Milan Fashion Week reached new heights as Flying Solo hosted its inaugural show at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Milano, showcasing the creativity of over 70 emerging talents from across the globe. The event was a celebration of diversity, innovation, and artistry, with collections ranging from contemporary ready-to-wear to opulent evening gowns, all set against the luxurious backdrop of Italian architecture and lush gardens.
The show was expertly styled by Alina Kotsiuba, who curated an eclectic range of looks that merged various fashion elements and accessories, creating captivating, fashion-forward statements. Denim made a powerful appearance with oversized silhouettes paired with mini skirts, offering an edgy yet effortless appeal. These ensembles were complemented by knee-high suede boots and structured, woven handbags, creating a modern aesthetic that exuded confidence and style.
Flowing satin pieces, particularly in bold hues like red, caught the audience’s eye. Wrap dresses moved with elegance, while structured bags added an avant-garde touch that elevated the overall impact of these looks. The runway also embraced soft textures and neutral tones, featuring delicate dresses with ruching and flared hemlines. Oversized bags and platform sandals accompanied these pieces, adding a sense of understated sophistication and versatility.
The show brought a playful, chic vibe with sequin skirts in deep, shimmering tones that dazzled under the runway lights. These looks, paired with refined accessories, struck a balance between modernity and timelessness, appealing to those who seek bold statement pieces. These feminine, fairy-tale looks were completed with strappy metallic heels, embodying the essence of grace and poise.
Florals came to life in floor-length gowns adorned with hand-sewn appliqués. Sheer elements added a whimsical touch, creating a sense of enchantment that captivated the audience. Artisanal craftsmanship was celebrated as denim was redefined with tie-dye effects and frayed detailing on jackets and skirts, presenting a fresh and contemporary take on a classic fabric. These looks showcased a perfect blend of individuality and modernity.
The show concluded with a series of powerful leather pieces featuring structured shoulders and bold lines. Paired with platform boots and edgy accessories, these striking ensembles exuded strength and confidence, leaving a lasting impression on the runway.
Throughout the show, Mariya Nicole, head of photo and video production, captured each moment, utilizing the venue’s historic architecture and lush gardens to frame each look beautifully. The combination of Milanese elegance with the innovative expressions of the collections created a visually captivating experience for the audience.
Flying Solo’s Milan debut not only elevated the standard for showcasing emerging designers but also reinforced the brand’s commitment to talent and sustainability. As the fashion week concluded, the energy, creativity, and unique expressions of these collections left an indelible mark on the Milan fashion scene, signaling an exciting future for these rising stars.
Alijuna
Aurines Romero Lanni, a Venezuelan designer, is the creative force behind ALIJUNA BY AURINES, a fashion brand rooted in uniqueness and environmental consciousness. Aurines founded her brand with a vision to break away from conventional patterns, colors, and combinations found in classic fashion, aiming to disrupt established social paradigms. Her collections focus on dressing irreverently with an artistic mix of textures and colors, featuring upcycled garments that breathe new life into discarded materials—all while preserving the environment.
The concept of ALIJUNA BY AURINES revolves around creating one-of-a-kind, personalized pieces that embody art in fashion, inspiring those who wear them as well as those who see them. The latest collection is centered on upcycling and caring for the planet, offering unique items that challenge traditional limits of color and fashion conventions. Aurines encourages aspiring designers to believe in themselves, find their style, and express it without limits—infusing heart and soul into every piece to make their work truly shine.
AME.M
Andrea Morales and Patricia Veneziano are the co-founders of AME.M, a luxury leather fashion brand that embodies authenticity, innovation, and passion. With over three decades of experience in the fashion industry, Andrea is a seasoned business strategist renowned for her expertise in design, marketing, and sourcing, while Patricia brings her creative vision from her work in the Brazilian audiovisual production scene. Together, they founded AME.M to redefine leather luxury in Brazil, blending Andrea’s chic style with Patricia’s affinity for punk and gothic aesthetics. Their shared passion for creating leather products that transcend generations is at the heart of their brand.
AME.M is driven by a simple yet audacious concept: to create leather pieces that are timeless, exclusive, and leave a lasting impact. Their newest collection is inspired by powerful women, designed to celebrate iconic individuals in everyday life. Andrea and Patricia’s advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to have a solid business plan, understand your market, and seek support where needed. They emphasize that creativity is vital, but selling and planning for the future are key to success in the fashion industry—dream big, but stay grounded.
ANNA MARGARETTE
Founded by Ana Margarida da Silva, also known as Ana Marsersi, Anna Margarette is a fashion brand inspired by creativity, freedom of expression, and personal heritage. Originating from Faial Island in the Azores, Ana’s journey in fashion is rooted in the legacy of her great-grandmother, grandmother, and mother—all talented seamstresses and artisans who passed down their passion for craft. Since its debut at London Fashion Week in 2013, Anna Margarette has presented collections at major events like New York and Paris Fashion Week, with each collection reflecting an artistic, boundary-pushing approach that challenges traditional shapes, textures, and ideas.
The brand’s latest collection, “Soulless,” delves deeply into the struggle of mental health, portraying both despair and hope through dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, asymmetric forms, and bold color contrasts. This collection is Ana’s most personal work, inspired by her own experiences and those of her loved ones. Anna Margarette encourages the audience to reconnect with their inner child, embracing creativity without limitations. To aspiring designers, Ana’s advice is simple: study the industry, find what makes your brand unique, and start creating, knowing that the journey will require persistence, sacrifices, and an unwavering commitment to your passion.
BB COUTURE
BB – to Be Brave to Be, founded in 2019 by Barbra and Giulia, has quickly become a leading name in the eco-friendly fur industry. With a mission to provide innovative and sustainable alternatives to traditional fur, the brand combines youthful style with environmental responsibility. Over the past four years, BB has experienced significant growth, distinguishing itself in the competitive fashion landscape. The brand’s eco-conscious collections have resonated with an ever-growing base of consumers who are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fashion.
A significant milestone for the brand was presenting its collection at New York Fashion Week, solidifying its international presence and highlighting the appreciation for its sustainable designs abroad. BB remains committed to evolving and creating new solutions that reflect modernity, elegance, and respect for the planet. As they continue to innovate, Barbra and Giulia express their gratitude to supporters, emphasizing their shared vision for an ethical yet irresistibly stylish future in fashion.
CORAL CASTILLO
Coral Castillo is the designer behind her eponymous fashion brand, which empowers women by blending strength with softness. Her creations are known for their unique mix of structure and ethereal femininity, featuring texture-rich layering, dramatic draping, and light-play that gives each piece an airy, weightless feel. Coral draws inspiration from her roots in Mexico City and her mother, a dressmaker, who sparked her love for fashion. Her collections often include handmade elements, with an emphasis on incorporating sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials.
The latest collection by Coral Castillo is inspired by ethereal beauty, the interplay of light and shadow, and elements of Mexican culture. The collection draws on Aztec symbolism, featuring colors that represent the warrior spirit of women, and elements like the hummingbird, a symbol of strength and resilience in Aztec mythology. It also incorporates the shape of the human heart, reflecting the powerful imagery of Aztec beliefs. Coral’s aim is to create clothing that embodies confidence, beauty, and cultural storytelling, allowing women to feel both empowered and uniquely themselves.
Generation Typo
Generation Typo is a fashion brand founded by Doncel, with a mission to bridge generational divides through clothing and dialogue. Established to spark conversations between different generations, the brand challenges conventional opinions and promotes understanding through its unique designs. The brand’s signature red underline, reminiscent of a typo, symbolizes the perceived “errors” or differences between generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. By using fashion as a medium, Generation Typo aims to create a community where open discussions lead to greater understanding.
The brand’s latest spring/summer collection, “Let’s Travel the World,” draws inspiration from global architecture, plants, and fashion history, blending these elements with contemporary styles from Washington D.C. and Virginia. This release is particularly special as it introduces a new color palette and represents the highest quality collection to date. Through innovative integrations of technology like AI and augmented reality, Generation Typo pushes the boundaries of fashion, creating not just clothing but experiences that foster meaningful conversations.
HIROMI ASAI
Hiromi Asai is a U.S.-based fashion designer and renowned kimono stylist known for her innovative work using high-end Japanese kimono textiles. Hiromi’s mission is to preserve and revive the ancient art of kimono creation, which is facing a decline due to the shrinking market, aging artisans, and lack of successors. By incorporating traditional kimono textiles into modern fashion, Hiromi brings the rich heritage of the kimono to international audiences, offering exclusive designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary styles.
Hiromi Asai first gained attention at the 2016 Fall/Winter New York Fashion Week, where she presented the Hiromi Asai & Kimono Artisan Kyoto collection. Her designs, initially focused on women’s wear, have since expanded to include men’s fashion, showcasing the versatility of kimono fabrics. Her collections are celebrated for their elegance, quality, and ability to seamlessly merge Japanese tradition with global fashion trends. Through her work, Hiromi continues to raise awareness about the kimono’s cultural significance while introducing it to new generations worldwide.
Huda Aljarallah
Huda Al-Jarallah is a celebrated Kuwaiti fashion designer known for her ability to seamlessly blend cultural heritage with modern fashion trends. Her designs are characterized by a thoughtful fusion of traditional elements from Kuwaiti culture with contemporary styles, creating a distinctive aesthetic that appeals to a broad range of fashion enthusiasts. Huda’s work reflects her deep appreciation for authenticity while pushing the boundaries of modernity, resulting in collections that stand out for their originality and elegance.
By incorporating traditional motifs and craftsmanship into her modern designs, Huda successfully bridges the gap between past and present, offering a fresh take on cultural fashion that remains rooted in Kuwaiti heritage. Her unique approach has earned her recognition in the fashion world, as she continues to create pieces that celebrate both the old and the new.
IKH
Khadijah Alsunidi is a prominent Saudi Arabian fashion designer and the founder of IKH, a brand that has become a notable name in Saudi fashion since its inception in 2014. Based in Al Khobar, Alsunidi’s passion for design began at the young age of 10 when she crafted her first dress. Over the years, she honed her craft by learning from fashion experts in France, Italy, and Lebanon. Her brand IKH is known for merging tradition with innovation, creating pieces that empower women and reflect Saudi culture with a modern twist.
IKH is celebrated for its high-quality, luxurious designs, particularly in haute couture and bridal wear, offering clients personalized, artful creations. The brand recently expanded into ready-to-wear fashion, bringing the elegance of high-end couture into everyday styles. This blend of exclusivity and versatility has made IKH a standout in both local and international markets, as Alsunidi continues to lead the brand with creativity and cultural pride
KASCH Fashion Designs
Dale Kaschula is the founder and designer of Kasch Fashion Designs, a brand deeply influenced by her Zimbabwean heritage. Growing up as a farmer’s daughter in Zimbabwe, she was immersed in its rich culture and natural beauty, which inspired her bold use of colors, intricate patterns, and unique aesthetics. After moving to Queensland, Australia, Dale continued nurturing her passion for fashion, merging her African roots with her experiences in Australia to create a brand that celebrates the fusion of ethnic African prints and contemporary fashion. Kasch Fashion Designs focuses on high-quality, sustainable pieces for women who appreciate bold and unique styles, and also aims to make a positive impact by donating a portion of profits to support young women’s education in Zimbabwe.
The new collection, “Out of Africa,” draws inspiration from Zimbabwe’s vibrant culture, landscapes, and heritage. It features traditional ethnic prints reimagined with modern silhouettes and a bold color palette, reflecting the beauty of Zimbabwe’s natural scenery. This collection is special not only for its stunning and sustainable designs but also for its social impact—each piece is crafted with a mission to give back to the community and empower young women in Zimbabwe. Through this collection, Dale celebrates her lifelong passion for fashion while honoring the rich traditions of her homeland, making each piece a unique statement of empowerment and cultural heritage.
Maison Beast
Maison Beast is a premium streetwear brand from Estonia, founded with the vision of creating bold, fearless fashion for individuals who choose to stand out. Led by CEO and Creative Director Michael Burich, Head of Tech & Innovation Kaido Põldma, and Head Designer Kristiina, Maison Beast is more than just a clothing brand—it’s an artistic house for creatives. The name “Maison Beast,” meaning “house of the beast,” reflects the brand’s ambition to merge fashion with music and other creative forms. While the core of the brand is streetwear, Maison Beast is expanding into lifestyle accessories, including jewelry and sunglasses.
The brand was born from a shared passion for design and music, merging the energy of both worlds to create wearable art that reflects bold self-expression. Maison Beast’s collections are designed for people who want to make a statement through what they wear, offering high-fashion streetwear that defies the ordinary. Their latest collection includes a mix of ready-to-wear pieces and exclusive one-of-a-kind runway looks, using innovative fabrics and signature colors that embody the heart and soul of the brand.
Mateo Maceiras
Mateo Maceiras is an Argentinean fashion designer focused on creating non-gender clothing that promotes freedom and confidence. Under the designer’s personal name, the brand reflects Mateo’s desire to challenge societal norms around gender-specific fashion. His designs aim to blur the lines between men’s and women’s clothing, allowing individuals to express themselves without being confined to traditional labels. By creating shared fashion identities, Mateo Maceiras is at the forefront of a revolution that seeks to break free from stereotypes and give people the liberty to wear what they feel, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
Inspired by the desire to defy social norms, Mateo’s collections merge masculine and feminine characteristics in a seamless way, offering clothing that speaks to genderless or marginalized individuals. His latest collection draws inspiration from Greek philosophy, emphasizing independent thinking and rebellion against the norm—values reflected in the strong, boundary-breaking designs. For aspiring designers, Mateo’s advice is simple: create with purpose, trust in your product, and let your fashion speak for both yourself and your audience.
NeceSera
NeceSera is a brand built around comfort and sustainability, offering clothing that fits seamlessly into the lives of multitaskers. The brand name, derived from “necessary” and “evening,” captures the essence of their mission: to provide cozy, versatile pieces that can be worn for sleep, travel, work, and even workouts. NeceSera emphasizes the importance of using soft, high-quality fabrics, with each piece designed to bring a warm, comforting feeling to your everyday routine. The brand believes in creating essential yet unforgettable experiences through its clothing, allowing customers to feel at home wherever they are.
NeceSera’s philosophy centers on comfort and sustainability. With a focus on eco-friendly practices, the brand ensures that more than 70% of the water used in its manufacturing process is recycled. Additionally, it incorporates water-less digital printing to further minimize environmental impact. The brand’s dedication to sustainability, combined with its obsession with quality, results in beautiful, functional clothing that not only enhances your comfort but also contributes to a healthier planet.
Of The Saints
The sentiment behind Of The Saints is all about celebrating and feminizing the female form. The brand aims to break away from high-end fashion trends that often masculinize women’s clothing, instead highlighting and celebrating a woman’s most elegant and often forgotten features. By focusing on areas like the collarbone, shoulders, abdomen, neck, back, and thighs, Of The Saints showcases the natural grace of the female body without overtly flaunting it.
Their yoga apparel collection, designed to resolve the dilemma between beauty and practicality, offers functional yet glamorous outfits. The lightweight bodysuits are not only breathable but also feature stenciled cut-outs that allow instructors to assess the accuracy of movements during yoga sessions. This combination of aesthetic appeal and functionality sets Of The Saints apart, making it both a fashion and performance-focused brand.
Ophelia Song Couture
Ophelia Song Couture specializes in handcrafted cocktail dresses, evening gowns, and wedding gowns made from luxurious and sustainable materials like silk, ramie, and pima cotton. With a strong emphasis on quality, comfort, and sustainability, the brand is known for its precise fitting and elegant designs, catering to a sophisticated clientele worldwide. The boutique offers personalized services, focusing on creating garments that make every wearer feel both graceful and comfortable.
Inspired by positive energies, Bible stories, and uplifting parables, Ophelia Song Couture weaves messages of optimism into its designs. The latest Genesis collection celebrates the diverse qualities of women, assigning each dress a name from the Bible to connect the garments with meaningful attributes. This blend of storytelling and spirituality creates a unique, evocative experience for wearers. For aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, Ophelia advises defining a clear brand identity and conducting thorough market research to understand trends, target audiences, and opportunities.
Paige 1912
Paige 1912 and Pursue Victory are the creations of designer and cowgirl, Paige, who grew up in Alberta, Canada. She spent much of her youth ranching and rodeoing, eventually combining her love for horses and couture fashion into two clothing brands for women. Both brands offer functional, well-fitting shirts for horsewomen, with Paige 1912 blending old west flair with high fashion tailoring. Inspired by historical western cowgirls and the elegance of early 20th-century fashion, Paige aims to empower women with her bold, stylish designs that are ethically manufactured in Alberta, Canada.
The fall 2024 collection draws inspiration from the textures and colors of early fall mornings on the ranch, featuring earthy browns, blacks, and denim, with vibrant pops of apricot orange. Each design is named after influential cities in western and high fashion history, blending practicality with creativity. Paige encourages aspiring designers to follow their own vision, even when others don’t understand it, emphasizing that staying true to yourself is what leads to success.
PAULINA’S FRIENDS
Paulina Tsvetanova, founder of PAULINA’S FRIENDS, is an innovative fashion designer originally from Bulgaria who is now based in Berlin. Her brand focuses on wearable art fashion that transcends conventional limits and emphasizes individuality and emotional connection. Each piece tells a personal story, crafted from customized, eco-friendly textiles or rare couture fabrics from around the world. Tsvetanova’s designs, which are flamboyant, maximalist, and avant-garde, mix bright colors, unusual patterns, and textures. The brand embraces sustainability through slow fashion, with each item handmade in her one-woman workshop, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
Her inspiration for the brand comes from her personal journey and childhood dreams of becoming a fashion designer. Paulina’s collections aim to empower wearers to embrace their unique personalities and challenge societal norms. The upcoming collection for Flying Solo in September 2022, titled “The Other Way Round,” will feature pieces sold to her loyal customers before the show, reflecting the deep connection between Paulina and her audience.
Pocketful Of Cherrie
Pocketful Of Cherrie is a luxury clothing brand that seamlessly merges high-end design with practicality, focusing on both men’s and women’s fashion. The brand sets itself apart by incorporating deep, functional pockets in all its women’s garments, addressing a long-standing oversight in the fashion industry. By offering utility without compromising style, Pocketful Of Cherrie empowers women with clothing that is both elegant and functional. Each piece is designed with a strong emphasis on fit, ensuring that diverse body types are flattered while maintaining an impeccable, fashion-forward look.
The brand is more than just about aesthetics; it stands as a movement toward empowerment and individual expression. With a dedication to top-tier craftsmanship, Pocketful Of Cherrie sources only the finest materials, producing garments that embody sophistication and timelessness. From chic casual wear to luxurious evening attire, the collection offers versatility, catering to a range of occasions and personal styles. At its core, the brand champions inclusivity and practicality, redefining modern luxury by making it both elegant and functional—one pocket at a time.
Quito Carib
M. Ramirez-DeHeywood is the designer behind Quito Carib, a brand inspired by a passion for quality and craftsmanship. From an early age, an experience with a faux leather jacket sparked an obsession with authenticity, ultimately leading to the creation of a fashion brand that celebrates boldness and fine craftsmanship. Quito Carib is about creating statement pieces for individuals who walk into a room and command attention, blending Caribbean splashes of color with impeccable quality and a unique twist.
The latest collection is a tribute to Italian artisan craftsmanship, with accents of the Italian national colors—red, white, and green—infused into the designs. Inspired by a blend of Italian artistry and Indigenous Caribbean and Latino heritage, the collection showcases vibrant colors, fine leathers, and exquisite materials. M. Ramirez-DeHeywood advises aspiring fashion designers to focus on the art before money and fame, be resilient in the face of setbacks, and stay true to their unique vision. Creating trends, rather than following them, is key to building a brand that stands out.
Sanz Couture
Sanz Couture, named after founder Sanz’s nickname, is a London-based luxury fashion brand specializing in customized evening gowns and dresses for weddings and other special occasions. Sanz’s passion for fashion began in her childhood, inspired by her mother, a talented dressmaker who crafted most of their clothes at home. Watching her mother work sparked Sanz’s creativity, and she began experimenting with fabrics and sketching designs from an early age. Her time in corporate fashion provided her with invaluable industry knowledge, allowing her to launch her own couture brand.
Sanz Couture is known for its exquisite craftsmanship, with a focus on beads, pearls, and feathers in its collections. The brand supports slow fashion and sustainability, releasing just two collections per year—spring/summer and autumn/winter. Recently, Sanz Couture launched “Club Sanz,” a membership program where clients can exchange their couture pieces for store credit, which are then upcycled and recycled to contribute to a more responsible fashion industry. The latest collection is inspired by a soul-searching journey to an island, incorporating real oyster shells, sea-inspired colors, and light, bright hues. Sanz encourages aspiring designers to follow their passion, prioritize quality and sustainability, and gain hands-on experience through internships with established brands.
Scarlett Gasque
Chloé Rogers is the founder of Scarlett Gasque, a luxury lingerie and corsetry brand that reimagines vintage silhouettes for the modern woman. With an emphasis on high-quality materials and traditional craftsmanship, Scarlett Gasque was born from Chloé’s love for all things vintage and her passion for corsetry, developed during her time at Central Saint Martins. Inspired by the empowerment of burlesque and pin-up girls, the brand also addresses a market need for corsets with varying cup sizes.
The latest collection, “Delicious Delights: The High Tea Collection,” draws inspiration from a whimsical English garden afternoon tea, introducing pastel pink and mint colors to blend playfulness with seduction. New pieces like the babydoll cami and French knicker expand the concept of underwear as outerwear. For aspiring fashion brand creators, Chloé advises staying true to your vision and enjoying the process, even as you learn and grow every day.
SEALY
Sealy by Stefan Sealy is a clothing brand from Trinidad and Tobago, launched in 2019 by Stefan Justin Sealy. The brand focuses on providing bold and stylish designs, particularly aimed at the young modern man, though some pieces appeal to women as well. With a background in both modeling and entrepreneurship, Sealy brings a unique perspective to his fashion line, which blends accessible pricing with high-quality craftsmanship. His designs are known for their fresh, contemporary look, featuring bold prints and sophisticated, finished details.
The brand gained significant traction when its initial 300-piece collection sold out within 12 days, and Sealy has continued to expand, including collaborations like his “Highlight Monday” collection for Carnival. Stefan Sealy draws inspiration from his experiences in Los Angeles and collaborations with local retail stores like 212 Clothing. His designs emphasize accessibility and style, targeting customers who want to look fashionable without breaking the bank.
SHABEEG
Shabeeg is an Armenian fashion brand founded by Mary Sukiasyan, known for its distinctive t-shirts and apparel that celebrate Armenian heritage. The name “Shabeeg,” which translates to “t-shirt” in Armenian, captures the essence of the brand—creating garments that feature symbols and motifs inspired by Armenia’s rich cultural history, flora, fauna, and traditional attire. Sukiasyan started the brand to promote Armenian culture globally, using contemporary fashion as a medium to tell Armenia’s historical and cultural stories.
The designs are often characterized by bold prints and embroideries, reflecting traditional Armenian clothing (taraz) while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Shabeeg is recognized for its unique approach to blending heritage with wearable art, and the brand has showcased its collections internationally, including at New York Fashion Week. Shabeeg aims to elevate “Made in Armenia” products and inspire a global appreciation for Armenian craftsmanship
Shellvio
Shellvio is a growing resort-wear brand based in Hong Kong that creates fashionable, comfortable clothing for women worldwide. Founded by Fibi Ting in 2021, Shellvio’s designs strike a balance between sophistication and ease, blending style with a serene coastal spirit. The name “Shellvio” is derived from “Shell,” representing the natural beauty of seashells, and “Vio,” symbolizing the path toward a stylish, carefree fashion journey. Shellvio’s pieces are designed to provide the latest trends while embodying the feeling of being on a perpetual vacation. The brand incorporates sustainability through initiatives like ‘One Item One Tree,’ ensuring that every purchase contributes to reforestation, encouraging customers to participate in making a positive environmental impact.
The inspiration behind Shellvio’s latest collection, “Enchanted Garden,” comes from the whimsical beauty of nature’s hidden paradises. Featuring motifs of wisteria flowers, lemons, and passion fruits, the collection captures the essence of a magical garden in full bloom. Versatile pieces seamlessly transition from a relaxed day in nature to an elegant evening gathering, reflecting the spirit of timeless beauty. Shellvio’s mission is to empower women through style, comfort, and personal expression, reminding them that fashion can be both confident and comfortable, celebrating individuality while making a positive difference in the world.
Stitched By April
April Allen, an Inuk designer from Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, is the creative mind behind Stitched by April, a fashion brand that celebrates Inuit heritage. Currently based in Labrador City, NL, Canada, April’s work blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary styles to tell the stories of her ancestors and bring Inuit culture to the forefront of the fashion world. Inspired by the skilled seamstresses in her family and motivated by seeing other Indigenous designers on the runway, she sought to honor traditions while embracing modern fashion trends.
Stitched by April aims to preserve and celebrate Inuit culture through each piece. The brand’s new collection, “Arctic Elegance,” draws inspiration from the landscapes, spirit, and materials of Nunatsiavut—such as sealskin, fox fur, and intricate beadwork. It combines the resilience and beauty of the Arctic with innovation and sustainability, making each design deeply personal and culturally significant. April advises aspiring fashion entrepreneurs to stay true to their roots, focus on their brand’s message, take risks, and be authentic.
Taj Cottage
Rachna Chandra is the founder and designer of Taj Cottage, a South Asian fashion brand that blends Indian heritage with modern styles. As a first-generation immigrant from India, Rachna moved to America in 1997 with a passion for fashion, eventually launching Taj Cottage in 2005. Starting from her garage, she steadily expanded her business, opening her first storefront in 2019 and showcasing her work at prestigious events like New York and Paris Fashion Week. Taj Cottage is dedicated to celebrating South Asian fashion through intricate hand embroidery, rich Indian textiles, and personalized custom orders, offering unique creations that reflect both tradition and modernity.
The new collection is inspired by upcycling, focusing on keeping textile waste out of landfills. Showcased at Milan Fashion Week, it features designs made from fabric masks used during the 2020 pandemic and upcycled sarees, incorporating a zero-waste commitment. Rachna advises aspiring fashion designers to understand their customers’ needs, identify how their brand can solve these issues, and remain consistent and loyal to their brand’s values to build a successful business.
Tarmafia
Tarmafia was founded by Chuthanuch Lertchaikunsathien, known as Tar, in 2008. Tar’s passion for fashion and design began at a young age, inspired by her mother, who made clothes and household items from scratch. Watching her mother’s creativity sparked her interest in making unique, stylish products. While in high school, Tar began designing her own clothing, often using recycled materials, which not only allowed her to stand out but also saved money.
Tar’s innovative designs, which transformed unwanted items into remarkable fashion pieces, quickly caught people’s attention. This distinct approach helped Tarmafia establish itself as a recognized brand on the international stage. Over the years, the brand has continued to evolve, gaining a loyal customer base. For Tar, her greatest joy comes from seeing people around the world wearing her creations and knowing that her creativity has contributed to her community’s wealth by generating local employment and fostering sustainable practices.
Top Knot Swim
Nadia Weekes is the designer and creator of Top Knot Swim, a handmade swimwear brand based in Toronto, Canada. With a lifelong passion for swimwear, Nadia began by reconstructing her own swimsuits, which led to the creation of her brand after a family trip to Hawaii.
Top Knot Swim draws inspiration from the playful hairstyle “topknot,” and each piece is handmade, offering unique customization to every customer. The new collection, titled “Rain on Me,” is inspired by a rainy day at the beach and features swimwear with fun rain-themed cover-ups. Nadia’s advice to aspiring fashion brand owners is to simply start, even if you don’t have everything figured out yet—starting small and staying consistent will help your brand grow.
TRBROWN
TRBrown is a women’s ready-to-wear brand founded by designer Tiffany Brown, who brings a unique and creative approach to fashion. A self-taught seamstress, Tiffany entered the fashion world after transitioning from a corporate career, driven by her passion for design and empowerment through clothing. Her label is known for bold, statement pieces suitable for any occasion, which have been featured in major magazines such as VOGUE and Harper’s Bazaar, and showcased at numerous Fashion Weeks across the U.S., including New York and Kansas City.
Tiffany emphasizes individuality and confidence in her designs, creating collections that are both versatile and fashion-forward. Each TRBrown collection tells a story, with a focus on empowering women to feel comfortable and strong in what they wear. Her inspiration often comes from her love for color cohesion and textured fabrics, and she frequently incorporates retro influences, particularly from the 1970s, into her designs.
Urban Sophie
Salina Davis is a fashion designer, personal stylist, and interior decorator, known for her unique blend of urban and sophisticated style, which is the foundation of her brand, Urban Sophie. Urban Sophie is an online women’s apparel and accessories brand that bridges the gap between urban edge and refined elegance, offering chic, inclusive styles that help all women feel confident and beautiful.
The inspiration behind Salina’s latest collection comes from envisioning an “Urban Rose Garden,” a concept that stays true to her brand’s edgy yet sophisticated vibe. Each piece is designed to make a statement, embodying Urban Sophie’s motto of “building confidence one statement piece at a time.” Salina advises aspiring designers to stay true to themselves, as authenticity is key to success in the fashion industry.
VAL D´AZUR
Born and raised in the south of France, I founded Val d’Azur in Saint-Tropez, inspired by my years working for a French female designer in German-speaking regions. My journey led me to launch my own beachwear collection, influenced by close interactions with customers and the inspiration they provided. I am proud that Val d’Azur is fully produced in Italy, embracing high-end quality and the renowned Italian craftsmanship.
Val d’Azur offers sophisticated, elegant beachwear that seamlessly integrates into casual wear. The brand is centered around high-quality fabrics, refined materials, and hand-finished accessories that exude romanticism, sensuality, and wearable luxury. Our latest collection expands beyond beachwear—offering versatile pieces like underjackets, long dresses, and colorful trousers that are perfect for any occasion. For aspiring fashion brand founders, my advice is to have patience, enthusiasm, and perseverance. Select your target audience thoughtfully, build a strong network, and stay connected to the desires of your customers.
Via Moscato
Olivia Cason is the founder of Via Moscato, a body-positive and inclusive lingerie brand designed to adjust and fit various body types. Inspired by her own challenges with finding clothing that fit properly as a tall and slender woman, Olivia sought to address the broader issue that many women face—mismatched fits between tops and bottoms. This led her to create Via Moscato, a brand that allows women of all sizes to feel great in their clothes, offering adjustable garments that adapt to the wearer’s body rather than the other way around.
The core message of Via Moscato is empowering women with the motto, “You should not have to conform to your clothes. Your clothing should conform to you!” Olivia’s latest collection continues to focus on body positivity for all body types, with each piece celebrating the uniqueness of the wearer. For aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, Olivia advises that starting a brand is just the first step—building a genuine connection with clients who resonate with your vision is what truly drives success.
WREADY
Mandy is the designer and founder of WREADY, a brand that focuses on integrating comfort and convenience into women’s fashion. Previously a lingerie and activewear designer, Mandy wanted a solution to the discomfort of strapless bras and nipple tapes when wearing summer dresses. This led her to create WREADY, pronounced like “ready,” a collection of dresses and tops with built-in, removable bra pads. WREADY blends modern bra-making techniques with versatile clothing suitable for travel, yoga, beach activities, and light sports—all while ensuring comfort.
The inspiration for WREADY came from the evolution of modern bras toward comfort, using wireless and stretchable materials. Mandy wanted to incorporate this approach into regular clothing, offering supportive, stress-free garments for a range of body types. The latest collection draws inspiration from “Alice in Wonderland,” blending elements of fantasy and adventure from the classic tale. Mandy’s advice to aspiring fashion brand founders is simple: “Maximize your strengths, and you will be the unique one.”
Xantha
Xantha Ward is the creative force behind XANTHA, a fashion brand that blends sustainability with individuality. With over 20 years of experience in clothing, accessories, and jewelry design, Xantha’s work is rooted in her childhood passion for reconstructing used clothing. Denim, in particular, has been a major part of her creative journey. Her latest collection, titled “The Fire of Yen and Yang,” showcases her love for bold contrasts, featuring striking black-and-white pieces accented with vibrant pops of red.
The heart of the XANTHA brand lies in sustainable fashion and self-expression. Xantha encourages her audience to embrace their unique style while being conscious of the environment. For aspiring designers, her advice is simple: be fearless, think outside the box, and let creativity shine through in everything you do. The brand champions the idea that fashion should be both a personal statement and a reflection of responsible consumerism.
ZIEMANN & CO
Olga Ziemann is the designer behind Ziemann&Co, a luxury fashion brand dedicated to creating timeless and elegant clothing for modern women. Offering both Ready-to-Wear and Couture lines, Ziemann&Co focuses on classic designs that celebrate each woman’s individuality and natural beauty, allowing wearers to feel confident and extraordinary.
The latest collection is inspired by the grace and beauty of ballerinas, using materials like silk, velvet, lace, and cashmere to create garments that embody both fluidity and poise. With a vibrant yet sophisticated color palette of gold, purple, powder rose, and black, this collection showcases versatility for casual, evening, and glamorous occasions. Olga advises aspiring designers to stay true to their vision, invest in quality, and be persistent—building a brand takes dedication, but passion and authenticity will guide success.
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