LEIGHTON WHITTINGTON
Leighton W. Couture “Je Suis Une Femme” By: Susie LaFredo Credits: Marc Arevalo – Photography, Models – Shelby Turnage and Jennifer Larsen
Leighton Whittington was born in San Angelo, Texas to Glen Owen Whittington and Rhonda Tafolla. He and his family have deep Texas roots and are considered Historical Royalty of sorts. Tafolla Middle School is named for his Great Grandfather and is also the man who introduced Spanish language classes to our public school system. Also, his 3x Great Grandfather’s Journals are featured in the collection of The Institute of Texas Cultures and now Leighton is implanting his name into the history of our city through his beautiful designs of Leighton W. Couture. Leighton has always had a natural entrepreneurial spirit, but his flair for the creative drew him first towards modeling. His first runway event was with Seventeen Magazine, then Vogue and even later with Dolce & Gabbana. All the while he was also a professional ballet dancer which brought him to New York and Los Angeles. It was while he was in San Antonio performing in the musical “A Chorus Line” that he met Fashion Photographer Marc Arevalo. The two developed both a personal connection as well as a creative connection. 15 years later, Arevalo is still at his side helping breathe life into his designs through the lens of the camera. Leighton’s new collection is completely inspired by France, its History, Icons and of course its Fashion. His pallet consists of Ivory, Poppy, Red, Deep Blue along with accents of gold and silver. In fact, 90% of the materials have been privately created and customized in Paris at one of the oldest manufacturers in the industry. It will feature 20 or more pieces ranging from casual street wear to day and café wear to bridal and evening wear. It is being shown as a journey through a young women’s life. From her young single years, then dating, falling in love and finally getting married. His collection is beautiful and soft yet powerful. Again, as before, this collection is made by hand and is all made to order for clients. With a price point covering a wide range in this collection, from a $40 T-shirt all the way to a $10,000 jacket there is something for everyone in the “Je Suis Une Femme” Collection.
Model - Shelby Turnage
Model - Shelby Turnage