Celebrating Heritage Month
FAMILY, FRIENDS, LAUGHTER AND LOVE ARE CELEBRATED IN THIS IMAGE ABOVE FROM DESIGNER INES DI SANTO’S LATEST CAMPAIGN FOR HER FALL 2022 COLLECTION.
IT IS THE CELEBRATION OF LIFE AND THE JOY OF FAMILY THAT IS AT THE CORE OF HISPANIC, LATIN AND ITALIAN CULTURES…WE CELEBRATE OUR MEMBERS - SALUTE!
EVE MUSCIO OF EVE OF MILADY
Eve Muscio is of Italian heritage and was born in Argentina. She creates all of her gowns using the finest fabrics from different parts of the world and is most widely known for her incomparable designs of embroideries and laces. Her gowns have a unique signature look that fit to perfection no matter what size, “I love all the brides that choose my gowns to feel an absolutely magical experience. I feel proud to be such an important part of their wedding day.”
What is the inspiration behind the details in your gowns?
My never-ending desire to be creative is what really inspires my designs and their intricate details. My admiration for the grandeur and beauty of LA BELLE EPOQUE with its costumes and magnificent architectural decor has perhaps influenced my mind. But most of all, my love of nature, by far the most magnificent intricate creation of all.
Where are your dresses manufactured?
Most of my gowns are produced or assembled in the USA. However, laces, beading, and most fabrics are from Europe or other parts of the world.
What is the best way to accessorize one of your gowns?
My gowns are quite intricate with lots of beading and lace detail; very little extra accessorizing is needed. A pair or earnings is all I like, either simple or with more statement appeal, depending on the bride-nothing ever around the neck. The wedding ring will make it complete.
MARIA ELENA FUENTES OF MARIA ELENA HEADPIECES
Maria Elena Fuentes was born in Cuba. She created her first headpiece as a gift for her daughter to wear on her wedding day. Now, over a decade later, Maria Elena used this inspiration to make beautiful, intricate headpieces for brides, filled with the same love used to create her daughter's headpiece. Her company is committed to providing the best customer service. Maria Elena's designs are all handcrafted and allow brides to share their style while cherishing and creating an heirloom of their own.
What are some of your signature design elements?
We have three fundamental core values which are quality, originality, and elegance. I carefully design each piece to be multifaceted with Swarovski embellishments, so that each piece's beauty is captured in every angle. The pieces are inspired by natural, organic forms such as leaves, flowers, and butterflies.
Do you have a favorite piece from your most recent collection?
My favorite piece from our newest collection is the Multicolor Crown. I find it to be enriched and unique from other pieces we've created. I like pieces that have a traditional look with modern touches. I'm not a simple woman, I appreciate the elegance found in all of the bridal pieces I create.
When designing a collection of headpieces, where does the process start?
When designing a new collection I begin from an inspiration. At first I look for colors that I want to use within the collection. Then I add floral and natural elements that blend with the colors I've chosen.
MERCHE SEGARRA OF JESUS PEIRO
Merche Segarra is a native of Barcelona, Spain. The JESUS PEIRO collections, designed by Merche, are conceived for a woman who is demanding in terms of product quality, who values elegance, follows new trends and who wishes to wear a bridal gown with its own identity. In addition to its wedding dresses, JESUS PEIRO also offers a wide range of hand-made accessories.
What elements of Barcelona do you put into your pieces?
Probably the refined work of the lines in any design. The dynamic and more functional touch that characterizes us.
How else do you keep the Latin Essence alive in your brand?
Especially in the selection of fabrics. It is very important to us to show the richness of the embroidery work, the lacework, and the craftsmanship in general. The value of the nuptial knowledge is so unique in our culture.
What are some of your favorite pieces in this collection?
There are several; I love the less conventional looks and more typical of a fashion styling, the very original dresses that are close to the idea of sewing, and the extremely refined classics.
INES DI SANTO
Ines Di Santo was born in Italy and raised in Argentina. An unapologetic romantic, Ines has built her namesake brand by infusing every wedding gown with the essence of her passion for beauty, love, and desire.
Fueled by the eternal fantasy of the ‘perfect’ wedding gown, Ines Di Santo bridal gowns are a modern interpretation of classic couture techniques, exquisitely handcrafted embroideries, and the finest European fabrics. Inspired by her upbringing in beautiful Buenos Aires, Ines connected to the romance of the art world as a young woman and went on to study fine art and design in Argentina and Italy. This connection laid the foundation for her expression as a fashion designer. Using the gestures of fine art as a catalyst, she brought her art, Ines Di Santo bridal, to life in glamorous, feminine glory.
How has the business developed with your daughter Veronica's help?
Veronica and I have always worked very well together. We've always been a team were I create, while she has the vision to expand and grow the business. We are very proud of the team we have created over the years & appreciate our amazing retailer partners support.
How has growing up in Argentina inspired your designs?
My Italian heritage and upbringing in Buenos Aires inspired me to connect to the romance of the art world when I was younger, so I went on to study fine art and design in Argentina and Italy. This connection laid the foundation for my expression as a designer, as a whole. Every collection I create is always inspired, firstly, by my real brides, and then the roots to my heritage.
What does Heritage month mean for you and this collection?
For people of Latin, Hispanic & Italian heritage, we're all about passion. We are passionate in whatever we do and I am passionate about what my work represents. This new collection happens to be my "Heritage Collection." It's about remembering all the moments of my life that led me to this point and celebrating how the best memories were always centered around family. Whether it has been my God given family or the one I've created along the way, family is everything and has always been at the root of my happiness. It inspires me to keep moving forward.
GUSTAVO NUNEZ OF VERDIN BRIDAL NEW YORK
Gustavo Nunez hails from Mexico. He launched VERDIN New York in 2017 to give women the elegant evening silhouettes they craved at an accessible price point. Gustavo Nunez’s designs are inspired by his Mexican culture paired with his technical experience gained from his stints AT renowned brands. In OCTOBER, 2020 HE LAUNCHED HIS BRIDAL COLLECTION, VERDIN BRIDAL New York.
How has your Latin heritage inspired your designs?
Going to weddings in Mexico and growing up in such a vibrant and colorful culture helps me incorporate my Latin passion, heritage and hard work into my designs. I love how romantic and elegant a bride can be On her most special day.
How has your mother's inspiration helped your success?
Growing up in Guadalajara, Mexico watching my mother sew and design for my father to sell her collections was a huge inspiration. She inspired me to follow her path and I owe it to her to succeed and continue with her legacy.
What inspired you to launch the Verdin Bridal NY Collection just last year?
Getting married to my now husband, Juan Carlos Guzman, last year brought my mindset back to the beauty of weddings. I wanted to bring hope and romance back to the life of the brides and show my beautiful Latin culture through my designs.
YOLANDA & CRISTINA PEREZ OF YOLANCRIS
Yolanda & Cristina are natives of Spain. A Barcelona based luxury brand specializing in evening and bridal gowns was founded in 2005 by the two sisters. Yolanda and Cristina, are creative directors of the brand and Yolancris' soul, who both inherited the passion and craft from their mother.
How do you select your fabrics?
We sometimes design our own fabric. We also go to fabric shows like Premier Vision.
Does working together as sisters help inspire your creativity?
yes, because we do very different things. we have different talents, we don’t cross over into each other’s expertise. WE Exchange ideas.What design elements has your mother inspired?
SHE hasn't really inspired us for desiGN. She has taught us discipline, order and basically knowing how to work and cooperate with people…And to respect the trade.