From Model to Designer

It seems Canadian made model Coco Rocha is shifting her focus from modeling and will be designing a new line of clothing.

At the 3rd annual Supima Design Competition Coco announced that she would begin designing. She didn't reveal too much information, as the new line is still in it's early stages.

"I'm hoping that in 2010 I will have my own presentation in September. But I can tell you that I love 1800's, costume-y but elegant, Victorian-inspired clothes. When you wear that style out today, it's considered costume. I'm trying to take pieces and elements of the era and put it into a modern woman," said Coco.

Coco is around high fashion on a daily basis, she knows what looks good and what's going to sell. I think we can expect big things from her.

Keep your eyes peeled for her new line and don't worry about the prices she promises that the line will be incredibly affordable.

-Erin Jones

Making Her Claim to Fame

Fashion is always looking for the next big thing. And after last nights CFDA and Vogue Fashion Fund in New York, we may have found it.

Sophie Theallet, winner of $200,000 to help fund and develop her collections, as well as a year-long mentorship with fashion professionals, has a new collection that even the First Lady, Michelle Obama, has taken notice of.

Theallets signature is bohemian luxe seen through the eyes of a sophisticated couturier. Her clothes have a strong French accent, but exude a freedom of spirit that transcends all borders.

Theallet was first noticed by magazine editors in 2009 when she presented her Spring 2009 collection using only African American women. Since then she has made a name for herself on the New York fashion scene.

Sophie Theallet is a designer to definitely watch out for. Take a look through her collection I'm sure you will find pieces that are must haves for your spring wardrobe.

- Erin Jones

A Nest For Emerging Designers

Ever look back on the days when you first started designing? or maybe you have been designing for a year and are ready to take your business to the next level? Wouldn't it be great to have your own design space? A place where you could receive educational and industry support? Well all that is possible if you live in the New York area.

On Monday, the Bloomberg administration announced a new 10,000 square-foot fashion incubator in the garment district.

"Emerging designers will be able to compete for a dozen spaces on the now vacant fourth floor of 209 West 38th Street, where the rent will only be $1,500 a month - about half the $2,900 market rate for a comparible space," said David Lombino, a spokesman for the city's Economic Development Corporation, which is leading the project.

Now this building won't be easy to get into, the tenants will be selected through a competition, winners will be announced in mid-December with a move in date of February. Applicants must have been in business for a year and half and employ a staff. In addition they must have received some sort of media attention.

The incubator will be a home to established local designers who are looking to take their business to the next step. With seminars held by the Council of Fashion Designers of America, this space will be sure to kick start your career and have you showing at all the major fashion weeks in no time.

Personally, I believe every city should have an incubator for designers!

-Erin Jones