrated by its partnership with SHEIN and its commitment to supporting underrepresented voices in fashion. The “We Are The Trends” campaign underscores this mission, featuring stylists with celebrity clientele and renowned editorial work. Aveeation aims to be more than just a fashion brand; it strives to empower communities, fostering a space for creative expression and advocacy, where fashion serves as a platform for connection and elevation.
Mrs Momma Bear Workwear
Mrs. Momma Bear Workwear was founded by a fifth-generation rancher from West Texas, now based between San Antonio and Aspen. Inspired by her lifestyle, where she balances life on the family ranch with everyday extravagances, the founder saw a need for clothing that combined function, comfort, and style. Tired of compromising between beauty and utility, she created Mrs. Momma Bear Workwear—a line that allows women to move through their busy days without sacrificing style, featuring pieces made from luxury athletic fabric that offer stretch, comfort, and durability.
The brand’s concept is to provide women with functional, beautiful clothing that can handle everything from work to social events. Mrs. Momma Bear Workwear features versatile jumpsuits, three-piece suits, and dresses (coming soon!), all of which are machine washable and perfect for travel. Each piece is inspired by personal touches, like a sequined gown or a fringe jacket from her mother’s Rodeo Queen days. Her new Love Letters collection debuts in Times Square, showcasing a unique twist and storytelling through fashion. Her advice to aspiring designers? Dream big, work hard, and never let anyone hold you back.
Petra Poórová
Petra Poórová, born and raised in Bratislava, Slovakia, is the founder and designer behind Petra Poórová_Fashion Studio. With a Master’s degree in Fashion Design from the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava, she launched her brand in 2005. Known for her minimalist designs, custom textiles, and original prints, Petra crafts limited collections that blend quality craftsmanship with playful, artistic details. Now based in Chicago, she continues to mentor emerging talent and bring her innovative approach to the local fashion scene, all while maintaining a focus on creating sophisticated yet contemporary pieces.
Inspired by her work with global brands like ESCADA, Petra founded her brand to merge European minimalist elegance with playful, innovative elements. Her latest collection, inspired by the contrast between European heritage and Chicago’s vibrant street style, blends refined European aesthetics with bold American streetwear energy. Petra’s advice to aspiring designers is to stay true to their vision, embrace learning, and use their background to create authentic, lasting designs.
Francini_K
Francine Keiser, the visionary behind the brand Francini_K, designs fashion that is both vibrant and empowering, tailored for active women who seek to feel confident and radiant throughout their day. Her collections combine a sense of geometric precision with playful, uplifting colors, creating pieces that are as stylish as they are functional. By using luxurious materials such as high-quality Italian wool and silk, Francine infuses her designs with sensuality and sophistication, ensuring that every garment feels as good as it looks. Her fashion embodies the perfect balance of elegance and joy, allowing women to embrace their beauty while feeling comfortable and chic.
Designed in Luxembourg and produced across Europe, Francini_K stands out for its distinctive blend of classic fabrics with innovative, technical materials. Francine’s unique approach to fashion brings a fresh twist to timeless elegance, offering glamorous, statement-making dresses that leave a lasting impression wherever they are worn. Her creative use of texture and form ensures that every piece not only captures attention but also provides the wearer with a sense of individuality and distinction. With Francini_K, Francine Keiser has created a brand that celebrates the modern woman, offering clothing that is both sophisticated and effortlessly beautiful.
Pineda Covalin
Pineda Covalin is a luxury Mexican fashion brand founded in 1996 by Cristina Pineda and Ricardo Covalin. The brand is renowned for its use of silk textiles to celebrate and promote Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Inspired by pre-Hispanic mythology, Mexican nature, and traditional architecture, Pineda Covalin creates vibrant designs that reflect the essence of Latin American history and art. Their iconic products, which include scarves, ties, and other accessories, are often adorned with motifs that pay homage to Mexican customs and traditions. Over the years, Pineda Covalin has expanded internationally, with its products available in various countries and collaborations with global institutions.
Pineda Covalin’s mission extends beyond fashion, aiming to bridge cultural gaps by showcasing the splendor of Latin America through modern design. The brand is celebrated for its contributions to the world of high fashion, having dressed prominent figures like Karolina Kurkova and Salma Hayek. Additionally, Pineda Covalin regularly collaborates on philanthropic efforts, such as partnerships with organizations like World Vision, further emphasizing their commitment to supporting marginalized communities in Latin America. Through their exquisite designs, Pineda Covalin not only highlights the beauty of Mexican culture but also empowers artisans and creatives across the region
Bonitta Concept
Miriam Memun, founder of Bonitta Concept, created her 100% Mexican brand to express the beauty of fashion as art. Based in Mexico City, Bonitta specializes in handmade garments that embody meaning and emotion, allowing wearers to communicate through style.
Miriam’s passion for fashion began during a semester abroad, where she discovered her love for creating garments. Her brand stands for expression and individuality, emphasizing the importance of fashion that resonates deeply with its wearer. Her advice to aspiring designers is to trust your passion, start small, and make sure your brand has a clear purpose.
ELJ Avenue
Von Perez is the founder of ELJ Avenue, a women’s clothing brand inspired by her faith and driven by the desire to empower women to embrace their authentic selves. Since its inception four years ago, ELJ Avenue has grown into a brand that offers a wide variety of styles for women from all walks of life, providing options for those who don’t always want to dress up but still want to feel confident and beautiful. The brand’s mission is to be a trusted name in fashion, offering superior customer service and building a loyal community of customers.
The inspiration behind Von’s latest collection is her personal journey through life, reflecting both the highs and lows, and the moments of joy and pain. She aims to create designs that women can see themselves in, imagining where they would wear them and how they would feel. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay consistent and persistent, trust in God’s strength, and keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges.
Maison Clad
Coralie Francois, the visionary behind Maison Clad and WhiteHello, transitioned from being a fashion buyer for luxury labels like Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney to shaping the fashion landscape in Dubai. Maison Clad was created from her desire to introduce her favorite European brands to the Middle East, curating a selection of 40 emerging designers, many of which are offered exclusively through her boutique. In 2022, she took her expertise further by launching her own label, WhiteHello, which draws inspiration from the thousands of customer interactions at her stores. This label focuses on providing weekly, limited capsule collections, designed to offer uniqueness and exclusivity.
WhiteHello is built around principles of sustainability and craftsmanship, with every piece handmade in Dubai. The brand prides itself on creating elegant, limited-edition designs that can transition seamlessly from morning to night, while also reducing waste by repurposing leftover fabrics into accessories. Coralie’s focus on femininity, texture, and color resonates throughout her collection, making women feel empowered in all settings. Her advice to up-and-coming fashion entrepreneurs is to remain customer-focused, using that as a guiding principle in every decision, from brand storytelling to the final design.
Elody’s Addictions
Elody, based in Christchurch, New Zealand, is the founder of three unique brands: Elody’s Addictions, Dollsy, and her newest venture, BLEAK Apparel. After leaving design school and briefly working in the industry, Elody found that the lack of creative freedom left her unfulfilled. In her late twenties, she made the bold decision to create art through fashion, focusing on one-of-a-kind pieces that encourage wearers to embrace their uniqueness and stand out confidently.
Elody’s brands defy the concept of seasonal trends, focusing instead on timeless, handmade pieces that celebrate individuality. Her latest collection for BLEAK Apparel was born from a period of grief and creative struggle, but the opportunity from Flying Solo reignited her passion. Dedicated to Max, this collection reflects her personal journey and is a symbol of growth and rediscovered purpose. Elody advises aspiring designers to be resilient, believe in themselves, and follow their dreams unapologetically.
Sorority
Sorority Clothing, an Australian fashion label founded by Cara, was born from a deep love for timeless, classic designs and the bonds formed through true friendships and global travels. Specializing in creating pieces that blend elegance with comfort, Sorority Clothing sources its fabrics from the renowned Liberty Fabrics factory in Lake Como, Italy. Each garment is carefully designed to flatter the figure while ensuring a comfortable fit, making these pieces essential additions to any wardrobe for the long term.
The brand’s mission goes beyond fashion, focusing on building meaningful relationships with its customers through high-quality, lasting pieces that transcend trends. Sorority Clothing aims to help individuals express themselves with confidence and style while preserving connections between people through shared fashion experiences. Whether through their online store or the physical boutique in Queensland, the label is dedicated to providing garments that empower wearers and create lasting memories with every outfit.
Dressed In Joy
Mikaela Pabon, the founder of Dressed in Joy, has successfully blended her love for fashion and Hawaii into a bold, vibrant apparel line that radiates positivity and confidence. As a designer passionate about statement-making clothing, Mikaela’s brand focuses on bringing joy and personality into everyday wear, particularly through her vibrant hoodies and athleisure pieces. Drawing inspiration from Hawaii’s colors and patterns, she aims to inspire women to embrace new styles, mix prints, and confidently express themselves through their wardrobes.
Founded with the mission of empowering women through fashion, Dressed in Joy has become a go-to for those seeking clothing that not only stands out but also promotes self-confidence. With each design, Mikaela ensures that her customers feel the excitement and joy she herself feels during the creative process. Her pieces are designed to make women feel beautiful and empowered, infusing elements of bold prints and vibrant color into modern athleisure. Whether online or in person, Dressed in Joy serves as a reminder that fashion is more than just clothing—it’s about feeling good and radiating positivity in every step
Roxana
Roxana Castro’s foray into fashion was driven by an innate curiosity about clothes, design, and the art of fashion itself. For her, becoming a designer was an inevitability; however, the journey to realizing that dream was not straightforward. Before it became a reality, Roxana had to align her mindset with her aspirations. Life’s trials and the opportunity to cultivate different skills shaped her values and beliefs. Yet, through all these experiences, the desire to pursue fashion grew stronger and more defined, leading to the birth of her brand.
The essence of Roxana by Roxana Castro lies in offering women the freedom to explore the different facets of their identities. The brand captures both the fierce and the romantic, providing reflections of who women are and who they have the potential to be. Roxana’s latest collection, in particular, embodies her personal transformation and rebirth. Without adhering to a specific pattern or trend, her designs arose naturally, capturing the ideas that piqued her interest and refused to let go. This collection holds special significance as it marks her debut in the fashion world.
To those aspiring to start their own fashion brand, Roxana offers straightforward advice: “Just start.” She emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s true desires and identity while avoiding overthinking the process. “Work to your strengths, prepare for the long road ahead, delegate what you can’t handle, and educate yourself on what you don’t know,” she advises, underscoring the resilience and discipline required to make one’s fashion dreams a reality.
BRÉLAN
BRÉLAN is a unique fashion and art brand with a global perspective, offering a variety of designer items and services, including clothing, murals, furniture, and customization. Founded as a limited liability company, BRÉLAN embraces glamour while focusing on personalization and inclusivity in its collections.
The brand is marketed and narrated through the personas of five hand-drawn dolls, which embody spirituality, diversity, and new beauty standards. These dolls not only serve as pillars of strength for the brand but also represent its mission to reimagine a world that is “inclusive, exclusive, and in the now.” They work to promote both BRÉLAN and other large companies through their illustrations, creating a blend of fashion, art, and storytelling.
BRÉLAN’s collection can be explored on their official website, where customers can also collaborate on custom designer items or enjoy various forms of art, including murals and canvas paintings. The brand prioritizes creativity and aims to offer pieces that resonate with its inclusive ethos.
PIA BOLTE FASHION
Pia Bolte, the designer behind Pia Bolte Couture, began her journey in 2010 with Herzi Dirndl, creating traditional Bavarian dresses. After successful years, Pia transitioned into designing one-of-a-kind, handmade jackets with a rock star flair, giving birth to PIA BOLTE Couture. Her bold, unique designs quickly gained attention, and by 2017, Pia was showcasing her collections in major fashion cities like NYC, LA, Miami, Paris, and London, catching the eyes of celebrities.
In 2023, Pia expanded her brand with a new streetwear line, making her distinctive style accessible to everyone. Her affordable Streetstyle-Line embodies her signature edge and creativity, offering fashionable pieces for everyday wear.
The Fur and Leather Centre
The Fur & Leather Centre is renowned as the largest and most trusted provider of top-quality, sustainable, and luxurious fur and leather fashion in North America. Their offerings range from everyday wear to high-end seasonal collections, tailored for those who seek natural elegance and warmth year-round.
With a focus on sustainability and innovative fashion, the brand’s selection emphasizes style, quality, and artisan craftsmanship. Each piece, whether fur or leather, reflects the brand’s commitment to producing elevated fashion with an exceptional value. From their ethically sourced materials to their exclusive designs, The Fur & Leather Centre continues to redefine luxury in the fur and leather fashion industry.
Moena Moxham
Art and luxury are inseparable, and Moena Moxham has mastered this pairing through her exquisite cashmere scarves. Inspired by her travels through India, Kashmir, and Asia, where she was captivated by traditional and modern textile techniques, Moena collaborated with local artisans to source the finest cashmere for her designs. With an Honours Degree in Textile Design, she employs penetrative dye techniques to create scarves that are the same on both sides – a rare technical feat. Her pieces reflect a commitment to sustainability, ethical production, and craftsmanship, using cashmere that softens and improves with age.
Moxham’s scarves are trans-seasonal, versatile, and designed to last. They can be styled as a dress, top, shawl, or even as a cozy blanket for travel. Each piece is unisex and transgenerational, embodying a timeless aesthetic for the minimalist traveler or fashionista. To complement the luxury of her scarves, Moena has designed eco-conscious packaging that can be repurposed for storing keepsakes. Every design is released in limited editions, adding an element of exclusivity to this sustainable, luxurious accessory.
Equalshuman
Equalshuman is a New York-based fashion brand founded by Jess Licata, Alison Vitolo, and Jodi Ingham, driven by a powerful ethos of community, sustainability, and inclusivity. Launched in the Bronx in 2017, the brand strives to capture the spirit of New York City while creating high-end and economically accessible collections that reflect their mission: “We are all equal.” Their designs use vibrant colors and graffiti-inspired art, resonating with the diverse landscapes of New York.
The brand stands out for its commitment to creating clothing as “sustainable works of art.” Licata, a self-taught artist, crafts original designs that are hand-painted or printed onto garments, adding a unique, artistic dimension to each piece. The founders’ backgrounds in art, fashion, and garment construction shape their approach to design and community building. They aim to create fashion that not only reflects human experiences but also fosters a sense of unity and belonging.
Equalshuman emphasizes giving back, with part of its sales supporting community enrichment. This ethos has driven them to become a movement that supports sustainability, community, and diversity, as seen in their participation in New York Fashion Week and Art Basel. The brand also engages in philanthropic initiatives, such as “Thanksgiving in Harlem,” reinforcing their commitment to social impact
Monzlapur
Monzlapur is a New York-based fashion label known for its elevated urban wear and gender-fluid clothing. The brand focuses on breaking traditional boundaries of gender and ethnicity, offering a fluid and timeless aesthetic. Founded by Mona Hamid, a biochemistry graduate of Sudanese origin who grew up in Abu Dhabi, Monzlapur represents a blend of eastern flair and New York’s urban underground scene.
The brand offers both womenswear and unisex collections, including ready-to-wear pieces and limited-edition designs. Its texture-focused approach features versatile shirts, tops, bottoms, and dresses that seamlessly transition from day to night. Monzlapur’s vision is to create attire that not only challenges norms but also celebrates diversity and inclusivity.
DK L’atelier
Dominique Kohlmeyer is the founder of DK L’atelier, a brand born from her desire to create clothing that is more expressive and creative than what she could find in her country. After receiving compliments on her personal designs, she decided to turn her passion into a brand. DK L’atelier blends the rebellious spirit of Gothic and Punk influences from the 70s with the drama and high-fashion aesthetics of the late 90s and early 2000s, showcasing the duality of good and bad in its designs.
Her latest collection, inspired by rebellion in fashion, aims to bring back sass and rock ‘n’ roll, defining the blueprint for DK L’atelier. Dominique’s advice for aspiring brand owners is to work hard, put in the hours, and continually create until you find your identity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side, as it’s just as crucial as the creative side for long-term success.
Maison Beast
Maison Beast is a premium streetwear brand based in Estonia, founded by a team of creatives: CEO and Creative Director Michael Burich, Head of Tech & Innovation Kaido Põldma, and Head Designer Kristiina. The brand’s ethos is all about bold self-expression, offering clothing and lifestyle products like jewelry and accessories for those who choose to stand out from the crowd. The name “Maison Beast” reflects the brand’s goal of building a creative house for fashion, music, and more.
The founders, with backgrounds in design and music, wanted to create a brand that blends these two worlds. Maison Beast offers daring designs that capture high fashion with streetwear influences. The latest collection, featuring a mix of ready-to-wear and one-of-a-kind runway looks, highlights the brand’s use of signature colors and fabrics to create haute couture streetwear. Their advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to be unique, persistent, and patient, while always striving to create fashion that shows effort, thought, and heart.
Moth Couture
Maria Saar, the artist and visionary behind Moth Couture, introduces herself as the creative force behind a unique blend of latex and fine knits. Based in Munich, Germany, Maria draws inspiration from the city’s rich culture and natural landscapes, crafting wearable art that combines bold, unconventional materials with delicate craftsmanship. Her label, Moth Couture, emphasizes timeless, high-quality fashion, challenging the norms of fast fashion through thoughtful and sustainable design.
Moth Couture stands apart by focusing on exclusivity and durability, with each piece crafted as a unique work of art. Maria’s designs reflect her journey from studying haute couture to discovering the captivating material of latex, blending it with luxurious knits to create innovative, avant-garde fashion. Maria’s approach encourages a conscious relationship with clothing, offering pieces that demand care and appreciation. Her advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs centers on self-belief and trusting your instincts, staying true to your vision despite external pressures.
Salisa
Salisa Cheewapansri is the founder and creative director of SALISA, a womenswear brand that started in 2014. Initially launched as a project during her time at Parsons, SALISA has since grown into a sustainable company with a wide following. Inspired by the energy of New York City, the brand curates a collection tailored for modern women—professional, confident, and effortlessly stylish.
SALISA’s concept is about creating everyday clothing with a distinctive edge, designed for women who exude ambition, taste, and confidence. The latest collection, “Odd Anomaly,” reflects Salisa’s personal experience of feeling like she didn’t fully fit in—being too “white-washed” for her Thai crowd and too Asian for her American friends. The collection symbolizes the journey of finding balance and embracing one’s uniqueness while confidently standing out.
Montes
Jeffrey Montes is the creative director and founder of the fashion brand Montes. Inspired by his family’s rich craftsmanship heritage—his grandmother made her own wedding dress and his grandfather was a talented craftsman—Jeffrey has always been driven to become a fashion designer. After graduating from the Academy of Arts, he set out to make his dream a reality.
At Montes, the focus is on creating unique materials, working directly with yarn and textile producers to bring Jeffrey’s vision of shapes and textures to life. The brand blends technical knowledge with experimental imagination, treating each garment as a sculptural piece. His latest collection, Marinero, is deeply personal, inspired by his journey to his grandparents’ birthplace and the sunsets of Salobreña and La Rabita. The gradient textiles of the collection evoke the gentle waves of the sea, a tribute to his fisherman grandfather. His advice to aspiring designers: love what you do, stay resilient, and never give up on your dreams.
Imurani
Imrane Shurdhani is the founder and creative director of Imurani, a contemporary fashion brand known for its sustainable practices and blend of classic elegance with modern trends. Imrane’s passion for fashion and desire to create something unique drove him to start Imurani, where every piece is handmade with care and attention to detail.
The brand’s concept revolves around pushing the boundaries of fashion, merging art, creativity, and individuality. Imurani challenges the status quo by creating bold, unconventional, and thought-provoking pieces that blur the lines between fashion and art. The latest collection, Sense of Wonder, is inspired by the magic of everyday moments, designed to evoke curiosity and joy with its use of white fabrics and colorful yarns. Imrane’s advice to aspiring designers is to follow their passion, stay fearless, and persist in their creative journey.
Sadie James Hat Co
Sadie James takes custom hat-making to the next level, transforming each piece into a unique work of art. Their process begins with a personalized consultation in their Nashville studio or virtually via Zoom. This hour-long session allows clients to explore various shapes, colors, and fits, ensuring the design aligns perfectly with their vision. After the consultation, the design team, equipped with extensive training in hat-making and art, meticulously handcrafts the hat over 8-10 weeks. Each piece is bespoke, reflecting the wearer’s personal style and story.
Artistic excellence is the hallmark of Sadie James, with a focus on originality, luxury, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a timeless heirloom, a standout piece for an event, or an everyday staple, every hat is tailored to perfection. The final product undergoes a thorough quality check to ensure the ideal fit and finish. Customers are encouraged to share their unique pieces on social media, showcasing the brand’s commitment to individual expression and style.
By combining traditional hat-making techniques with modern artistry, Sadie James provides an exclusive experience, offering unmatched service and attention to detail. With their extensive skill set, the design team can craft hats in any color, cut, or finish, bringing the client’s dream hat to life.
ANDREA QUEZADA
Andrea Quezada, a 24-year-old fashion designer from Querétaro, Mexico, founded her eponymous brand with a passion for blending luxury fashion and Mexican cultural heritage. Inspired by surrealism and avant-garde aesthetics, Andrea works closely with local artisans, incorporating ancestral techniques into her designs.
Her latest collection draws from the traditional Mexican art of talavera pottery, merging cultural craftsmanship with high fashion. Andrea’s advice to aspiring designers is to stay focused, embrace challenges, and remain dedicated to their vision.
Glam Collection
Glam Collections is a childrenswear brand dedicated to creating unique designs for every occasion. With a focus on helping children express themselves and build confidence, the brand offers a range of styles that ensure every child stands out. Each design is carefully crafted to be both stylish and comfortable, making it easy for children to feel special whether they’re attending a formal event or enjoying everyday play.
Committed to establishing a globally recognized brand, Glam Collections aims to provide clothing that resonates with diverse cultures and tastes. Their mission is to create a line of children’s fashion that is accepted and loved by families worldwide, highlighting the individuality and confidence of every child who wears their designs.
Hiromi Asai
Hiromi Asai is a United States-based fashion designer and kimono stylist who specializes in creating exclusive styles using high-end Japanese kimono textiles. She is passionate about preserving the rich tradition of kimono craftsmanship and bringing it to the forefront of modern fashion. Each piece in her collection is thoughtfully crafted from luxurious kimono fabrics, showcasing the intricate motifs, designs, and forms that have made kimonos a unique garment for over 1,000 years.
The art of kimono creation in Japan is currently facing a crisis due to the declining market, an aging generation of artisans, and a lack of successors. Hiromi Asai is determined to reverse this trend by introducing kimono textiles to global fashion. She initially launched her women’s fashion line at the 2016 F/W New York Fashion Week with the Hiromi Asai & Kimono Artisan Kyoto collection, which was well-received worldwide. Now, her collection has expanded to include menswear, continuing to provide clients with outfits of the highest quality, crafted from sophisticated and elegant fabrics.
FG TOMASSI
Flavia FG Tomassi, a Rome-based costume and fashion designer, comes from a family of artisans. Her grandfather was a renowned tailor for 1950s Hollywood stars, and her father recreates ancient Roman armor. Flavia inherited this passion, specializing in historical costumes and prêt-à-porter fashion, while also experimenting with alternative materials like latex and resin.
While she doesn’t see herself as a typical fashion brand, Flavia draws inspiration from art, history, and iconic designers like McQueen, Mugler, and Schiaparelli. Her work blends baroque elegance with modern eccentricity, reflecting a cyclical view of fashion. Her goal is to evoke strong emotions, whether awe or curiosity, and her shows often break from the conventional runway, involving audience participation.
Flavia’s latest collection merges historical costume with punk and gender-fluid elements, reimagining a bold, eccentric Marie Antoinette for the modern age. Her advice to aspiring designers is to stay passionate, persevere, and remember that “Volere è Potere” (Where there’s a will, there’s a way).
Mahogani Collections
Mahogani Collections, established in 2016 by a mother-daughter duo, began with a passion for creating custom jewelry pieces for both men and women. By 2019, the brand had expanded into custom clothing, quickly gaining recognition in the fashion industry. Their exquisite jewelry has been worn by notable celebrities such as Lil Scrappy, Rotimi, Omarion, and Jidenna, and has been featured in various fashion magazines. The brand’s clothing line has graced prestigious runways, including Michigan Fashion Week, as well as fashion shows in New York and London.
The brand draws inspiration from the founders’ shared love for fashion, with the name “Mahogani” paying tribute to their favorite movie, Mahogany. Their mission is to help individuals stand out and express their unique style. The latest collection is designed with the goal of making women feel extraordinary, featuring distinct details that set each piece apart. Their advice to aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to remain focused on their dreams, create a solid plan, and never give up.
Nora Isle
Mariann Saar is the founder of Nora Isle, a fashion brand established two years ago with a focus on elegant designs for confident women. The brand embodies timeless style with a modern twist, offering pieces that empower individuals to express their unique personalities. Nora Isle’s mission is to provide versatile clothing that seamlessly transitions from day to night, combining classic cuts with formal elegance for any occasion.
Inspired by a desire for a new direction after a career in the restaurant industry, Mariann launched Nora Isle with determination and a belief in her creative vision. The brand prioritizes timeless appeal over fleeting trends, using striking fabrics and special details that make each piece stand out. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to believe in themselves and their vision, focusing solely on success without a plan B.
StarcoutureClothing
Starcouture is a fashion brand based in Parkville, Maryland, offering a diverse range of custom clothing, accessories, and services. Their product line includes custom garments, body shapers, shirts, and hats, emphasizing unique styles tailored to individual preferences. They also provide sewing classes, showcasing their commitment to fashion education and craftsmanship.
At the heart of Starcouture is a focus on personalization, offering custom garment consultations to create pieces that reflect each client’s style. With a variety of options and a customer-centric approach, the brand stands out in the fashion industry.
Caelina Maximus
CAELINA MAXIMUS is a French luxury brand known for its exquisite shoes and accessories, crafted entirely in France using traditional techniques. Founded by Céline Maxence, the brand embodies a unique identity aimed at empowering women to confidently showcase their individuality. Each design is created with a focus on quality and exclusivity, merging classic French elegance with modern flair.
Rooted in her heritage as a descendant of Lyon’s renowned silk makers, Céline infuses her collections with elements of the French art of living. The brand’s logo, a tribute to Lyon, reflects this rich cultural background and the pride in its origins.
La Dime Atelier
La Dîme Atelier is the brainchild of Irene Yang, a talented fashion designer and artist based in New York. For Irene, couture is more than just clothing; it’s art brought to life by the women who wear it. Originally from Asia, Irene moved to the United States in 2007 in pursuit of the American dream. Her first job in retail allowed her to work closely with women of all body types, giving her a deep understanding of styles that best flatter different figures. This experience inspired her to address the common problem many women face: the lack of customization in fashion. Motivated by the desire to create pieces that allow for true personal expression, she moved to New York City in 2014 to start her journey as a fashion designer.
La Dîme Atelier was founded to revive the elegance of traditional craftsmanship and empower women to express their individuality. Irene’s designs merge her artistic talent with her passion for fashion, transforming garments into wearable artworks. The brand’s concept is rooted in creating emotional value through clothing; Irene believes that when a garment is made with care and love, the wearer can truly feel it. Her upcoming 2025 FW collection draws inspiration from her childhood memories of art, nature, and music. With looks featuring bias cuts, fringe details, and interchangeable separates, her collection celebrates ease of movement and personal history. Irene’s advice to aspiring designers is clear: find a mentor, stay true to your vision, and leverage others’ skills to bring your brand’s message to life.
Almondant
Nonhlanhla Ntuli is the Founder and Creative Director of Almondant Designs, a fashion brand known for blending timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Almondant focuses on creating high-quality, statement pieces that empower individuals to express their unique style, whether on the runway or in everyday life.
Inspired by a deep passion for fashion and individuality, Nonhlanhla’s latest collection, debuting at New York Fashion Week, combines classic tailoring with modern, exotic elements. Luxurious fabrics like tweed and brocade give the collection a sophisticated yet bold edge. Her advice to aspiring fashion designers is to stay true to their vision, focus on quality, and be patient, as success comes with perseverance and authenticity.
Babeyond
Evelyn Tao is the Brand Manager of BABEYOND, a niche women’s fashion brand inspired by the timeless elegance of 1920s fashion. BABEYOND operates through Amazon and its official website, attracting a global following of social media fans who resonate with its vintage aesthetic. The brand is rooted in a passion for the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, particularly influenced by the allure of The Great Gatsby.
The concept behind BABEYOND is to celebrate timeless elegance, encouraging women to “Find Your Vintage” and embrace “Vintage Glamour for Modern Times.” The new collection combines 1920s-inspired designs with modern trends, offering versatile pieces for weddings, parties, and special occasions. Evelyn’s advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to stay focused, find your community, and commit to long-term brand building for success.
Rainier
Derrick Ranier Champion, founder of Ranier, hails from Puerto Rico and was inspired to start his fashion brand through his experiences in global modeling activities with his daughter. His journey into fashion began with a desire to merge elegance with innovation, creating a brand that unveils the world of high-end fashion.
The latest Ranier collection focuses on expanding the brand’s identity, introducing new textures, materials, and a variety of styles. Derrick’s advice to aspiring fashion designers is to stay focused, remain determined, and always keep creativity at the forefront.
The Project Playhouse
Jizhuo Li, the founder and creative mind behind The Project Playhouse, describes herself as a designer, lover, and scholar of fashion. Her brand is an experimental space where she channels her experiences and ideas into dramatic, maximalist garments that focus on the wearer’s experience. The Project Playhouse is known for its fun, colorful, and adjustable pieces that combine structured thought with creative design.
Her latest collection, The Age of Innocence, is inspired by her school experience and the fleeting nature of young adulthood. Drawing on 18th-century womenswear, Jizhuo blends historical accuracy with modern practicality, creating size-adjustable pieces that reflect the imagination and complexity of youth. Her advice for aspiring designers is to be brave and embrace the journey, as the effort you put in will shape who you become.
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FWO
