Jesse Lee Designs has been named Emerging Designer of the Year at NJ MODA Week 2026, recognizing the New York-based fashion house for its distinctive approach to couture, wearable art, and narrative-driven fashion design.
Founded by designer Jesse Lee, the brand is known for architectural silhouettes, dramatic runway presentations, and collections that merge fashion, fantasy, and artistic storytelling.
As a first-generation American of Dominican heritage raised in the Bronx, Jesse Lee brings a unique cultural perspective to his work, drawing from personal experiences, artistic influences, and a passion for storytelling to create collections that challenge convention and celebrate transformation.
The award follows the presentation of XII: SHINJU, a collection inspired by the Shinju characters of the manga series Boruto: Two Blue Vortex. Translating the visual language and symbolism of the series into couture and wearable art, the collection explores themes of transformation, identity, mythology, and power through bold construction, asymmetrical forms, eyelet detailing, metal hardware, and layered silhouettes.
Jesse Lee
Drawing inspiration from both visual art and music, Lee approaches fashion as a multidisciplinary creative practice. His background as a musician and violinist informs the rhythm, movement, and emotional atmosphere present throughout his collections and runway presentations.
Jesse Lee Designs has been featured in publications including Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour Bulgaria, Fashion Week Online, and other international fashion magazines, while continuing to expand across runway, editorial, and creative collaborations.
Earlier this year, Jesse Lee was also selected as one of 34 nominees in The Devil Wears Prada Fashion Design Competition, further highlighting the growing recognition of his work within the fashion industry.
Designer Statement
“XII: SHINJU was born from my fascination with transformation, identity, and the stories we carry within ourselves. Drawing inspiration from the Shinju characters of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, the collection became a way to explore how fashion can embody narrative, power, and personal evolution. Being named Emerging Designer of the Year validates years of creative exploration and encourages me to continue pushing the boundaries between fashion, art, and storytelling.”
About Jesse Lee Designs
Founded in New York by designer Jesse Lee, Jesse Lee Designs is an independent fashion house specializing in couture, avant-garde design, editorial fashion, and wearable art. Drawing inspiration from anime, manga, fantasy storytelling, and character design in video games, the brand is known for architectural silhouettes, dramatic construction, and narrative-driven collections. Through runway presentations, editorial projects, and custom commissions, Jesse Lee Designs merges fashion, fantasy, and cinematic storytelling into distinctive wearable works of art.
