Miami Beach International Fashion Week Designer Creates Jobs

By Annie Vazquez | anniecvazquez@yahoo.com3/16/2012

Mexican designer Fernanda Melo's 2012 Fall collection will debut at Miami Beach International Fashion Week. Called Flor Oscura which means Dark Flower, the line is more than just clothes, it's giving the indigenous people of Mexico jobs. We chatted up Melo on how she got involved in fashion, the inspiration behind her collection and how the Miami Latina fits into her line.

What inspired your collection? The embroidering of Istmo of Tehuantepec; a magical place.

What will attendees see at your runway show? 1920s [styled] silhouettes, simple cuts, hand embroidered flowers over black silks as a main element.

Being of Mexican descent, means that you understand the Hispanic woman's body and style. How does this relate to your Miami client? My collection is timeless in its design and its silhouettes.

What do you love about designing? My motivation in fashion is working with indigenous communities and vulnerable groups in my country.

What are you hoping to gain out of Miami Beach International Fashion Week? I hope that people [see] the magic and creativity that comes from these designs.

What famous designer do you admire the most?  Naeem Khan, Elie Saab, Tom Ford and Vera Wang.