How I Start Designing a Collection
Creating a new collection for the brand is an exciting yet complex process that requires a mix of inspiration, vision, and meticulous craftsmanship. As a designer, one of the most common questions I receive is, “How do you start designing a collection?" It’s a great question, and over the years, I’ve realized that the journey to a cohesive, inspiring collection begins with a single spark of inspiration—an idea, a place, a memory, or even a feeling.
In this blog post, I want to share my personal approach to starting a collection, including how inspiration strikes, how I translate that into designs, and the importance of storytelling through fashion. Whether you’re a budding designer or a seasoned professional, understanding the initial steps can set the tone for a successful and meaningful collection. Plus, I’ll include insights into my most recent collection—Resort 2026—and how it exemplifies this creative process.
The Creative Process Begins with Inspiration
Every collection begins with a story, a mood, or a visual cue that sparks the creative fire. Inspiration can come from anywhere for me—travel, art, nature, music, personal experiences, or even a simple moment in daily life. For me, the journey into designing a new collection often starts with a trip or a visit that profoundly moves me.
From Inspiration to Concept: Developing Your Collection Theme
Once I have a clear source of inspiration, the next step is to develop a cohesive concept or theme. This helps guide the design process, ensuring that each piece contributes to the overall story. Think of your collection as a narrative—every garment is a chapter or scene that adds depth to the story.
For example, my subsequent collections explored textures, materials, and tactile experiences. I became fascinated by textiles manipulation, the shimmer of mother-of-pearl shells, and the ASMR-like qualities of fabrics like raffia and raffia-like textures. These elements became my signature motifs, allowing my collections to evolve while maintaining a recognizable brand identity.
Drawing from Materials and Textures
Materials are an essential part of storytelling in fashion design. My approach often involves experimenting with different textiles, manipulating them in creative ways, and exploring their sensory qualities.
Materials Inspiration:
Sea shells and mother-of-pearl: Their ethereal glow and timeless beauty inspired a collection that celebrated natural elegance.
Raffia straw: Their tactile quality and the sounds they produce when brushed against evoke a sense of movement and serenity, reminiscent of breezy summer days.
Shiny accents and metallics: These reflect my childhood fascination with anything shiny, adding a playful yet luxurious touch to my designs.
Incorporating these materials not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates an immersive experience for the wearer—one that engages the senses beyond just sight.
The Power of Storytelling in Fashion Collections
A successful collection is more than just a group of garments; it’s a narrative that resonates emotionally. I’ve been fortunate to receive feedback from customers, industry peers, and press outlets noting that each new collection becomes stronger and more cohesive. This evolution is driven by a clear story and strong brand codes that allow the designs to live independently while still belonging to a larger universe.
For instance, my latest collection—Resort 2026—is inspired by the serene beauty of Ubud, Bali. The collection captures the peaceful charm of rice terraces, lush rainforests, and the spiritual essence of Balinese culture. It’s a story told through textiles, handcrafted details, and the energy of a place that embodies harmony between nature and heritage.
The Creative Journey: From Inspiration to Final Collection
The process of transforming inspiration into a finished collection involves several steps:
1. Research and Mood Boards: Gathering visual references, textures, colors, and cultural elements to set the tone.
2. Sketching and Concept Development: Creating initial sketches that interpret the mood and story visually.
3. Material Selection and Experimentation: Choosing fabrics, trims, and embellishments that align with the vision.
4. Prototype Creation: Developing samples to test design ideas, fit, and craftsmanship.
5. Refinement and Finalization: Tweaking designs based on prototypes, ensuring each piece tells part of the story.
This process is iterative and deeply personal. It’s about patience, exploration, and trusting your intuition.
Craftsmanship and Sustainability: The Heart of My Collections
In my atelier in Mexico City, I believe that craftsmanship elevates each collection. Every piece is meticulously handcrafted, emphasizing quality and attention to detail. This dedication to craftsmanship ensures that each garment not only looks beautiful but also carries a soul.
Sustainability is also a core value. I prioritize working with local artisans, sourcing eco-friendly materials, and creating timeless designs that can be worn for years, not seasons. This approach aligns with my belief that fashion should be a reflection of respect—for people, culture, and our planet.
Connecting with Your Audience Through Your Collection
A collection’s success hinges on its ability to connect emotionally with the wearer. By telling a compelling story—whether inspired by travel, culture, or personal memories—you create pieces that resonate on a deeper level. Your audience should feel transported, inspired, or understood when they wear your designs.
My collections have evolved over time, becoming more refined and cohesive, thanks to a clear narrative and consistent brand identity. This evolution keeps my audience excited and engaged, knowing that each new collection offers something meaningful and authentic.
Final Thoughts: Starting Your Own Design Journey
If you’re wondering how to start designing your own collection, remember that inspiration can strike anywhere—through travel, art, nature, or everyday life. The key is to listen to what moves you and let that guide your creative process. Develop a theme or story, experiment with materials, and craft a narrative that reflects your unique perspective.
Whether you’re inspired by the colorful streets of Marrakech or the tranquil rice terraces of Bali, your collection should embody that essence. And most importantly, embrace craftsmanship, storytelling, and authenticity in every piece.
About My Latest Collection: Resort 2026 Inspired by Bali
My latest collection, Resort 2026, embodies the tranquil spirit of Ubud, Bali. This collection is a love letter to Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, featuring handcrafted garments that combine traditional techniques with modern elegance. Photographed amidst Bali’s lush landscapes, each piece breathes the soul of a place where nature and spirituality intertwine.
From flowing silhouettes inspired by Balinese textiles to intricate details reflecting local craftsmanship, Resort 2026 invites you to connect with a distant, serene world through fashion. It’s about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating a sense of belonging and timeless elegance rooted in cultural richness.
