Open House

The CFDA’s fashion incubator program has served as the industry’s introduction to some major talents over the years and the class of 2014 is no exception. Stopping by the annual open house is a thrilling sneak peek at the future of fashion. Get to know the rising stars who make up fashion’s next generation and take a look their inventive designs.

Photos by Betty Sze for Models.com


LUCIO CASTRO

Filmmaker and menswear designer, Lucio Castro spent time at Marc Jacobs, DKNY Jeans and Armani Exchange before starting his eponymous line. Focusing on elegant basics for the modern gent, Castro infuses quirky details and ultra-luxurious touches into a dapper yet casual collection. His latest pieces draw inspiration from esoteric influences like Art-deco book covers and André Gide’s The Immoralist.

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NOMIA

Native New Yorker, Yara Flinn spent time studying art at Oberlin College before delving into fashion. Her interest in design led her to the Fondazione Prada and time spent studying at FIT. Her impressive line, Nomia focusses on minimal aesthetic elevated by unexpected details. Flinn’s updated bomber-jacket in an inky colored faux Astrakhan was one of the coolest pieces we saw all day.

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KATIE ERMILIO

Katie Ermilio comes from a long line of designers (her grandfather was Hollywood legend, Grace Kelly’s personal clothier) so it’s no surprise that her clothes display a sophistication beyond her years. Her ladylike collection is dainty, but with a touch of modernity that gives each cocktail dress and chubby fur feel timely. Already a favorite with starlets, you can spot Ermilio’s creations on well-heeled stars like Michelle Williams and Taylor Swift.

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DEZSO

Sarah Beltrán’s unique position as a fashion stylist, turned artist and designer makes her the perfect person to shake things up in the world of fine jewelry. Her line Dezso combines the a fascinating array of materials – fossilized shells and shark teeth alongside diamonds and emeralds – to create a look that is organic and arresting.

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KARA

Former Gap accessories designer, Sarah Law knows a thing or two about what makes an appealing handbag. Law’s appealing collection, Kara is imbued with downtown cool but never loses track of its practicality. These are bags for girls on go who don’t have time for frou-frou or fussy. Kara’s leather satchels and backpacks have already made a splash at selective stores like Opening Ceremony and Ssense, so it’s only a matter of time before you’re seeing these minimal designs everywhere.

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ISA TAPIA

With a resume that includes time spent at Marc Jacobs and Oscar de la Renta, Isa Tapia has a bonafide fashion pedigree and it shows in her creations. Creating high heels with a fearless and fun vibe, Tapia sets herself apart from the pack with unapologetically feminine designs that resonate with clients from Bergdorf Goodman to Dubai’s exclusive Level Shoe District.

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ORLEY

Designers Matthew Orley, Alex Orley, and Samantha Florence of Orley, bring the wit and whimsy back to menswear with a collection of colorful knitwear filled with pattern and texture. Manufactured in Italy and utilizing the finest in materials, the line has a touch of retro eclecticism while being firmly rooted in the now.

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