SocialMiami looks at Gala Fashion

with Rene Ruiz

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? 
20 years

What kind of clothes are you best known for and who is your ideal client? 
I am probably best known for my evening gowns. My ideal client is a woman who loves fashion and is not just looking to purchase a dress, but rather have a more personal experience. We work with our client’s in either creating a custom garment for them or in finding the ideal ready-to-wear look.

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?
Micro payettes are very hot this season as well as light weight brocades. I expect we will see a lot of bling and color for this coming social season.

A custom-made gown is a collaboration between the client and the designer – or is it? How do most of your clients articulate what they want?
We try to make the entire experience a collaboration whether custom or purchasing something that is already made. Some clients come in with a very specific idea – perhaps inspired by something that they saw on a celebrity worn at the Oscars, others come in asking us what works best for their silhouette. After 20 years and thousands of gowns – we can usually tell pretty quickly what works for a specific client’s need. We don’t advertises – our best advertisement is a happy client and in 20 years we have never had a return!