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Since debuting her namesake label during New York Fashion Week in 2014 at Radio City Music Hall, Cristina Ottaviano has excelled in creating ultra-feminine collections of women’s evening and ready-to-wear for everyone from NYC socialites to Hollywood celebrities. From her inspiration for her Fall Winter 2017 collection to how she sees her brand expanding and more, we catch up with the designer.
Cristina, why did you decide to launch your own label?
I had been doing quite a bit of custom work and as the demand grew I decided to put a collection together so that my clients had a variety of looks to choose from.
Which brands did you work at leading up to this?
I interned for Oscar de la Renta and Marc Jacobs, which were incredible experiences, and I worked on the design team at Marchesa before launching my own collection.
How do you describe your design aesthetic?
My design aesthetic is ultra-feminine, classic with a modern twist. Construction, fit, and ease of wear are extremely important to me.
What’s your inspiration for Fall/Winter 2017?
Our Fall/Winter 2017 collection was inspired by the Hollywood glamour of the 1940s.
Lots of women come to you for occasion dresses. What’s your favorite occasion to design for?
All celebratory occasions! It brings me so much joy to be involved in a special day for a client. As a designer, there is no better feeling than knowing you have helped someone look and feel their best!
Why did you decide to keep your line NY-made?
I’m a native New Yorker! I also studied fashion design here. I love the garment district and the energy of our city. I want to do my part to keep it going!
Who are your muses?
Strong, independent, beautiful women!
How do you see your brand expanding?
We’ve been doing a lot of custom bridal work and hope to offer full bridal collections in the future.
We’ve been doing a lot of custom bridal work and hope to offer full bridal collections in the future.
Where is your line sold?
Our collections are sold at specialty stores domestically and internationally, and also online at Moda Operandi.
