SocialMiami looks at Gala Fashion
with Gloria Couture
Gala Season is once again upon us and the question is, as always, “What to wear?” For those who can’t find their ideal ready-to-wear gown, there is a viable option – custom gowns designed specifically for you. The interactive process allows gala gals to select the fabric, counsel with design and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. To get in the spirit, we asked five Miami couturiers questions about their craft, the latest trends, past and current clients and more. Check it out!
How long have you been doing business in South Florida?
36 years
What kind of clothes are you best known for and who is your ideal client? If you wish to name celebrity or well known clients, please do.
I carry a vast collection of ready-made and custom-made clothing but am probably best known for dressing women for black tie events, weddings and special occasions. I also alter clothing for my customers and can revive an older dress by adding some new elements to it. My ideal client is someone who understands their body type, knows what looks best on them, and wants to work with me to create that special dress. I design clothing for ladies all over the world but I won’t disclose their names. My client list is a secret since many of the women are not comfortable telling where they get their gowns.
The Gala Season is just around the corner – what do you see as being “the look” for Miami’s 2011-2012 season and what is the most requested kind of fabric for gowns?
For the 2011/2012 gala season I see a lot of lace and satin. I also see a return to the short gala dress showing off the legs. The most requested fabrics are 4-ply silk and silk satin. All my materials are from Europe and the same used by the leading designers in the country.
How do most of your clients articulate what they want?
Many bring in pictures of gowns they like or elements they want incorporated in their gown. Others draw a rough sketch of what they are looking for, and many rely on my designs and opinion about what would look best on them. I make sure to cover their problem areas and accentuate their assets. My goal is to make a one-of-a-kind dress; to make them the gown of their dreams.
Share a humorous or poignant anecdote about the business of designing beautiful gowns.
One day an attractive woman came into my shop and told me that she was TV personality Judge Karen Frances and needed a dress to wear to President Obama’s Inauguration Ball. The problem—she needed it done in three days! My staff worked long hours to finish her dress and make her look fabulous. I was very proud that my dress would be seen by the President and his wife. Since that time Judge Karen has been a loyal client.
1060 Kane Concourse Bay Harbor Islands 33154
305-864-1090
www.gloriacouture.com
gloriacouture@aol.com
Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
