Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Cariaga.
Vanessa, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Though I was raised in the United States, I was born into a Latin American family. My father, an immigrant from Colombia and my mother of Mexican descendants. I feel a special obligation to perform at my highest potential for my parents, ancestors, and for people of color because I was given a plethora of opportunities. I graduated from high school with the dream of creating my own clothing line. With the push of my sister, that is a photographer and the support of my parents I graduated with my associates and started my clothing line. I’m continuing my fashion education at Houston Community College to perfect my skills. With Graduation around the corner, I am determined to grow my business to its full potential.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I am a fashion designer that specializes in custom orders. I have studied the construction of clothing from the production or fabric to creation of the garment. First I use my clients’ measurements to create a flat pattern of design. After creating the pattern, it is used to construct a muslin sample. During this stage, a fitting is done to make any changes that are necessary. The final step is using the sample to create the final product. I prefer this process over ready to wear because I want each client to fit perfectly in my clothes no matter the body type. I want to inspire other brands to cater more to quality patterns and designs for each body shape rather than quantity. I want to help my clients feel confident and ready to take on the world in one of my designs.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
When I first started designing it was difficult to find anyone that wanted to go down the same path as me. I found that going to workshops or classes within the fashion world opened up many doors and sparked many friendships. Glasstire is a website that has also helped me find art shows and such. This has exposed me not only to fashion but all types of art and artists.
Contact Info:
- Email: cariagacouture@gmail.com
- Instagram: @vanessa_cariaga
Image Credit:
Velma Cariaga
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