INTERVIEW: NYFW Designer Rolando Santana

Rolando Santana grew up in Mexico watching his mother piece together fabrics at her small dress-making company. As his mom's business grew, a young Rolando spent his days tinkering with with patterns, learning to sew and making colorful constructions come alive. 

Rolando's love for fashion never left him. In 1991, the budding designer moved to New York City to chase his dreams of creating his own line someday. Rolando secured business and design degrees at FIT. He landed a job at Spenser Jeremy. And he soon found himself creative director at Donna Morgan. 

In 2009 Rolando felt the time was right – he launched his own full collection. As for today, you may know Rolando is bursting onto the scene if you happened to catch his presentation at this season's New York Fashion Week. Many are now anticipating a rise to the elite ranks in the industry for this gifted designer.

The following is LookBooks' exclusive interview with Rolando Santana.

What was the inspiration behind your Fall 2011 Collection? 

Philip Guston, particularly his paintings in the late 60s abstract deep palette. I was inspired by the colors he used during that period and wanted to complement the darkness with amazing luxurious, textured fabrics and very feminine details.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to dress? 

 I would love to help elevate the first lady of Mexico’s black tie options.

We notice you have a lot of beautiful gowns in your Spring as well as Fall 2011 collections. Could we see a bridal collection in the near future? 

The collection keeps developing and yes, I see wedding dresses in the very near future as part of my collection. Many customers have approached me, and I have several wedding gowns orders for this coming Spring/Summer. 

What is the first feeling you have when your fashion show is over? 

Accomplishment. There is a tremendous amount of constant pressure gearing up to the show, but the adrenaline is there keeping you going – from the moment you send the first model onto the runway to the finale. It is the best feeling in the world.

What is the most comfortable outfit for yourself? 

I used to dress up more, but these days and definitely pre-fashion show date, I can be seen in a pair of beat-up jeans, comfortable boots and a cashmere sweater. 

What's your favorite part of Fashion Week? 

The women. They get all excited, creative and entitled. They own the streets during fashion week. I love that!

Tell us one thing you look forward to everyday as a designer. 

Coming to my studio to create.

What’s next on the horizon for you? When do you start working on Spring 2012?

 I have had many special requests for one-of-a-kind designs. I see myself spending part of my time with private clients, including very special wedding designs. The preparation for Spring 2011 has started. My mind starts running – literally – the day after the show.

The hair and make up were very strong for your Fall 2011 show. What was it like working with such talents like Joey from Mac and Patrick Neville on just your second runway show? 

Hair and makeup are such important elements for a show. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with both amazing talents. I think having their expertise made my collection come alive exactly the way I envisioned it. I had an original idea, they both listened to me, looked at the collection, and together, we came up with a look that balanced the perfect amount of chic. Their work complimented the collection and the strong beautiful women who carried the clothes.

For more on Rolando Santana and his newest collections, see his Web site. Follow him on Twitter @rolando_santana.

Photos: Eka Halim