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Tap in, fashionistas: You're going to want to know Liliana Mijangos's name. For one, she's already making a *huge* splash in the fashion industry as the youngest designer to ever showcase their work at New York and Los Angeles Fashion Week(s). And aside from pouring her heart into every ultra chic piece (no one does a glam gown quite like Liliana, peep the proof here), she's using her talents for good—making it her mission to create clothing that's inclusive and accessible for all fash lovers.

We caught up with Liliana to chat about her up-and-coming brand (hello, LC Couture!), her artistic inspirations and her goals for her—v. bright—future. 

Girls' Life: You are the youngest designer to ever showcase at New York Fashion Week *and* Los Angeles Fashion Week. Can you tell us about your journey to reach this milestone?

Liliana Mijangos: I started out modeling in New York and L.A.and had this dream to one day showcase my designs on those amazing runways. After walking at New York Fashion Week, I seized a pivotal moment by approaching the event director. We chatted and sparked a connection, leading to a life-changing opportunity. I showed the director some of my designs from my phone and ended up piquing her interest. What followed was a whirlwind—a full line showcase in February 2022 that left a major mark on my journey.

GL: What drew you to fashion design in the first place? 

Liliana: I've always been fascinated by fashion. It all started with the inspiration from my sister Cecilia. My sister has special needs and uses a wheelchair, so it was really hard to find outfits that were comfy for her and easy to put on. I took it upon myself to start designing and making clothes that would be accessible for her. I love fashion because it's a way to express yourself. There's so much you can create with imagination. 

@liliana.mijangos

GL: Tell us about your style! How would you describe your designs?

Liliana: I try to prioritize both functionality and flair. I find my inspiration from everything and anything that catches my eyes: from the vibrant hues of flowers to the delicate feathers of birds to the shapes of clouds. Once I find something that catches my eye, I immediately start sketching my vision.

GL: Who are your style influences?

Liliana: I don't have one specific influence. I try to create anything from '60s-inspired pieces to more futuristic styles.

Photo by Thierry Brouard

GL: What is your fave piece you've designed?

Liliana: My fave piece of fashion I've designed was a pink chiffon dress that I showcased at L.A. Fashion Week 2023. It had beaded flowers on the front chest area, a short frilly skirt that went above the knees and off-the-shoulder puffed sleeves. A tulle fabric train was made inside the skirt and it had a big bow in the back. The inspiration for this design was a camellia flower.

GL: Can you tell us about a moment in your career where you learned a difficult lesson? How'd you grow from it?

Liliana: When I first started, I was criticized a lot for being a young designer. People thought that, due to my age,  I knew nothing about fashion, shouldn't be a part of the runway culture and wouldn't get far. But I didn't give up on a dream just because people said I couldn't accomplish it. I learned to keep going after my passion!

GL: You have a passion for accessibility and inclusivity in the fashion industry, thanks in part to your sister. Can you tell us more about that?

Liliana: I started making outfits for my sister with special needs. I started coming up with ideas on how I can make something accessible for her but still have that "Wow" look! My grandma also helped in bringing my ideas to life from my drawings to the real outfits.

@liliana.mijangos

GL: What advice would you give to girls who dream of working in the fashion industry? 

Liliana: The advice that I'd give is to have confidence! It helps to have a plan so you can stay focused and motivated. Surround yourself with positive people and visualize your success. Don't give up, just know that there will be setbacks but those are only opportunities to learn. Become a good learner, as you'll appreciate the experiences of both success and failure. Most of all, believe in yourself and keep a positive outlook!

Photo by Thierry Brouard

GL: Is there anything else you'd like GL readers to know about you and your journey? Any other news to share?

Liliana: A few fun facts about me: I'm also an actor, and I'm a *huge* theme park girl. If I'm not designing or acting, you'll probably find me at Disneyland or Universal Studios. I crochet, swim, dance and paint in my free time. I also love spending time with my fam and my new puppy, Echo!

Follow Liliana on IG here to keep up with her exciting future in fashion!

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Top image: Jose Martinez
Slider image: Tamara Tihanyi

by Erin Sargent and Hailey Lynne | 10/30/2024