Interview with Visionary Fashion Designer Coral Castillo
By Marquez Rodriguez
With a reputation simultaneously echoing innovation and sustainability, Coral Castillo has left an incredible mark on the fashion industry. Although she lacked formal training, Coral, without hesitation, began designing for clientele in 2005. Her exceptional abilities and determination led her to pursue a degree in Fashion Design from The Art Institute of California - San Francisco. While studying for her degree, she honed her craft and eventually developed her unique and compelling style. Coral's distinctive style is characterized by a seamless blend of strength and softness; behind each of Coral’s designs are a source of empowerment for women, evoking a sense of confidence and grace.
Fashion Design by Coral Castillo, Photography by Arun Nevader. Modeling by Veronica Khas
Coral’s mother’s designs ignited her passion and inspiration at a young age. “Witnessing the magical transformation of a simple piece of fabric into a beautiful dress, and seeing the joy on a woman's face as she slipped into it, deeply inspired me. I yearned to create that same sense of wonder and confidence. My mother's craftsmanship and artistry served as a constant reminder of the power of fashion to uplift and transform. It was her influence that ultimately guided me towards pursuing a career in this creative field.” says Coral. She also describes how she has tremendous support from her mother, son, and boyfriend. “Their unwavering love, encouragement, and belief in me have been the foundation upon which my achievements stand today.”
Coral Castillo’s stunning portfolio has earned her numerous prestigious awards and accolades, including the Moss Adams Fashion Innovator Award in 2019. She has conquered renowned fashion series STITCHED as the victorious designer of Episode 5, and even made her mark as a finalist on PROJECT RUNWAY Season 19. Coral’s unique creations have graced the pages of top fashion publications worldwide, from Elle US to VOGUE Italy, UK, Mexico, Turkey, and more. However, Coral is much more than simply a fashion designer; she is an artist at heart, with a profound love for macrame craftsmanship. Championing responsible fashion practices, she places environmental well-being at the core of her designs, delivering a powerful message to the rest of the fashion world about consciousness and empowerment.
Fashion Design by Coral Castillo, Photography by Arun Nevader, Modeling by April Tiberc
While focusing on Coral’s intricate creations, the first thing one will notice is her unique use of macrame, a technique requiring the crafting of textile with the use of knots to form shapes. Black is her preferred color to work with, as she describes “it possesses a timeless and classic quality that exudes an air of mystery. Moreover, black has the remarkable ability to create a slenderizing effect, making it a universally flattering choice. Regardless of the era or fashion trends, black never fails to make a striking statement. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it a color that transcends time and always remains in vogue.” Yet, daring to color outside the lines, Coral has found boldness in vibrant shades, like the radiant glow of bright yellow. The color has been beneficial to Coral; she made a bold decision on an episode of Project Runway S19 during a challenge to use the brilliant shade. “This hue had rarely found its way into my designs before, but driven by the determination to make a lasting impression, I took a leap of faith. The experience was exhilarating, as I saw the transformation of my creation unfold.” During this project, Coral had an eye opening experience regarding the immense power of color and used it to enhanced her style and aesthetic.
Coral describes her biggest career milestones as features in Vogue and Elle Magazine. Having these accomplishments are a not only a testament to her dedication, but to her creative vision. Not only did these publications validate Coral as a fashion designer, but it has opened up a variety of doors and opportunities in the fashion industry. Coral has made many new connections and has further established herself in the fashion world where she knows she can make a difference. “While being published in Vogue and Elle stands as a significant achievement, I am continually motivated to push the boundaries of my creativity and strive for even greater accomplishments. It serves as a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to my craft, I can continue to make a lasting impact in the fashion industry,” says Coral.
Fashion Design by Coral Castillo, Photography by Arun Nevader, Modeling by Amelia Allen
“If I were to envision my dream collaboration, it would undoubtedly be with the legendary fashion house, Versace. The allure and creativity that emanate from Versace's designs have always captivated me, making them the perfect partner for a collaborative endeavor.” Coral states that a collaboration with Versace would be a “harmonious infusion.” With Versace’s iconic and bold aesthetic and Coral's artistic vision, they could create something the world has never seen before. “Together, we could create a collection that marries boldness, glamour, and innovation, pushing the boundaries of fashion in daring and unexpected ways,” says Coral. Her biggest goal with this project would be to prioritize the future of the fashion industry and create beautiful and meaningful art. “This dream collaboration would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the fashion industry, inspiring others to embrace creativity, individuality, and the endless possibilities that lie within the realm of fashion.”
Coral's advice to aspiring artists is “to wholeheartedly embrace hard work and perseverance. The art industry is known for its immense competitiveness, and achieving success often hinges on the willingness to go the extra mile. Dedicate yourself to honing your craft, continually pushing the boundaries of your creativity, and staying attuned to the latest trends and developments within the art world. It is essential to be prepared for setbacks and rejection, as they are natural and unavoidable parts of the journey. Instead of allowing these experiences to break your spirit, view them as opportunities for learning and personal growth. Stay true to your artistic vision, unwaveringly believing in yourself and your unique talent. Remember, it is through unwavering determination and resilience that you can leave a lasting impact in the realm of art.”
As Coral Castillo’s career and her passion for sustainable clothing continue to change the world, you will be sure to see more amazing work in the near future, especially with new additions to her collection of macrame accessories.
