Coral Gables, FL – April 14, 2016 – Neiman Marcus Coral Gables welcomed designer Alexis Isaias, of ALEXIS, as she presented her Spring/Summer 2016 collection. Hosted by Karen Martinez, over 60 of Miami’s most fashionable attended the event. Guests enjoyed a fashion show and shopped her new collection.

World Red Eye caught up with the designer of the hour, Alexis Isaias, who gave us an inside scoop into what inspires her collections and how it all got started.

WRE: How did you first get your start in design?

AI: It was in 2008 after an entire summer island hoping the chicest spots in the Mediterranean with my family that I decided to launch ALEXIS. During that trip I took a small collection I had designed for myself to wear and after all the amazing feedback I got I knew this was something I wanted to explore.

WRE: Tell us about how your label first started?

AI: I saw that there was a need to close the gap between overly modern and inaccessible designs in the women’s contemporary fashion. In 2009 I launched my first official full Resort Collection, which I designed with my Mom out of our home office.

WRE: Tell us about the collection you are presenting at Neiman Marcus Coral Gables?

AI: We are presenting our Spring/Summer 2016 collection, which was inspired by my family’s photos and stories from Cuba. The Collection is full of vibrant colors and beautiful laces, flourishing into what I like to call “A modern day Cuba”.

WRE: Has your culture had an influenced your brand/design aesthetic?

AI: The main focus was to start a line that would be true to who I am; a reflection of my life and style. Miami has always been my home and its mix of culture and color makes ALEXIS what it is today. I feel so fortunate to be able to grow my brand and business in my hometown surrounded by the people I love most.

WRE: Where do you look for inspiration for each collection?

AI: We look at art and photography to motivate us. My ultimate inspiration are WOMEN. I’m fascinated by the different cultures, traditions, architecture and styles I encounter while traveling around the world. Vintage fashion icons and pieces are always a great source of inspiration as well.

WRE: Describe the kind of person who is rocking ALEXIS clothing?

AI: The ALEXIS woman is effortlessly chic. She is cultured, outstanding, and striking. She is a modern woman who wants to remain elegant and sophisticated.

WRE: Tell us about some of the favorite fabrics you use? Why do you like to work with these? 

AI: There is something about that unique romantic and delicate lace that we can’t resist! It is certainly something we have grown to be recognized for.

WRE: What are some things you keep in mind when designing for a woman’s body type? 

AI: The perfect fit and keeping a feminine tailoring is so important to us. We want the woman to look gorgeous and feel comfortable at the same time.

WRE: Where do you see the ALEXIS brand 10 years from now?

AI: ALEXIS has been created to be more than a clothing brand. I want it to become a lifestyle. In the future, I want the ALEXIS woman to come to us not only for clothing but also for accessories, beauty products, clothing for her children and fabulous home accessories. Honestly, my visions are endless!

Miami has always been my home and its mix of culture and color that makes ALEXIS what it is today.

Alexis Isaias