Fashion Designers of Latin America (FDLA) is a distinguished platform dedicated to showcasing Latin American and Latinx talent within the global fashion industry. Established in 2009 by Albania Rosario, FDLA has evolved into a prominent force, offering emerging and established designers from Latin America and the Caribbean a stage to present their creations to international audiences.
Mission and Vision
FDLA’s mission is to provide exposure and opportunities for Latin American designers, many of whom possess exceptional creativity but lack financial resources. By facilitating their participation in major fashion events, FDLA aims to bridge the gap between talent and recognition. The organization emphasizes community inclusion, diversity, and the promotion of cultural heritage through fashion.
Global Presence
While FDLA’s headquarters are in New York City, the organization has extended its reach globally. It has organized events in Milan, Dubai, South Korea, and Switzerland, bringing Latin American fashion to international platforms. These global showcases have allowed designers to gain exposure and establish connections with a broader audience.
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) Participation
FDLA’s involvement in NYFW has been a significant milestone in its journey. The organization has consistently presented diverse collections that celebrate Latin American culture and innovation. In February 2025, FDLA featured designers such as Agatha Ruiz de la Prada from Spain, Yirko Sivirich from Peru, and Juan Carlos Collazo from Puerto Rico, among others. The event highlighted themes of sustainability, heritage, and innovation, reflecting FDLA’s commitment to promoting responsible fashion practices.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is at the core of FDLA’s philosophy. The organization encourages designers to adopt eco-friendly practices and materials in their collections. For instance, the “Tropical Metropolis 1613” collection, created by Angie Polanco and Albania Rosario, utilized organic cotton and vegan silk, produced using advanced eco-friendly technology. This initiative underscores FDLA’s dedication to environmental responsibility within the fashion industry.
Digital Transformation
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, FDLA embraced digital innovation. In 2020, the organization transitioned to online platforms, offering virtual showcases and digital content to maintain engagement with audiences. Additionally, FDLA launched “Marcas Latam,” an e-commerce platform enabling designers to sell their products directly from the runway, thereby expanding their market reach.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 by Albania Rosario |
| Headquarters | New York City, USA |
| Mission | To promote Latin American designers globally through fashion showcases |
| Key Events | New York Fashion Week (NYFW), shows in Milan, Dubai, South Korea, Switzerland |
| Notable Designers (2025) | Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Yirko Sivirich, Juan Carlos Collazo |
| Sustainability Focus | Eco-friendly materials (e.g., vegan silk, organic cotton), green technology |
| Signature Collection | “Tropical Metropolis 1613” by Angie Polanco and Albania Rosario |
| Digital Shift | Online shows post-2020, launched Marcas Latam e-commerce platform |
| Core Values | Diversity, cultural heritage, innovation, sustainability |
| Global Impact | Raised Latinx visibility in international fashion arenas |
FDLA continues to be a vital catalyst for Latin American fashion, providing designers with the tools and platforms needed to succeed in the global market. Through its commitment to diversity, sustainability, and innovation, FDLA not only elevates Latin American fashion but also enriches the global fashion landscape. As the organization moves forward, it remains dedicated to its mission of fostering talent, promoting cultural heritage, and shaping the future of fashion.