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Sophia Reyes, a Parsons graduate and 2008 winner of Gen Art’s Fresh Faces in Fashion, has been designing versatile, yet sumptuous, lines in Chicago for the past few years. Sophia’s designs meet at the crossroads of romantic and rebellious, with touches of vintage on the side. In an interview with her, Sophia shows how to give a little allure and mystery to the fashionable woman in her Fall 2009 collection.

What inspired you to create your line?
My love for the craft and the ability to connect with others.

What is the most salient point you would want potential customers to know
about the line?
Effortless, go-to pieces that can be dressed up or down.

Do you have a muse? Who is the woman for whom you are designing?
My muse is not a specific person, but a type of personality. She has a loud infectious
laugh. Her unique sense of style makes her magnetic.
I design for a chic, confident, slightly rebellious woman.

How did your experiences at Parsons shape who you are now as a designer?
In a highly (yet healthy) competitive environment, you learn to constantly push yourself
as a designer and to embraced the talent and hard work of others.

Who are your favorite designers?
Valentino, Chanel, Alber Elbaz (Lanvin)

Where do you turn for inspiration?
Color, collages, and emotion.

Could you tell me a little bit more about the Fall/Holiday 2009 collection?
The fall inspiration came from watching a marathon of murder mysteries and forensic
science cases. That married onto a rich palette of deep teal, wine, olive, and midnight
blue fabrics. The collection is designed with fine detailing, with hidden pockets; hand
stitched detailing, and meticulous pleating.

Is there anything else you would want our readers to know?
They can shop for the collection at sophiareyes.com and can keep in touch via
facebook @ facebook.com/pages/sophia-reyes/86592556435.

All pieces are manufactured locally, in the U.S.A.
sophia reyes was one of Gen Art’s Fresh Faces in Fashion in 2008.

Current stockists:
Besides the current stockist listed on the website, there will be a mini pop-up shop at
Totem boutique, in Hindsdale, IL in Oct. shoptotem.com.

Images via sophiareyes.com