Monica Leigh Rodriquez is a Los Angeles fashion designer and founder of Monica Leigh SVX. Her Design House focuses on a high and unique aesthetic, handmade in Los Angeles by the finest tailors, dedicated to artistry and quality. Monica Leigh came from little means, yet worked hard, persistently making her way through an education of fashion design. Determined and energized, Monica became an Executive in the Fashion Industry. She has worked closely with Arianna Huffington and Barbara Sinatra on their personal wardrobes at Lane Davis Beverly Hills, Lubov Azria of BCBG, Halston in Los Angeles, Andrea Lieberman of A.L.C., and FJ Benjamin in Singapore developing their Raoul collection. Monica Leigh is inspired by a penchant for nature both earthly and otherworldly. Her artwork from drawing and painting to fashion design has a signature “curve”, a spiraling swirl that is both whimsical and elegant. Her love of colors, shapes, and textures drawn from nature embodies her every collection.
FWM: When did your passion for fashion begin?
My passion for fashion began when I was a kid, a little kid, looking at my older sisters Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan magazines! I loved the wild fashion towards the back of the mags! The awesome over the top cat walk images were so artistic. The vibrant colors and the edgy shapes excited me! My imagination was inspired. I have always been creative, and in my early twenties I realized I wanted to be a designer.
FWM: You were an executive in the fashion industry working with Arianna Huffington and Barbara Sinatra on their personal wardrobes. What did you learn?
The confidence these women exude is phenomenal. It’s catchy and contagious! I was also taken by their genuine warmth and welcome toward me. It made me realize a mature woman is a beautiful thing, powerful and in control.
FWM: Tell us about Monica Leigh SXV.
I have always been different and creative, it must naturally carry through into the designs. I love to think of newness; new shapes, new lines, new treatments. The artistry of design. Envisioning the curved lines falling around the body dimensionally, then sketching out the visions is the creative process that results in the translation of what makes Monica Leigh unique.
FWM: What are the trends today?
Long lanky elegant comfort! Sophisticated color, layered sheers, pieces that trend toward unique personal styles translating into both a business day and into personal time and enjoyment.
FWM: Tell us about your timeless pieces.
Making a tailored jacket with electric detail in elegance of the highest quality with a fabulous fit, and achieving newness that remains new almost timelessly, and that feels so comfortable both physically and emotionally is the goal I have with each piece. Whether it is a jacket, dress, or gown, this driving force makes the pieces timeless.
FWM: You work with many celebrities on custom couture designs. Tell us more.
I love to see each special piece match the person’s vibe and vibrancy! I love to see the personality exude through the design and in its personalized fit making the natural connection between the person and the piece.
FWM: How are you making an impact on the youth of today?
Sharing with youth to listen to their calling, pursuing their desires and dreams. I support the arts, helping youth gain confidence in themselves and their abilities. I believe in our youth, I want them to know that they can do so much more and that they can make a difference. I hope to see more of our youth break down the barriers of what holds them back and do what makes their soul fulfilled.
www.MonicaLeigh.com
@monicaleighsvx
