Designer 17: Vanessa Duke

Entry Category: Student Designer, studying at International Academy of Design & Technology

Designer Name: Vanessa Duke

Line: Vanessa A. Duke

Branding Statement/ Bio Info:

Sophisticated, wearable & contemporary wardrobe for  women of all ages

My aesthetic encompasses a palette for the modern and elegant woman, of any age.  As an eternal old soul, I long to bring back the days when women (and men) made an effort to dress up for every occasion.  I hope to bring that past zeitgeist into the modern, by creating pieces that make women feel and look elegant and feminine, while incorporating functionality and comfort.  My garments are never ‘stuffy’ as it is not conducive to comfort and the constant busy life of a woman.  My line offers elegant separates and lovely dresses that may be worn for nearly every occasion with a simple change of accessories, thus, functionality meets versatility.

My clients are women between the ages of 25 - 60+ who desire to infuse femininity and modernity into her wardrobe. Versatility for work, evening and weekend are kept in mind without a compromise in quality or aesthetic.  Not every piece will suit all ages, as some garments will be slightly trendier than others or slightly more appropriate for a certain age group, yet overall, my line incorporates the appropriate amount of modesty in a very modern approach. 

My line’s differentiating factor stems from the conscious attention to modern and unexpected details:  details at the back of the garment (i.e. no ‘coffin’ garments), pleats and tucks of varying rhythm, contrasting panels, insets, and keyholes.   While garments in the contemporary category fit smaller and leaner bodies, my line incorporates those same contemporary elements (sans the shorter hemlines) into a missy category that is rarely found.  A few popular complaints among many age groups are the lack of sleeves (in any length) and higher necklines- my line addresses these issues in the majority of my pieces.  Sleeves are very underrated, as is a boatneck neckline (one of my signature elements).

 Inspirations are always very personal.  Mine are mainly drawn from fauna and flora.  My love for animals never ceases to make me smile from within, which provides a clean palette for inspirations.

Label Price Point: $350- $900

Desired Vendors: Local boutiques (Les Amis, La Ree, House of Fashion, The Finerie, Rue)

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