2024 DESIGNERS
Ape Life Apparel
Founder: Jazmyne Polk
Apelife stands for "After Paper Everyday", and means to have thick skin, to show tenacity and persevere through any obstacle in your path. When you wear APE LIFE, you represent this ideology, you believe in enjoying the present and chasing your dreams everyday!
Social Media Handle: @apelifeapparel
Forever 21
Forever 21 is a multinational fast fashion retailer and popular emblem in the fashion world. For the last two years, they have been the featured retailer in the Fashion For Life shows. Fashion For Life is extremely proud to introduce Forever 21.
Social Media Handle: @forever21
Modern Man
Founder: Huseyin Yildiz
Modern Man is a Men's formalwear store with a great variety of selection. We sell suits, shoes, shirts, ties and other accessories.
Instagram: @modernmantexas
House of Donaldson
Founder: JC Donaldson
The House of Donaldson. Where we deliver confidence through custom luxury. From custom suits to everyday garments, achieving the perfect fit is one of the most important reasons to choose custom clothing. That’s why we offer a fit on all our custom clothing. If your garment requires alterations, our team will make the necessary adjustments until you are completely satisfied.
Social Media Handle: @houseofdonaldson
Ala Ancha Hat Co
Founder: Master Hatter Jorge "La Sombra"
From the vibrant rhythms of Puerto Rico to the intricate art of hat-making, Jorge, known in the world of millinery as La Sombra, crafts headwear that stands as a testament to his unique vision and heritage.
After dedicating 21 years and two tours of duty in Afghanistan, Jorge’s journey took a transformative turn toward his lifelong passion: fedoras and the rich world of hatting and millinery.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Pedro Navaja, a street figure immortalized in Latin American culture by Ruben Blades, La Sombra infuses each creation with a touch of intrigue and elegance. His wide-brimmed hats (sombreros de ala ancha), like all his creations, offer not just shade but a statement of individuality.
At Ala Ancha Hat Co. every hat is a masterpiece. From timeless classics to bespoke, one-of-a-kind designs, La Sombra's hats are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to the customer's vision. His creations transcend fleeting trends, embodying a blend of traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde innovation.
Wearing an Ala Ancha hat is more than an accessory; it’s a journey into the shadows of unparalleled style and personal expression.
Social Media Handle: @ala_ancha_hat_co
Rock Paper Denim
Founder: Matthew Smith III
Matthew Smith III, Real Estate Professional, and Fashion Designer. Matthew, also served his country while in the U.S. Navy and the (FMF) Fleet Marine Force with the United States Marine Corps as a combat medic for 8 years. He received an Honorable discharge after serving.
Matthew, is the Founder of Fashion For Life, a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting domestic violence. He, and his organization have partnered with the P.E.A.C.E. Initiative in the
fight against domestic violence. Matthew is also a professional model and actor.
As a model, he has been featured in the Taylor’d for you fashion show; the IDMF—Interior Design Meets Fashion; the Mayor’s Ball fashion show and many more. He has been featured in several
commercials and a recent movie, entitled “Top Five Weekend”. Most recent, he is feature in a commercial for American Airlines He is also the owner of Rock, Paper, Denim by Matthew Smith III, an online boutique for men and women. Fashion has always been a part of the
Matthew Smith brand. He was always the best dressed in high school, and always wore unique clothing that impressed his peers and colleagues. Matthew, fell in love with fashion, because fashion is centered in the human expression of style and class. He rarely follows the considered fashion trends. He considers himself a trend-setter. The beginning of his fashion journey is constantly
evolving, which means every time he creates a new collection, this marks a new beginning.
Social Media Handle: @rockpaperdenimbyms3
Looks by Limatus
Lead Designer: Tessa Moss
Limatus Bespoke is an experience-based custom clothier based in San Antonio, Texas with locations now in Raleigh, North Carolina and the Rio Grande Valley, Texas.
At Limatus Bespoke, you choose the fabric, fit, and design of your suit, shirt, pants, jackets, coats, or skirts. Our clothes are hand-measured and tailored to fit your body perfectly. Come in and enjoy a relaxed collaborative environment. With each private appointment, our designers work with you to discover your style and create clothing that speaks to your personality.
Social Media Handle: @limatusbespoke