Latina Designers We Love: Alicia Estrada
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Long Beach, Ca. My mother and father were born in Mexico, so I'm Mexican-American.
How did you get started in the industry?
I started sewing when I was 16, just as a hobby. I'm so grateful to God that my hobby turned into a full-fledged business! I feel like I'm living in a dream world!
What advice would you have for someone wanting to start their own line or business?
Immerse yourself in fashion, learn everything you can about every part of this industry. Be a sponge, and never give up on your dreams,-you're going to make it!
Related: 6 Things That Inspired Designer Emilio Sosa
What were some of the challenges you faced in starting out and how did you overcome them?
I never had capital or investors, so not having money was challenging in the beginning. But in the end, not having money was the best thing for me. It forced me to learn everything about the industry, like sales, marketing, patterns, design, etc. It made me very wise with money, and this has been my greatest advantage.
Describe your customer.
A classy career women between the ages of 21-45 who is looking for beautiful dresses to wear from work, to day, to dinner. This woman embraces her curves and loves to be center of attention. She loves film, noir, and loves dresses from the 1940s. Her look is timeless and classic!
What would you say is your design signature?
Beautiful, timeless, and classic dresses that flatter all shapes and sizes.
What tips would you give our reader on wearing your designs?
Wear a Stop Staring! dress for an exciting special occasion when you want all eyes on you! Wear it with your hair curled at the tips, Veronica Lake style, and with red lipstick and red nail polish. Accessorize with either high-end accessories or a classic vintage piece of jewelry.
What is your best piece of fashion advice for women?
Always make sure your dresses fit you with a nice tailored look.
Related: Fab Fall Looks By Camila Alves
Which celebrities are most likely to be spotted in your clothes?
Zooey Deschanel, Kim Kardashian, Ashley Greene, Anna Lynn Mc Cord, Heather Graham, Brittney Spears, Lake Bell, Alexa Vega, Jillian Barberie, and of course our favorite, America Ferrera.
Which celebrity would you most like to see in your clothes?
Gwen Stefani. She wrote a song called Staring Problem. I think this might have been written about Stop Staring! When I first started my clothing line, I went to California State University-Fullerton-when Gwen attended Cal State, I was always wearing skirts and dresses that said "Stop Staring!"
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