Sunday, December 30, 2012

Off the Runway: Simone Rodrigues of Sisa Designs


VIVE Katerin met with Simone Rodrigues - founder and designer of Sisa Designs. Simone's designs have gained a strong following among celebrities in her native Brazil and in New York and Hollywood alike.  Yet, the success has not gone to Simone's head. Rather she remains well grounded, accessible and down to earth.  Unlike other a-list fashion designers, Rodrigues doesn't maintain a NYC headquarters.  Instead, Sisa Designs is based in a boutique storefront in Union, NJ.  This location was chosen so Simone could remain close to home to maintain some semblance of a work/life balance.

Rodrigues did not lead a privileged childhood and had to work hard for many years to pursue her dream of becoming a fashion designer.  Through it all, she never stopped following her passion - working on sketches and designs late at night after working all day and balancing the responsibilities of raising two children.  Simone has not forgotten where she came from. She works with local children and teens (known as her Little Divas) interested in fashion design and modeling and mentors them and provides hands on experience.

Sisa Designs is known for bold couture designs as well as colorful ready-to-wear collections. Simone can easily switch between designing a flowing gown and a beach-ready bikini, with unique accessories and hats thrown into the mix.  Her designs are influenced by nature and Simone is conscientious about the use of ethically sourced materials.




Watch the VIVE Katerin video interviews with Simone to learn more about her and Sisa Designs.  This two part video series shares some emotional moments that shows a side of Rodrigues that many may not have seen before.  Simone is truly an inspiring and successful woman.



For more information visit www.sisadesigns.com

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