By Javier Muñiz
Special to The Star
“Lavish Sahara” is the name of the latest collection by fashion designer Reynaldo José.
Runway 7 Fashion observed the work of Puerto Rican designers at Expomoda and later offered Reynaldo and 15 other designers the opportunity to present at New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The show, scheduled for this Thursday at the Sony Hall in the Paramount Hotel Times Square is a moment Reynaldo has been yearning for since childhood.
He began to show an interest in fashion at the tender age of 12. With his parents’ support, his talents flourished. Reynaldo entered a contest and because of his extraordinary skill obtained the Fashion Designer of the New Millennium award from Imagen Magazine.
During this time, designer Liza Thon became his mentor. He once said, “Having her support changed my life and I also decided to become a teacher. Taking part in the professional development of other artists is very fulfilling.”
At NYFW, the designer/educator will unveil his Winter-Fall 2024-25 collection with a palette of warm tones ranging from brick, burgundy, cream and coffee, gold, olive green and yellow ocher.
“I have always been inspired by cultures, countries, their art and history,” Reynaldo said. “In this case I chose the Sahara Desert for its majesty and visual richness. Moreover, it reminds me of a difficult time in my life that over time I recovered from. Little by little I found my oasis.”
A new chapter in Reynaldo José’s life is about to begin with his participation at NYFW, as he introduces his collection that evokes the fluidity and movement of the Sahara sands. Fabrics and textiles such as brocade, faux fur, lace, linen, embroidered organzas, sequined fabrics and silk crepe are used to create loose silhouettes in casual to elegant cocktail gowns and formal categories for women and men.
Reynaldo José is well known for his glamorous and bohemian flair. Because of the magic he creates with his clothing, he has received requests from celebrities and dignitaries for head-to-toe styling. In the past he’s made extravagant creations that pay homage to icons such as Walter Mercado and Juan Gabriel.
Reynaldo José’s fellow Runway 7 / Expomoda selectees Gax Company, Marissa Santiago, MyThik, Rosa Mercedes, Mateo Manuel, Soleatta, The Only One, Norma Nazario, Monarch Club, Carlota Alfaro, Rudeth Leon, A Pereira, Lorraine Ortiz and Costura Carlos Alberto will be presenting their collections the same day at the same NYFW venue.