As a Designer

I'm Adriana from Central Jersey (yes, it does exist) and I'm an aspiring fashion designer. I'm currently studying Fashion Design & Merchandising at Brookdale Community College in NJ and will be graduating in May with my associate's degree. I'm transferring to Montclair State University in the fall to finish my bachelor's degree.

I've loved fashion since I was a child reading magazines, dressing my dolls, and even putting on my own mini fashion shows. As the eldest daughter of immigrant parents, I'm always keeping myself busy using the opportunities I've been given by them to make them proud. I've designed and modeled for multiple fashion shows and I'm currently working on three looks for Brookdale's Fashion Show, Melomania on May 5, 2026.

Never Fitting

Growing up loving fashion, I always found that something was lacking. Going shopping became something I hated because nothing ever seemed to fit. Seeing all the same models and mannequins; thin, skinny tall women when I didn't fit in that category. Why don't the bigger girls get the same clothes as the skinny girls do? I always complained about it, but I got sick of complaining.

That's when I started researching and got into sewing classes. I figured the best way to change the industry is within the industry. With all that I've learned so far, it is possible to make bigger sizes. It's possible to create them into beautiful garments. There's no excuse. And that's what I plan on doing. Creating or working as a designer for a fashion brand that caters to all body types. I never want a woman to go shopping and hate their body for it. Because clothes are meant to fit you, not the other way around.