Omaha Fashion Week's next season is just around the corner, and we're thrilled to share more about our amazing lineup of designers!
Featured designer Rodger Figueroa presents a collection with a strong message in order to bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking. It features hand-printed textiles and uniquely structured silhouettes. Read on to learn more about his passion for a personal connection with fashion!
How did you get into fashion? Share a little about your background.
I have been designing and putting together inspiration boards since I was ten years old. Although my skills weren't great at a young age, I knew my future would be in the creative field. I took photography, videography, web design and many other classes that shaped my vision in fashion as a whole. I enrolled in college to get my degree in Apparel Design and Technology. Since then, I have gained a lot of knowledge in the construction side of fashion.
Describe your brand and the point of view you wish to convey.
My brand is aesthetically pleasing with a clean edited vision in all of my designs. It represents individuals who are confident, fashionable, edgy, and futuristic. I would say that all my customers share one thing and that’s the personal connection with fashion. My customer base varies from age, gender, class, and personal beliefs, and that’s what I truly love about my work.
Roger Figueroa's first Fashion Week collection.
What are your personal goals, or goals for your brand?
My goals for my brand are to continue growing and developing a consistent clientele from all over the states and outside of the country. I hope to expand and eventually own a storefront in Los Angeles or New York City, where I want to continue working in the fashion industry as a creative designer. My personal goal is to continue to allow myself to see all of the beauty and darkness in this world, then turn it into art that speaks positivity.
Describe your favorite project(s) that you have worked on.
I would have to say that my favorite project is this new collection for Omaha Fashion Week. I think its message, silhouettes, and passion are unbeatable.
Custom-made Prom gown.
Where do you look for inspiration?
I like to open my mind to new and different things all the time. I think that’s the best way to not limit my creativity. I often find inspiration in nature, architecture, music, or stories.
Vol. 5 is a collection inspired to bring awareness to the cruel reality of human trafficking. In this collection you will see structural designs, hand painted prints, and a color storyline that all ties to the issue.
Describe some of the specific inspiration for your new collection.
Vol. 5 is a collection meant to bring awareness to the cruel reality of human trafficking. In this collection you will see structural designs, hand painted prints, and a color storyline that all ties to the issue. This collection will be a bold and powerful statement speaking against a social issue that still exists worldwide, and even in our local communities.
Inspiration board for upcoming collection.
What kind of materials do you use and why?
For this collection I will be using neoprene - scuba knits mixed with lightweight fabrics. For my finale gown, I will be using recycled fabrics to bring a positive message of having a second chance in life and making something beautiful of out it. This is one my my messages to the issue of human trafficking and its victims.
How do you balance creativity and consistency in your work?
Having a consistent aesthetic can be hard. I think the key to achieving it is recreating something inspired by your past work in a way that it still makes it different and unique.
To learn more about Roger and his work, visit his website and follow along on Facebook and Instagram as he continues to prepare for the runway! And be sure to grab tickets to Omaha Fashion Week February 27-March 3!