STRUT Spring-Summer 2026

STRUT FROM CUBA TO AMERICA

traces the inspiring journey of George Feldenkreis, and how he built a lasting legacy. Presented in an exclusive documentary screening at STU

DEAN TARLIKA NÚÑEZ-NAVARRO And Fashion and Law students take over the STU’s courtroom in a bold editorial titled “The Verdict: This Is Fashion”

GENESIS: A NEW CREATION BEGINS

Step into the 2026 Fashion, Food & Wine Showcase where innovation takes form

BIG APPLE, BIGGER THE FASHION This Spring 2026 semester, the Fashion Program traveled to New York City twice. Exploring key fashion landmarks and industry spaces across the city

Photography by Gerasim Gerasimov

THE EDITOR’S L E T T E R This edition made me reflect on who we are, not just as a team, but as a community. At the beginning of the semester, we had the privilege of hosting the Feldenkreis family on our campus for the screening of their father’s documentary. That moment stayed with me. It reminded me of the power of hard work and dedication, of what we’re willing to let go of in order to grow, and how, when we come together, we can create something truly meaningful.

No matter where we come from, how we look, or how we speak, we are united by a shared passion and purpose.

With every year that passes, every Fashion, Food and Wine showcase we produce, and every edition we bring to life, we are growing and navigating new challenges. We do it with new friends, with old friends, but most importantly, we do it together.

This edition gave me the chance to pause and truly see what we have built as a program. And I couldn’t be prouder to be part of it.

Lucia Battistel Editorial Director

Jimena Kunigami Art Director

Ashlee Rzyczycki Editorial Supervisor

1

Maria Jose Velasquez Editor In Chief

Giovanna Calabrese Creative Director

Oriana Calcano Layout Supervisor

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CONTRIBUTORS Maya Williams Model Maximo Guidali Model Maeva Roguet Model Maria Ferreira Model Mafer Sosa Model Stephany Banegas Model Dean Tarlika Núñez-Navarro Model Antonio DeJesus Photographer Gerasim Gerasimov Photographer Isabella Peña Design Editor Rood Lindor Design Editor/Model Olivia Meyer-Massey Design Editor Aaron Federico Design Editor Mya Salazar Editorial Assitant

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STRUT SPRING 2026

1 Editor’s Letter 2 Contributor

27 From Drive-Thru to Runway Iñaki Lopez

3 Content Page

29 What’s Your Personality?

4 Revamping Trends F/W 2026

30 The Future of Fashion is Local Yesenia Urena

11 Big Apple, Bigger Fashion Inside New York’s Fashion Industry

31 From Cuba To America A story that resonates beyond borders

16 Dana Martinez A fabulous freshmen

34 FASHION X LAW

19 Ashley Stambouli 3

23 Fahion, Food & Wine Showcase 2026

REVAMPING 4

CHROMATIC

®

Vision

Spring/Summer 2026 For Spring/Summer 2026, colors express individuality — a balance of freshness and bold energy. Think Cloud Dancer and Lavender for lightness, paired with Solar Orange and Mango Mint for optimism.

Electric Blue, Electric Fuchsia, and Vibrant Red add intensity, while Teal and Mint bring calm. Each shade tells a story, shaping a fashion outlook that feels fresh, dynamic, and personal.

5

PANTONE

PANTONE

PANTONE

Cloud Dancer

Solar Orange

Teal

C H R O M AT I C

PANTONE

PANTONE

PANTONE

Mint

Lavender

Vibrant Red

PA L E T T E PANTONE

PANTONE

Electric Fuchsia

Electric Blue

PANTONE Sunshine Yellow 6

DIOR SS26

Statement mules

This Spring/Summer statement mules will be everywhere, defined by bold silhouettes, sculptural heels and eyecatching details that will elevate any look.

Scarves are also making a strong comeback this season, reimagined as versatile styling pice that adds personality to any outfit

Acne Studios

R ic k ns Owe

Jimmy Choo

ves car

DIOR

S

WGSN

G

uc

ci

Vogue Scandinavia

ACCE SSORIES Auralee

7

Colville Miu Miu

ling b w o a B

g

It’s offcial, bowling bags make a comeback, bringing with them a nostalgic nod to the iconic Pan Am era with structured silhouettes and timeless, travelinspired elegance.

Handmade jewelry also stands out this season, featuring natural stones, organic shapes, and expressive details that give each piece a unique, personal character

Melt, Miu Miu

Ju

lia

Sk er ge th

Handmade jewelry

8

Lace

FABRICS

Simkai

uy nb na ng J ia

9

Softly Padded

i

Aritzia

Bird in Bag

Yarn Filet Crochet

-KD NA

Pela

a Se

Softly padded fabric pieces have to be in your closet this season, bringing volume and comfort; they balance any outfit’s structure with an effortless, cushioned effect. Yarn filet crochet also emerges as a key texture, offering handcrafted detail and airy, intricate patterns that highlight the return of artisanal craftsmanship.

Lace also takes center stage this season with a romantic feel that adds softness and elegance to more modern silhouettes.

B o tte g

g n i r o l ia

a Vene

c e t t i u h r c al t r A

ta

Lo

ew

e

Saint Laurent

Jacquemouse

Volume

Volume defines the season’s silhouettes, with maxi tent dresses leading the way through their effortless but dramatic movement.

Architectural tailoring also stands out, bringing structure, precision, and sculptural lines that contrast with soft volume and redefine modern dressing.

Maxi tent dress

Zimmerman

S I L H O U E T T E S

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Our New York City field trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about stepping inside the heart of the fashion industry.

Over a few packed days, we met designers, stylists, costume experts, and textile innovators who revealed what truly happens behind the scenes. This was STU Fashion’s second trip to NYC this year.

Step inside an immersive journey through New York City, where, even in the most exclusive spaces where photography wasn’t permitted, every effort was made to capture and share the essence of an unforgettable experience.

BIG APPLE, BIGGER FASHION Inside New York’s Fashion Industry

11 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

Photography by Antonio de Jesus

INDUSTRY INSIGHT AT

COTTON INC.

FIRST STOP

THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION

Back in January, some of our students attended the NRF Student Program and the NRF Big Show, where we experienced the highest level of the global retail industry, surrounded by executives, major brands, and groundbreaking innovation shaping the future of commerce.

But while NRF showed us the power and scale of the business side of fashion, this field trip brought us closer to its creative core. It allowed us to step into studios, ateliers, and showrooms, connecting directly with the people, processes, and craftsmanship that turn ideas into reality.

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

One of our first visits was to Cotton Incorporated, where we learned that the company goes beyond the fabric itself. While the majority of what they produce revolves around textiles, they don’t “put all their eggs in one basket”, they’re also involved in unexpected product categories like wipes and other cotton-based goods.

What stood out most was how strategic and global their approach is. Their team researches not only fashion trends, but also psychology, economics, and even music, analyzing what people are spending money on and why. They travel to places like Australia and across Asia to study denim trends and observe how people are dressing.

During our visit, they walked us through their detailed trend reports, covering color palettes, fabrics, textures, and overall vibes. Their digital team even creates visual representations of how trends may look in real life. Then, they take these presentations around the world, meeting with brands and decision-makers, acting as the ultimate fashion consultants.

Photography by Antonio de Jesus

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

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COSTUME DESIGN FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN WITH

LAURA FRECON

Laura Frecon, costume designer for Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and Inventing Anna, begins her process by studying the script to understand the story’s mood and emotional tone.

She also manages budgeting by calculating costs per episode and getting producer approval.

Productions usually purchase costumes rather than borrow them to avoid damage or delays during filming.

After production, costumes from major shows like Queen Charlotte are archived, exhibited, saved for future seasons, donated, or kept for other projects.

Netflix

ART BEYOND FASHION WITH

REBECCA MOSES AT RALPH PUCCI

Danielle Frankel

COUTURE AND CRAFT WITH

DANIELLE FRANKEL

Stepping into Danielle Frankel’s studio was like stepping into modern bridal couture. Known for her effortlessly elegant designs, her team spoke to us about building a brand that redefines what bridalwear can look like.

The team shared details about her collaboration with Birkenstock, a surprising yet refreshing fusion of couture and comfort.

One of the most fascinating details was learning that some of her gowns are made in the south of France and hand-painted, making each piece completely unique. It reminded us that couture is not just clothing, it’s art.

At the Ralph Pucci store, we met Rebecca Moses, whose work extends far beyond traditional fashion design.

Surrounded by the Ralph Pucci collection, we listened as she explained how art, fashion, and interiors constantly influence each other. Her perspective made it clear that creativity doesn’t belong to just one discipline. Whether designing garments or conceptualizing interior spaces, her approach is rooted in storytelling and emotion.

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Danielle Frankel

THE POETRY OF FEATHERS WITH

ERIC CHARLESDONATIEN

STYLING HISTORY WITH

FREDDIE LEIBA

Harper’s Bazaar 1980

On day two we attended an exhibition to honor the iconic fashion stylist Freddie Leiba, whose work has shaped iconic imagery in fashion photography. Seeing an exhibition of his most important projects, and the major names he has worked with, helped us understand the power of styling. It’s not just about clothes; it’s about constructing an entire narrative.

The idea that he worked with major celebrities and big editorial names, and the powerful images he captured was extremely inspirational but the conversation also highlighted the critical role of fashion’s business, and how creativity must be balanced with a focus on profitability, his work for Macy’s is a clear example of going from a very creative point of view to a more realistic one.

The biggest lesson we learned about Leiba is that no matter where you come from, how you look or even how you sound, you can get as far as you want in life.

The last day in The Big Apple, we met Eric Charles-Donatien, a French feather-craft designer whose career is deeply rooted in gratitude and mentorship. He explained how staying open to learning led him to collaborate with legendary figures such as Karl Lagerfeld. One of his most memorable creations was an iconic feather dress designed in 2000 for Jean Paul Gaultier, a piece that showcased the exceptional craftsmanship behind haute couture. He emphasized that feathers, though light and delicate, demand immense technical skill, precision, and patience, reflecting the dedication required to preserve and reinvent traditional artisanal techniques.

Charles-Donatien also addressed the current crisis in couture, explaining that fewer people are willing to pay for its true value, which puts this art form at risk. At the same time, he acknowledged brands like Zara for making fashion trends more accessible to a wider audience.

Ultimately, he left us with a powerful message: the fashion industry is not always what it seems, and growth often requires adaptation, resilience, and evolving, even through challenges that may not always feel ideal.

Eric Charles-Donatien

Roger Vivier

Eric Charles-Donatien

14 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

t ’ n d i d k r o Y s u w Ne show howed s t s t I u j . y n r o t i s h u s d fa he in t s u ind it. beh

What made this trip unforgettable wasn’t just the big names, it was understanding the depth of work behind every garment.

From global textile research and trend forecasting to couture bridal artistry, costume archives, and feather craftsmanship, we saw that fashion is a world built on strategy, collaboration, emotion, and detail.

15 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

DANA MARTINEZ A FABULOUS FRESHMEN

Photography by Jimena Kunigami Styling by Giovanna Calabrese

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About Dana Dana’s love for fashion began during her childhood, draping fabric over her dolls and experimenting with design at an early age. At 13, she rescued a lace shirt her mother was throwing away and hand-sewed it onto a corset, her first real piece. That same year, during a trip to Colombia, her grandmother helped her try to transform it into a dress.

Throughout high school, Dana designed her own prom and homecoming dresses and even crafted a duct tape dress for a scholarship competition. While she initially saw herself pursuing art broadly, she soon realized fashion was wearable art, creative expression people could live in.

When applying to colleges, Dana briefly considered dentistry for stability, but her heart remained in design. After exploring her options Dana chose to stay in Miami and attend St. Thomas University. Once she was accepted, she felt certain she had found the right place to grow, refine her skills, and develop as a designer.

About Winning At the school’s Final Stitch Competition, where fashion students presented original skirt designs as the culmination of their Apparel Development course, Dana earned the award for Best Skirt.

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

Winning Best Skirt in Apparel Development was a deeply meaningful moment for Dana, especially because her parents were there to witness it.

Her father had traveled from Colombia despite not feeling well, and sharing that moment with them made the achievement about more than the award, it was about family.

17

Her winning skirt featured curved pleats and a wrapped boning detail, designed to appear wind-swept yet structured. Inspired by Yves Saint Laurent and artist Brad Kunkle, whose work often depicts women in nature, Dana blended strength and femininity into one cohesive piece.

Leadership & Involvement Being named Fashion MVP was both surprising and affirming. It showed Dana that her involvement and dedication had not gone unnoticed and made her proud to share the recognition with her family.

Her involvement in Fashion Society keeps her connected to both her peers and the larger fashion world. It builds community within the program and creates opportunities beyond the classroom.

Photography by Antonio de Jesus

As a work-study student, Dana also contributes behind the scenes. Whether completing small tasks or assisting with operations, she values understanding how the program functions from multiple perspectives.

Looking Ahead Moving forward, Dana hopes to help expand and strengthen the fashion program. She believes it has tremendous potential but needs greater visibility.

Having once struggled to discover the program herself, she wants to help attract more students while continuing to refine her craft and grow as a designer.

18 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

ASHLEY STAMBOULI 19

Photography by Antonio de Jesus

INTER VIEW STRUT: WHAT EARLY EXPERIENCES FIRST DREW YOU TO FASHION? Ashley: Growing up, I always liked fashion. My grandma used to sew, so my sister and I spent a lot of time at her house watching her work. I was always really immersed in that world.

At 11, I started making my own dresses with a sewing machine my mom bought me at Walmart. I learned by watching YouTube and made dresses for parties and events.

Everything was very experimental, but I loved it.

Looking back, I don’t know how those dresses didn’t fall apart — but they worked.

STRUT: WAS THERE A DEFINING MOMENT THAT LED YOU TO START YOUR OWN LABEL? Ashley: A key moment was my internship with Oscar Carvallo in Miami. It was my first real experience inside a workshop, seeing how everything actually works. That’s when I thought, “Okay, I can do this too.”

After that, I started from home, making custom pieces for friends and charging very little just to get started. Then I moved into a small workspace and focused on made-to-measure dresses for events.

After COVID, I began creating more structured collections, launched my website, and built an online presence. Now I want to focus more on readyto-wear because it allows me to grow and reach more people.

20 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

STRUT: WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE IN THE EARLY DAYS? Ashley: At the beginning, one of the biggest challenges was trying to do everything on my own. I wanted everything to be perfect, and it felt like I wasn’t making progress.

Over time, I learned to set boundaries, say no, and focus on what really aligns with my vision. That helped me grow in a more sustainable way, and now I have more support.

STRUT: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND IDENTITY? Ashley: For me, the brand is about being “made for the moment.” I don’t like to define it too much with words — it’s more about how each dress fits into a special moment in someone’s life. It should add to that moment without taking over, and make the experience feel unique.

STRUT: CAN YOU TAKE US THROUGH YOUR DESIGN PROCESS? Ashley: My process starts with sketching a lot of ideas. Then I filter them down until I’m left with the designs that really work.

Fabric selection is a key part — sometimes the entire design depends on the fabric.

After that, we create patterns and prototypes, and I go through a lot of trial and error. If I don’t like something, I change it — whether it’s the fabric, the fit, or the details, until it feels right.

If I’m not completely convinced by a design, I don’t move forward with it. I trust my intuition a lot.

STRUT: WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? Ashley: I get inspired by what’s happening right now, especially colors and silhouettes.

Sometimes it’s small details, like adding a strap or a belt, that make a design feel current without losing its essence.

STRUT: DID DESIGNING YOUR OWN WEDDING DRESS INFLUENCE YOUR WORK? Ashley: Designing my wedding dress was a very special experience, but also demanding. It gave me a deeper understanding of how important these moments are, especially for brides, and I think it changed how I approach designing for those occasions.

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STRUT: WHAT HAS BEEN A DEFINING MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER? Ashley: One of the most important moments for me was working on my first Met Gala project.

Everything happened very quickly — I had about three weeks, but it turned out amazing.

The reaction from people was incredible, and it really meant a lot to me. I focused on movement, volume, and creating something impactful, which is something I always love to do.

STRUT: HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED IN SUCH A FASTPACED INDUSTRY? Ashley: I try to stay true to my style while also evolving. I keep certain elements consistent, but I also incorporate small updates that make the designs feel more current.

STRUT: HOW WAS YOUR FIRST RUNWAY EXPERIENCE? Ashley: My first runway at St. Thomas University was amazing, but also intense. By the end, I had seen the dresses so many times that they didn’t feel as impactful to me, but seeing the audience’s reaction changed everything.

It was also interesting to see how the designs look different on models, the proportions and movement completely change. That’s something you don’t fully understand until you see it in real life. Seeing people connect with the designs was the best part. It honestly exceeded my expectations.

STRUT: HOW DOES YOUR VENEZUELAN HERITAGE INFLUENCE YOUR DESIGNS? Ashley: I think it comes more from the environment I grew up in. It’s very social - there are always events, parties, reasons to dress up. That definitely influenced how I think about fashion.

I also feel like Venezuelan women really embrace glamour and go all out, especially for special occasions. I love that energy, and it’s something that shows in my designs.

STRUT: HOW HAS MIAMI SHAPED YOUR BRAND? Ashley: Miami has a similar culture where people like to dress up, but I think my perspective is also shaped by the fact that my close circle is still very Venezuelan. That mindset of putting effort into how you look has stayed with me.

STRUT: WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST RIGHT NOW? Ashley: Right now, I’m really excited about expanding into wholesale. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, but I didn’t feel ready before. Now I’m starting to connect with retailers and grow the brand in that direction.

STRUT: WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? Ashley: I want to grow the brand and take it to a much bigger level. And in the future, I would love to dress Hailey Bieber — I feel like her style really aligns with the brand.

22 Photography by Jimena Kunigami

FASHION, FOOD & WINE SHOWCASE

20

23

26

Hannah F Michaels All photography by Antonio De Jesus

Ashley Stam bouli

The Power of Student Leadership This showcase is the perfect example of a project that is truly by students and for students. Every detail of the fashion show is managed by STU fashion students, who take on high-level responsibilities to bring the vision to life. From Sophia Téllez leading the makeup department to Oriana Calcano managing the intense backstage production, the students are the ones in charge. On the night of the event, students were everywhere, dressing models, overseeing fittings, running the setup, and ensuring every part of the production moved smoothly. A major highlight of the night featured 13 student designers who debuted unique pieces made entirely out of recycled materials from McDonald’s.

Their creativity didn't just look amazing on the runway; it also highlighted the importance of sustainability and innovation for young industry professionals.

STU Fashion, Food, and Wine Showcase: The ultimate by Students, For Students The St. Thomas University Fashion, Food, and Wine Showcase recently celebrated its signature annual event, and it was a true masterclass in student talent and teamwork. Held at the Gus Machado College of Business, this high-impact evening is much more than just a fashion show. It is a yearlong project where the fashion and culinary programs join forces to create a professional-level experience rooted in education and creativity.

MUST-SEE LOOKS FROM

THE SHOW

House Of Suits

Shantall Lacayo

Rood Lindor

Bululú Resort Wear

House O

f Suits

2026 Theme:

Ashley Stambouli

Genesis

This year’s theme was "Genesis: Every Creation Has a Beginning. " The show focused on origin stories, exploring how ideas, careers, and collaborations first start. To bring this theme to life, four incredible brands joined the showcase to present their latest collections. These included Shantall Lacayo, Bululú, House of Suits, and Ashley Stambouli. Guests experienced a dynamic runway presentation along with curated spaces that blended fashion, hospitality, 24 and storytelling.

25

Ashley Stambouli

Fashion

While the runway was a focal point, the event offered a full sensory experience including an elevated "Food Village" and interactive brand activations. The showcase brought together fashion and wine influencers, corporate sponsors, chefs, and business leaders in a setting designed to inspire connection and impact.

The influence of the night goes far beyond the glamour. The showcase is a major fundraiser where every penny gathered goes right back into the fashion program. These proceeds directly support student experiential learning, such as global education opportunities, study abroad programs, and professional visits. This year, the event even included a special scholarship awarded by McDonald’s to a deserving student.

Now in its 5th year, the showcase has become one of the biggest events the school offers every year. With over 600 guests in attendance and more than 1,000 hours of student-led work, this event proves that the next generation of STU industry leaders is already prepared to lead with integrity and a global perspective.

Ashley Stambouli

Shantall Lacayo

Bululú Resort Wear

Bululú Resort Wear

More Than Just

Shantall Lacayo

Deborah Benarroch

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FROM DRIVE-THRU

DRIVE-THRU

TO RUNWAY

IÑAKI LOPEZ DELIVERS THE WINNING LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S MCDCOUTURE COMPETITION.

27 Photography by Jimena Kunigami Photography

by Jimena Kunigami and Antonio De Jesus

AT THIS YEAR’S MCDCOUTURE SHOW, Iñaki’s winning design stood out not just for the final look, but for the journey, risks, and growth behind it.

Just two weeks before, he doubted himself, like many merchandising students entering design for the first time. But that doubt disappeared the moment he won.

When his name was called, he reflected on how far he had come and thought of his parents, whose support made the ….victory feel shared.

Mc Donald’s Corporation

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

His design told a story of transformation, inspired by McDonald's early 1970s uniforms.

Starting with blue tones, he evolved the look into the iconic red and yellow, creating a timeline that connected past and present.

The process was spontaneous and constantly changing, even leading to a last-minute decision to eat fries on the runway, adding a playful, on-brand touch.

Seeing his design on a professional model made the experience feel real, but more importantly, it changed how he sees his future.

What began as a challenge became a turning point, inspiring him to explore design further and stay open to new opportunities.

28 Photography: Antonio De Jesus

WHAT’S YOUR FASHION PERSONALITY ?

Start Here

When you get dressed, do you think of your outfit as a way to express who you are?

Yes

No

Yes

Would you wear something bold even if you knew people might stare?

No

Is comfort your top priority when choosing what to wear?

Yes

Does your closet mostly consist of neutral colors and basics?

Yes

Do you prefer balancing trends with classic, timeless pieces?

Yes

No

No

Yes

Do you enjoy experimenting with trends before everyone else does?

Do you like looking put-together without putting in too much effort?

Yes No

Do you usually plan your outfits in advance for events or outings?

Yes

Would you rather rewear a favorite outfit than risk a fashion fail?

Yes

No

Would you wear something bold just to make an impact?

No

No

Do you often shop for statement pieces rather than basics?

No

Do you feel most confident when your outfit feels “like you”?

Yes

Yes No

Yes

THE TRENDSETTER

THE EFFORTLESS STYLISH

THE COMFORTFIRST MINIMALIST

You see fashion as a statement, not just something to wear. You’re naturally drawn to bold silhouettes, unexpected combinations, and pieces that spark conversation. Trends don’t intimidate you; you enjoy being ahead of them, remixing them, or even setting your own.

You’re confident about taking risks, whether it’s a striking color, an experimental cut, or a look that turns heads when you walk into a room. Your style is expressive, creative, and fearless. People may not always dress like you, but they definitely notice you, and often take inspiration from you.

Your vibe: fashion-forward, daring, expressive You dress for: impact and individuality

Your style feels natural, polished, and intentional, even when you claim you “just threw something on.”

You understand balance: mixing trendy elements with timeless staples, and knowing when less is more.

You care about looking put-together, but you don’t chase trends blindly. Instead, you choose what actually works for your lifestyle and personality. Your outfits feel appropriate, stylish, and easy, making you someone others trust for fashion advice.

For you, fashion is about feeling good before anything else. Comfort, fit, and authenticity matter more than labels or trends. Your wardrobe is built around pieces you truly love, items that feel like an extension of who you are.

You’re not interested in overthinking outfits or constantly buying new things.

Instead, you value simplicity, repeat outfits proudly, and prioritize ease. Your style may be subtle, but it’s grounded, confident, and real.

Your vibe: refined, modern, confident You dress for: balance and versatility

Your vibe: relaxed, authentic, grounded You dress for: ease and self-assurance

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THE FUTURE OF FASHION IS LOCAL

YESENIA URENA Source: Arnoldo Robert, Getty Images

MAKING HISTORY FOR ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

Fashion Design student Yesenia Urena secured a prestigious win in the 2026 Fashion Scholarship Fund case study competition.

Inspired by her roots, this Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF) Scholar turned a personal story into an award-winning project.

Her collaboration between Bottega Veneta and Damasca, Costa Rica stood out for its strong focus on sustainability and meaning.

Growing up in Costa Rica, she watched her father farm pejibaye, a tropical fruit native to the region. That memory later became the foundation of her idea: transforming the fruit’s peel into a textile fiber. It was a way to combine innovation with her background and values. Her focus on sustainability helped her project stand out, especially as the fashion industry continues to shift toward more environmentally responsible practices. At the same time, she put a lot of effort into researching both brands, making sure the collaboration felt authentic and well thought out.

Source: Fashion Scholarship Fund

Winning the FSF scholarship came as a surprise, especially during a time when she was facing financial challenges. “It felt like a blessing,” she shares, since it allowed her to continue and finish her studies.

Through FSF, she was also able to attend the gala that took place in NYC, connect with industry professionals, and gain mentorship that continues to guide her career.

Looking back, she encourages other students to apply, trust the process, and believe in their ideas. Her story shows how personal experiences can turn into something impactful, and how sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand in shaping the future of fashion.

30 Arnoldo Robert, Getty Images

Photography by Jimena Kunigami

Miami Jewish Film Festival, 2026

FROM CUBA

Miami Jewish Film Festival, 2026

TO

From Cuba to Amercia, 2026

AMERICA

From Cuba to Amercia, 2026 31

A STORY THAT RESONATES BEYOND BORDERS From Cuba to Amercia, 2026

There are names in fashion you learn through textbooks, runways, and history—names that carry weight long before you ever encounter them in person. For me, George Feldenkreis was one of those names.

Not being from Miami, I arrived with an understanding of fashion rooted in global perspective rather than local legacy. I knew the brand. I knew the influence. Perry Ellis International was synonymous with innovation, accessibility, and American fashion evolution. But what I did not yet understand was how deeply one man’s story was woven into the very fabric of Miami’s fashion identity.

In Miami,

University of Miami

LEGACY, REWRITTEN: FROM HAVANA TO MIAMI

Photography: Antonio De Jesus

George Feldenkreis is not just a name —it is a presence.

In February 2024, that legacy came full circle.

George visited St. Thomas University to share his journey —not as a headline, but as a human story. A Jewish Cuban immigrant who came to the United States in search of opportunity, his narrative felt deeply familiar.

It echoed the lived experiences of so many of our students, who, like him, arrive with ambition, resilience, and the hope of something more.

And in that moment, his story became ours.

St. Thomas University itself was born in Havana as Santo Tomás de Villanueva, later reestablished in Miami as Biscayne College St. Thomas University

in 1963—a university forced to begin again, rooted in the same pursuit of opportunity that defined George’s journey.

Vogue, 1980

So when I was given the opportunity to meet with him one-on-one, I expected formality. Distance. The kind of guarded interaction one imagines when sitting across from the CEO of a global fashion company.

Instead, I encountered something entirely different.

This was not coincidence.

This was alignment.

But legacy does not end with one individual—it evolves.

Through George, I was introduced to his daughter, Fanny Hanono. And it is here that the story deepens.

Fanny is not simply a continuation of her father’s legacy—she is its living expression.

There is a

Humility.

Warmth. An openness that was as disarming as it was inspiring.

It is rare to meet someone whose legacy precedes them so profoundly, yet who carries it so lightly.

Photography: Antonio De Jesus

quiet strength in her presence, a humility that mirrors his, and a steadfast dedication to faith, family, and purpose. In her, you see not just inheritance, but 32 intention.

Miami Jewish Film Festival, 2026

It is one thing to build something.

It is another to fight for it when everything is at stake.

Photography: Antonio De Jesus

Through our connection, and in collaboration with Dr. Hagai Gringarten, we were entrusted with something extraordinary: the opportunity to bring George Feldenkreis’s story to life on our campus through a documentary.

St. Thomas University became the first to host its screening.

The film, directed by Jerry Levine,

is not just a biography—it is an emotional landscape. It is love. It is laughter. It is loss. It is perseverance.

And perhaps most strikingly, it is resilience.

Photography: Antonio De Jesus From Cuba to America Documentary, 2026

That kind of resolve does not simply inspire—it transforms.

As I sat there, surrounded by students, I could not help but wonder what they were feeling. I hoped they saw themselves in his journey. I hoped they understood that success is not linear, that setbacks do not define you, and that legacy is not given—it is earned, protected, and sometimes reclaimed.

What struck me most, however, was not just the story itself, but the way it was held by those around him.

These are not things that can be manufactured. They are built over time, through character, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to others.

I am humbled to have met George Feldenkreis.

Grateful to have collaborated, even in small ways, with someone whose impact is immeasurable.

And deeply honored that our students were given the opportunity to witness his story.

Because what he leaves behind is more than a brand.

It is more than a company.

It is a legacy of resilience, of leadership, and of possibility.

And through Fanny, his son Oscar, his family, and the countless lives he has impacted, that legacy lives on.

To witness the story of a man who was once outed

WWD, 2018

from his own company through a hostile takeover—and then, in his eighties, fought to reclaim it alongside his family—was nothing short of profound.

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WWD, 2017

The admiration of his family.

The loyalty of his employees.

The respect of the Jewish community.

Ashlee Rzycky

Photography: Antonio De Jesus

THE VERDICT: THIS IS FASHION For this edition, we put fashion on trial, literally.

In collaboration with the law program, our editorial transforms the courtroom into a runway. Inspired by the idea that both fashion and law are built on expression, identity, and interpretation, proving to us that these two worlds that have more in common than you think.

Photography by Gerasim Gerasimov

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35 Photography by Gerasim Gerasimov

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Photography by Gerasim Gerasimov 37

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Burgundy Zip Up

Bobcats Mocha Hat

Fanny Pack

Women’s Polo

Felt Set

n’s die e om Hoo W e Blu

SELECTED BY STUDENTS. WORN WITH PURPOSE. Burgundy Felt Vest

Square Sunglasses

White Button Down

Blue Rugby Polo

Gray Zip Up Jacket

Mini Purse Bag Charm + Bobcat Bag Charm

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Rugby Polo

Photography by Antonio De Jesus Get directly at our Fashion Retail Innovation Studio on campus

M CL A O

O COAS T

OOM SR S

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T

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FROM CLASSROOM CONCEPT

TO REAL-WORLD RETAIL

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The STU

STATEMENT STATEMENT PIECES PIECES

1

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