Miami Fashion Week's Emerging Designer, Francisco Quadros

Hey Francisco, Congratulations on being named Miami Fashion Week's Emerging Designer! The line you presented at the show was fabulous!! You must have been so excited!

I know you have a lot of old and new fans alike who would like to find out a little more about you, so lets get to it!

When did you first know that you wanted to be a designer?
When I was 27 and decided to get the professional skills.

How much of your childhood influenced that decision?
A lot. I went to design school when I was 10 and already designed outfits for my mother that was pregnant at that time.
At age 8 I made my first dress for my little sister made of plastic wrap that was from a refrigerator my parents bought, it was very cool.

You attended Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, I graduated from the Associates program in 2003 and took off 4 years, than I went back for the Bachelors program and in June 09 I will be graduating.

How much do you think school benefited your career?
It benefitted a lot. When I started in 2000 I didn't even know that designers must know construction, patterns, sewing, etc.
It opened my eyes and tought me a lot from the industry.

And when did you produce your first line?
I produced my first line professionally in 2007.


What is the inspiration behind your current line?
I am always inspired by many things since my style is worldly. However, my current line was inspired by simplicity, romanticism and feminism.

How do you go about choosing the fabric and print for your line?
First I determine the theme I am looking for then I incorporate relating the fabrics and colors.

When a woman puts on a "Francisco Quadros, " how do you want your clothing to make her feel?
I want her to feel empowered, intelligent and classic. My all time favorite description of my foundation is the classic style.

Beth Sobol has a very strong reputation in fashion, here in South Florida and the Latin markets. What does it mean to you to have her recognize your talent and showcase you as an Emerging Designer of MFW?
I was flattered to be in the competition and to be part of the top 5, specially when the competition was very difficult with so many designers.
I am thankful that Beth gave me the opportunity to be in the show and I believe this show will be a mark in my career followed by recognition that every designer seeks.

When you first found out that you had been given that title, who was the first person you told?
My partner.

And after your showing on the MFW catwalk, how did you celebrate afterward?
I went to the After Glow party that night, it was beautiful!

Where do you want to take your career from here?
I will continue doing what I am doing and continue having faith and passion.

We have a lot of design students and new designers who read our blog, what advice would you give them in starting their careers?
Believe in yourself and don't listen to people that are not interested. Your time will come and you will be recognized.

Do you think the weak economy has affected or slowed your career?
Yes. A lot. I had 6 sales reps and now I am down to 1. Boutiques over bought inventory, now most of businesses are stuck waiting for a boost.

In the business of design, what are your priorities?
Make the client happy and deliver something I am proud of.

How would you describe your personal style?
Classic & Sleek

Who is your favorite designer of all time and why?
Chanel. She is my favorite - not for her designs but for her guts, audacity, entrepeneur skills and her persistance.

Speaking of current styles, what is your favorite trend right now?
I really don't like to follow trends, which are relative. You may think blue is the trend and lots of people don't like blue and they won't buy.
So trend to me is subjective.

Which trend do you think is just so-over?
The 80's

What 3 essentials do you think every woman should have in her closet?
A black dress, a scarf and a white linen pant.

And for men?
A black pant, a white classic shirt and a navy blue polo shirt.

Francisco, thank you so much for your time and for letting us get to know you a little better. South Florida Style wishes you much success in your continued career, we can't wait to see where the catwalk takes you!
My pleasure, and thank you for the interest. I wish you the best with your blog and FII group.

Francisco Quadros...keep your eyes open for him and be sure to visit his website at
www.Franzoco.com