AUGUST 18, 19, 20 2014 LAS VEGAS CONVENITON CENTER

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I became a designer simply due to my love of textiles. I love color and creating dynamic prints that stand out. My designs are for women who intend to make a powerful yet simple statement with their style. I didn’t find pieces that were both artsy and wearable in the market place. I like to standout but don’t want to look too ostentatious.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?It’s dynamic, colorful, rich, and has a very artistic point of view. The line is for a grown woman who knows what she likes and isn’t too overly reliant or dependent on trends. My customers know what they like and feel comfortable in their own skin so are okay with the attention colorful clothes will bring them.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?It’s different, it’s fresh, and you are not going to see everyone else in clothes like this. You are guaranteed many compliments when you wear these pieces. My customers know who they are, are comfortable in their own skin and love to stand out.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?There were several highlights. Meeting the other designers was really special; everyone was so nice and supportive. Another was meeting folks who were actually familiar withthe brand. They had either seen it on-line, through articles that I have written, or were already aware of the brand. All of these experiences were really special.

BRAND:

BusayoDESIGNER:

Busayo Michelle OluponaLOCATION:

New YorkWEB:

busayonyc.com

BUSAYO

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I wanted to share the talents that I discovered I had and get my ideas and values out into the marketplace. I wanted to convey my vision on women’s fashion for the 21st century, with intentions to break the cycle of environmental and human rights abuse in garment manufacturing.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?Doubtless USA’s styles are flattering and strong. They are appropriate for professional and evening occasions with style details and textures you won’t see anywhere else.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?My clothes are easy to style and easy to wear day-into-night. They are comfortable yet flattering and are fashion-forward and eye-catching without being extreme.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?All the positive feedback I received from potential buyers. Very exciting!

BRAND:

Doubtless U.S.ADESIGNER:

Meredith McClintockLOCATION:

San Francisco, CAWEB:

namelessusa.com

DOUBTLESS U.S.A

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I cannot remember a time when I didn’t want to create something, whether it be fashion designs or painting. Creative pursuits are my passion.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?The best way to describe my brand is a bit of hippie and grunge with a splash of quirkiness. I really love playing with prints and patterns as well as mixing different fabric textures.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?I believe that I bring a unique perspective to designing clothes for tweens and teens because I am one myself. I feel that I understand what we like to wear and that comfort is just as important as style.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?WWD MAGIC was one of the best experiences I have had as a fashion designer. The highlight for me was making connections with other inspiring designers from the showcase. I also have to mention all the incredible people I met in the industry from manufacturing and fabric sourcing. The whole experience really opened my eyes to all the limitless possibilities. I feel so grateful to have been part of the Emerging Designers!

BRAND:

Isabella Rose TaylorDESIGNER:

Isabella Rose TaylorLOCATION:

Austin, TXWEB:

isabellarosetaylor.com

ISABELLA ROSE TAYLOR

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I’ve always been very creative growing up. Any time I would wear one of my pieces out someone would stop and ask me where I got it. I wanted to become a designer to share my creativity with others and allow them to be able to rock unique pieces that are not be available to them.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?My necklace line is Boho meets rock and roll. Think Pocahontas as a rock star. I keep the earthy, tribal feel with the leather, and add metal and pop of color to glam it up.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?What makes my brand appealing is its uniqueness. No one has seen anything out there like my necklaces. People don’t want to be like everyone else and that’s why they love my line.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?I think the best experience for me was all of the connections I was able to make and all the amazing people I was able to meet. It was a great learning experience! I walked away from that week looking forward to amazing things in the future.

BRAND:

Love + LeatherDESIGNER:

Renee TobiasLOCATION:

FloridaWEB:

loveandleather.com

LOVE + LEATHER

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I always had a strong interest in what I wear and in designing my own clothing. I loved helping others make choices about what they wear and how to match their accessories to help them look great. Fashion was my hobby until I realized my job as an accountant was not a satisfying one. It was then I decided to move to New York to attend the prestigious Parsons school of design and pursue a career in Fashion design.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?We are a Canadian based fashion line that creates clothing for the conscious modern woman. The label has gained popularity for its soft-luxurious lambskin leather dresses, pants, tops and jackets. The label’s philosophy lies in the appreciation of high-end style, quality of finish, and luxury of fabric.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?Our brand philosophy is based on 3 core values. These values are loved and appreciated by today’s modern consumer. The first key factor that cannot be compromised in the making of this brand is its Quality. The second is the affordability of the brand. High quality does not always necessarily entail high price. We bring exceptional value to our customers by collaborating with new setups, like ourselves, that gives us an opportunity to grow together while maintaining low cost. The last is Social Consciousness. We make an honest effort to collaborate with companies that abide by fair trade and fair labor principles.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?Being selected as 1 of the 14 emerging designers for the WWDMAGIC show case was a great opportunity. It enabled me to build connections with not only the fashion industry professionals, but emerging designers like myself. It was a great platform to meet buyers and build relationships. It was one of the most amazing experiences.

BRAND:

MalikaDESIGNER:

Malika RajaniLOCATION:

Calgary, CanadaWEB:

malikacouture.com

MALIKA

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?To inspire and teach women that they are beautiful creatures.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?Nina K.L embodies a “fresh” take on the definition of “pretty”. The label combines simple body contouring silhouettes with a bold feminine attitude. We understand that every woman has their own body shape and we create silhouettes that conform to their own beautiful figure.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?It speaks to modern and business savvy women who wear what they love. Our customers love to wear these pieces over and over again, and tailor them in inventive ways that enhance their inner beauty.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The most memorable experience was meeting all the other designers and sharing our stories. We became like a family of artists who continue to work toward our goals together. I also enjoyed meeting Hal Rubenstein, and loved the photos of the LA Fashion Magazine media group!

BRAND:

Nina K.L.DESIGNER:

Nina LamannaLOCATION:

Austin, TexasWEB:

ninakl.com

NINA K.L.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I have always wanted to be a designer. I enjoy the process of creating something that I believe in. It’s amazing to be a designer as it is so rewarding to see how people are living in your designs and how you have enriched their lives with what you have created.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?Paula Cheng caters quality material. We provide superior fit and elegant draping to cosmopolitan women who understand the importance of style, comfort, and versatility of modern dressing.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?The brand offers light weight cashmere-silk knits that can bring looks from day to night. We also provide accessories that are versatile and easy to wear in all occasions. Styles range from slimming dresses to convertible cashmere silk tops. The garments and accessories are designed to make professional womenfeel confident, sexy, and elegant.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?Meeting fellow designers and the WWDMAGIC organizers who put this show together to give designers like myself an opportunity. It was truly a wonderful experience and we hope we will be showing at MAGIC again very soon!

BRAND:

Paula ChengDESIGNER:

Paula ChengLOCATION:

New YorkWEB:

paulacheng.com

PAULA CHENG

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I became a designer because my first love has always been fashion. What fashion does for people is magical! Clothes set the tone for every day and are your own form of self expression. You can say that clothes unleash the artist in us all, so what better way for me to express my art then through fashion! I love making beautifulclothes for beautiful people... and that means everyone! The right clothes make you feel amazing and I want to make everyone feel as such.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?Futuristic, vintage, and fashion heirlooms.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?The clothes are classic, timeless, with a modern twist and minimalism. The clothes we make are not only for you to enjoy but also to pass on to your kids and generations to come.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The love I felt at Magic will stay in my heart forever. Everyone was so amazing! The show was full of beautiful people sharing and expressing who they are. MAGIC is MAGICAL . I made friendships there that I know I will have for life. The energy was incredible and I am beyond grateful to WWDMAGIC and Fashion Business Inc for this opportunity. I’d like to thank all of the staff, Emerging Designers, and the UNIVERSE for this blessing.

BRAND:

RosarioDESIGNER:

Mario De La TorreLOCATION:

Los Angeles, CAWEB:

rosariola.com

ROSARIO

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I first discovered my love of fashion doing theatre as a child. I noticed that I didn’t find my character until I put on my costume. Since then I’ve been fascinated by the effect clothing has on people who wear them.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?I grew up in South Florida and moved to New York City after graduating from the University of Alabama. The House of Perna blends my life experiences. It juxtaposes the sophistication of New York with the colors, prints and movement of Miami.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?It’s sophisticated but sexy, classic but modern, chic but wearable. It’s utile in the sense that most of the line can be worn in any situation. Our jet set customers can wear many of the pieces on the plane and later change shoes when they land and go straight out to dinner.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The experience was amazing from start to finish. It was my first time to Vegas and I loved it! It was incredible meeting so many other talented emerging designers, bloggers, and buyers. It was great getting our feet wet at MAGIC.

BRAND:

The House of PernaDESIGNER:

Amanda PernaLOCATION:

Miami, FLWEB:

thehouseofperna.com

THE HOUSE OF PERNA

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I wanted to do something creative and utilitarian. I decided to study fashion design after taking some classes at FIT while in high school. After interning for Oscar de la Renta and working for J. Mendel and Zac Posen, I took my passion for over-the-top evening wear and simplified it to a tee shirt.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?Toy Syndrome designs are basics with a personality. Wearing something simple like a tee shirt or a sweatshirt doesn’t have to be boring. Using 3D ‘Toy Embroidery’, dying techniques and color blocking, Toy Syndrome achieves a unique perspective on sportswear.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?It’s simple, yet original. My brand is appealing to those that are youthful in body or in mind. It is for people that like to play with their style and stand out while wearing something easy.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The whole WWDMAGIC experience was amazing, especially the people. Everyone was so supportive starting with the WWD Magic team and including the designers, the visitors, and bloggers. It felt like a community.

BRAND:

Toy SyndromeDESIGNER:

Natalya NynLOCATION:

New YorkWEB:

toysyndrome.com

TOY SYNDROME

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?Being brought up in India allowed me to be surrounded by a wealth of culture and tradition. There has always been art around me and color is a big part of the Indian consciousness. Clothing is one of the ways I can express my desire to create bright, beautiful things while being inspired by what I see around me every day. The amalgamation of Western clothing using Indian techniques has been my goal. After having graduated from Parsons School of Design in NYC, the process has been interesting and challenging.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?We create pieces that are timeless and unique. We incorporate handloom fabrics into our designs as well as hand embroideries and block prints from various parts of India. This process allows us to create a perfect blend of intricate Indian craftwork in modern clothing that is easy to wear and elegant. Our ready-to-wear clothing is a compelling addition to the wardrobe of the optimistic, progressive, well traveled, sophisticated and confident woman.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?We are extremely proud of our fabrics. We use a wide variety of natural handloom and eco-friendly fibers. Our silhouettes are classic and comfortable, suitable for varied body types. We incorporate a lot of custom-designed prints and texture, something our customers look forward to.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The team at WWDMAGIC was incredibly helpful, enthusiastic and lovely to work with. It has been a great experience to meet buyers and media all under one roof at one of the largest tradeshows in North America. However, the icing on the cake was when our looks were selected by Hal Rubenstein for the Final Runway Show.

BRAND:

ZivaDESIGNER:

Srishti KhuranaLOCATION:

San Francisco, CAWEB:

zivainc.com

ZIVA

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?I have always been into fashion, but it was less my choice and more that it chose me. I had made some bracelets with my teenage daughter at a local bead store and took them to a friend’s grab bag party. They were so popular some of the girls asked if they could buy them. I sat at my kitchen table and made enough to take to a local high-end boutique. They sold out the same day and ordered more. Back at my kitchen table that night I realized I may be able to start a jewelry business and Shoshanna Lee Jewelry was born.

HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?The combination of the stones, design, and the way each piece is handmade. To bead is to bow ones head in prayer. Every piece is made in a serene and spiritual environment, which I think is reflected in the design and the feel of each piece.

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND APPEALING TO CONSUMERS TODAY?Customers say we make a statement with our vibrant stones adding drama to delicate design. Layered, stacked, or kept simple, our jewelry fulfills the dream of jewelry lovers and style savvy women around the world. We pick highest quality materials. Importantly, our customers, department stores, and boutiques (here or overseas) recognize us as providing highly responsive, caring and personal customer service at an attractive price point.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE AS AN OFFICIAL EMERGING DESIGNER AT WWDMAGIC?The opportunity to get exposure to buyers and so many of my pieces being picked for the fashion shows every day.

BRAND:

Shoshanna LeeDESIGNER:

Sandee ZahnLOCATION:

Chicago, ILWEB:

shoshanna-lee.myshopify.com

SHOSHANNA LEE

CO-PRESENTED BY:

AUGUST 18, 19, 20 2014 LAS VEGAS CONVENITON CENTER

Co-hosted by Fashion Business Incorporated and Global Purchasing Companies, the Emerging Designer Showcase was created to support new fashion companies as they start their journey selling to retail.

We are now accepting applications for our August 2014 Emerging Designer Showcase. Selected participants will benefit from premium front of hall space at August’s WWDMAGIC in Las Vegas — delivering brand-building exposure to a targeted base of 30,000 retail buyers.

WWDMAGIC will provide table space, chairs, electricity; along with one rolling rack and one body form (for apparel designers) or two shelving units (for accessories designers).

FOR CONSIDERATION, PLEASE SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING:

• INDICATION OF CATEGORY: APPAREL OR ACCESSORIES • LINE SHEETS• LOOKBOOK• WEBSITE OR OTHER MARKETING MATERIALS• FINANCIAL BUSINESS PLAN

FEE TO PARTICIPATE: $900.00SUBMISSION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2014

Please send submissions to: dpietranczyk@magiconline.com