Arturo Valdez, Mexican Designer Makes his Debut Across Borders at Latino Fashion Live 2014

By: Cindy G. Castillo

Artistic expression is the main fuel that drives Arturo Valdez.

During his childhood, courses in painting and pottery helped shape his imagination.

It was at the age of 16 that his interest in fashion design sparked. Photography was a hobby for Valdez; he used his friends as models, and used what was available to set up his own photo shoots from home.

One day, at the center of his hometown, Hermosillo, Sonora, he found an old piece of cloth on the floor.

He took it home and worked on it with his mother’s sewing machine and started to create.

“I came up with an attempt of a dress for a photo shoot. (The pictures) came out pretty good, and it was then that fashion design started to get my attention,” he said.

As his interest continued to grow, he entered a fashion design contest that included only garments made out of recyclable materials.

His dress design made entirely of coffee filters took home first place.

Among the prizes was also an admission to a fashion school in Hermosillo.

“All my passion was born since that first collection in my state. I kept working with photographers; they invited me to do photo shoots, and it was then that I saw it as something great,” he said.

Valdez’ creative process is based entirely on his imagination and inspiration. He imagines an idea, gathers materials, and creates without the guidance of a sketch.

“(My work) is always born from an idea in my head, but what’s awesome is surprising yourself when you see your finished work,” he said.

He describes seeing his vision on a runway show, a photography, or worn by an actress as a reward.

As a designer, Arturo Valdez can be best defined as a true romantic.

“I love to bring out a woman’s femininity … I love getting inspiration from flowers, from classic paintings, lace work … I find romanticism in all of that,” he said.

Today, Valdez is a 23-year-old with 5 years in the fashion industry.

This year, he is proud to announce the debut of his work in the United States at Latino Fashion Live 2014.

“(Latino Fashion Live) will be a great opportunity to keep growing as far as me personally and professionally,” he said.

In a year, Valdez plans to have an established store location in his hometown.

“People are willing to buy from Mexican designers. I see myself more mature as a designer with an even more defined style with greater quality,” Valdez said.

He advises students to be patient when it comes to career opportunities, and emphasizes the importance of establishing life goals and objectives.

“Opportunities do arrive. When you are sure of what you’re doing and what you want to do with your life, look at it as a long-term goal … so if something doesn’t happen in a year, don’t lose patience and keep working,” he said.

Arizonalatinos.com invites you to enjoy the debut of Arturo Valdez’ designs at this year’s Latino Fashion Live 2014. Save the date for this one-of-a-kind event coming to you May 17^th at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino.

Tickets are now on sale at www.wingilariver.com.