My latest fashion design creation is especially meaningful because it began as a gift from my niece Francesca Maria DiMarco. She sourced a pure Italian painted silk from Prime Fabrics in New York City and surprised me with it. That gesture launched the project and inspired me to design a piece where her gift became the heart of the story.

To bring balance to the bold print, I consulted with a fabric buyer at New York City–based Mood Fabrics and selected a luxurious silk charmeuse for the base of the dress. Charmeuse has a smooth, fluid quality that drapes beautifully and reflects light with a gentle glow. The combination of the vibrant Italian silk print with the soft luster of the charmeuse created both harmony and contrast within the design.

I then reached out to M & S Schmalberg in New York City to create a rose from my fabrics that would unify the two silks. They crafted a handmade flower that combined the structure of the print with the fluidity of the charmeuse, creating a symbolic accent that brings the story of both fabrics together.

Using my background in draping, flat pattern work, and couture construction, I engineered the dress so that its parts move gracefully with the body while staying perfectly in place. The printed shawl, the flowing tie, and the waist sash were all designed to shift with motion yet remain secure, creating elegance in both form and function.

This piece represents not only a collaboration with outstanding fashion houses but also the joy of working with a gift from someone I love. Francesca’s thoughtful gesture made the creation especially personal, and because it was made to be worn at my nephew Paul DiMarco and his bride Misty McGowen’s wedding, it will always carry that cherished connection.

For inspiration and materials, explore these: