http://www.examiner.com/fashion-designers-in-chicago/chicago-fashion-designer-horacio-nieto-of-horacio-nieto
Rising star and stylemaker, Horacio Nieto is the multi-talented designer behind his brands Arlo Menswear, a trend-setting menswear company and, Horacio Nieto, an attention-grabbing women's fashion company. The Horacio Nieto collection includes ready-to-wear, eveningwear and bridalwear. The exquisite dresses have lots of ruffles, winged shoulders, sexy bare or one shoulder styles, and all are stunners. I usually choose fabric that is textured or that has something to it, whether it is the color or fabric content, Horacio said.
Horacio says he knew he wanted to be a fashion designer around the age of 13 or 14, when he would sketch dresses for his mother. He is originally from Texas but in 2000, he moved to
Chicago to pursue his love for fashion. He attended the International Academy of Design & Technology, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion. Soon, he began designing one-of-a-kind pieces and, the orders starting piling up from the clubs in Boystown. He knew he was going to be a success then.
I asked Horacio to describe his philosophy about fashion and his mission statement:
My philosophy of designing clothing is a combination of strength, fluidity and sex
appeal.
At Horacio Nieto we are here to provide our customer with clothing that has design, integrity and quality. We shall work to our best ability to provide our customer with clothing that will satisfy them and make them continue to be a loyal customer.
In describing his design style and collection, Horacio said:
I would describe my style as a ready-to-wear style but with elements that make them stand out and more fashion forward. everything is wearable and made with quality and design.
In 2008, Horacio won the AOL Latino Fashionista Design Competition. Some of Horacio's favorite designers are Karl Lagerfeld, Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera and Valentino. His favorite celeb to design for would be Selma Hayek.
Horacio's advice to aspiring fashion designers:
You will need to learn draping, pattern making, have sewing skills and definitely know how to make a garment. Anyone can design but, when it comes to making the garment, then you will see who really knows what they are doing.
Prices range from $100 to $1,500. Women's collection and men's collection.
On April 30, 2011, Horacio will be presenting "Mining The Ming Dynasty" Fashion Exhibition debuting his Fall/Winter 2011 Collections at the Loft on the Lake, 1366 W. Lake St Chicago, IL 60607. To purchase tickets, visit his website. You can keep up with Horacio on Facebook.
Horacio says if he was not designing fashion, he would probably be an entertainer.