OUR ALUMNI

Istituto Marangoni has been a beacon of excellence in fashion education, shaping the careers of countless professionals who have left an indelible mark on the industry. Over the years, our institution has welcomed a diverse array of talented individuals from around the globe, nurturing their creativity and honing their skills.

Istituto Marangoni has consistently provided a world-class education that combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques. Our illustrious alumni include renowned designers, influential stylists, and leading fashion executives who continue to drive the industry forward.

This enduring legacy is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering talent and inspiring the next generation of fashion leaders. As we continue to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of fashion, Istituto Marangoni Miami remains dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential and make significant contributions to the global fashion community.

Project Runway Winner and Fashion Designer Sebastian Grey is no stranger to the high-end market, with ten years of experience working with renowned designers like Lina Cantillo and Andres Otalora. Colombian-born Sebastian worked in his family’s leather business while growing up, learning his skill set for detail and precision by listening to what the customer wanted and keeping up with pop-cultural trends. Sebastian attended the Academy of Professional Drawing in Cali, Colombia, where he majored in fashion design. He won a scholarship to attend Istituto Marangoni in Miami, Florida, where he continued to develop and define his collections and capabilities as an artist. His collections as a professional designer have been seen all over Colombia, and he has owned and operated stores in Cali and Medellin under his Sebastian brand. Sebastian hopes to take the United States and abroad by storm with sophisticated concepts, unconventional construction methods, and attention to high-end detail.

Sofía Agostini is an independent fashion journalist and an adjunct faculty professor at the Istituto Marangoni of Miami. She teaches Research Methods at the Master’s level and Fashion Criticism & Digital Writing in the Introduction to Styling progressive course. She was part of the first cohort of Master’s students to graduate from the school and is an active member of the Marangoni Miami community. Her dissertation, Where Have All the Tailors Gone?, was published in the fall 2021 issue of Fashion Studies Journal. Particularly interested in the history and growth of Latin American Fashion, Agostini has contributed several entries to the encyclopedia ‘Raíces de la Moda’ of Vogue México and written profiles on upcoming regional designers. She also collaborates for publications like Vanity Fair Spain and DNA Magazine.

Clark Rosen’s transformative experience at Istituto Marangoni catalyzed his flourishing career in fashion. Initially possessing only a vague interest in fashion with no clear career direction, Clark’s participation in the Luxury Brand Management program challenged him to develop theoretical brands from concept to execution. This rigorous program helped him refine his vision, guiding him through researching target markets, conceptualizing products and aesthetics, and crafting business plans. By graduation, Clark had devised a comprehensive plan to launch a high-end men’s swimwear and activewear company.

Within a month of completing his studies, Clark launched SAMMY Menswear®, securing product placements in prestigious boutiques such as Soho House and The Standard. His brand is distinguished by its high-quality fabrics from Italy, Peru, and Japan and its bold, minimalist designs that challenge traditional boundaries. Over the past three years, SAMMY has grown into a notable brand within the LGBTQ+ men’s swimwear and loungewear market, boasting an online presence and physical retail locations. Clark is expanding SAMMY Menswear® internationally, with shipments extending to new markets like Australia, Canada, and Brazil.

Valeria Villalobos’s journey at Marangoni was a transformative experience, defined by rich learning opportunities and the mentorship of some of the field’s finest professors. This foundational education has been crucial in her post-graduation endeavor of launching her brand—a marketing and content studio aimed at helping new, small, and medium-sized brands achieve growth. Valeria’s studio enhances business operations, refines aesthetics, and elevates visual appeal. Now based in Miami, her studio has successfully collaborated with clients across the globe, from Latin America to Europe, significantly broadening her perspective and enriching her professional portfolio. Valeria is currently in Madrid, Spain, pursuing a Master’s degree in Marketing Direction and Digital Communication of Fashion and Luxury at ESIC. She is excited about the opportunity to continue her studies in Paris next year. Looking ahead, Valeria is enthusiastic about the prospects of learning from leading industry experts, exploring new horizons, and embracing future opportunities for both personal and professional growth. She is committed to the ongoing success of her brand and the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Camila Balleste, a standout student at Istituto Marangoni Miami, embarked on her fashion journey with a robust foundation from DASH—Design and Architecture High School. Awarded a full scholarship for her exceptional skills and potential, Camila has actively participated in every competition and collaboration the institute offers. Camila has distinguished herself through remarkable achievements at Istituto Marangoni, including winning the collaboration competition with Salvatore Ferragamo and triumphing in the Paraiso Swim Week challenge. Her active participation in several fashion weeks and her ability to create multiple collections under the guidance of school mentors have further showcased her talent and creativity. Today, Camila continues to advance her career in fashion with the launch of her website, which serves as a platform to showcase her impressive portfolio and skill set. This site highlights her unique design perspective and is a testament to her readiness to impact the fashion industry significantly.

Karla Urdaneta’s academic and professional journey has been marked by a deep commitment to both the business sector and the fashion and design realms. Hailing from Venezuela, Karla completed her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing in her home country before advancing to earn a Master’s degree in Luxury Brand Management from Istituto Marangoni. Luxury giants such as Balmain, Carolina Herrera, and Alexander McQueen inspire Karla’s passion for fashion. These influences have spurred her to create her brand, BLZE. Under this label, she has conceptualized two capsule collections emphasizing straight lines and symmetry, combining vibrant colors that appeal to multiple generations and bring a new perspective to the market. With BLZE, Karla aims to blend elegance with contemporary flair, targeting a new generation of consumers. Her vision, “A Rebellion To The Ordinary,” reflects her ambition to introduce innovative designs that challenge conventional aesthetics, aiming to significantly impact the industry and connect with the global community.

Valentina Ovalle’s time at Istituto Marangoni Miami was a transformative journey of creativity and innovation in interior design. Her education went beyond academic learning; it was a deep dive into the industry, enriched by direct interactions with iconic brand owners and visits to significant design locations. These experiences bridged classroom theory with real-world application and were instrumental in her professional growth. The close mentorship from professors at Istituto Marangoni Miami was pivotal in nurturing Valentina’s confidence and creativity, transforming her learning experience into a collaborative journey that significantly enhanced her understanding of design. Now poised to continue her educational and professional journey at Marangoni Milano, Valentina is ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities in the European design scene. Grateful for the solid foundation built in Miami, she looks forward to contributing her passion and creativity to Milan’s vibrant design world.

Maria Jose Duque, a graduate of our BA in Fashion Business program, credits Marangoni Miami for playing a pivotal role in her professional development. The institution provided her with access to exceptional teachers and industry leaders, which enriched her learning experience and opened up numerous opportunities. Maria’s education at Marangoni Miami enhanced her business acumen and honed her leadership skills. This solid foundation has empowered her to excel in the competitive world of fashion business, where she continues to apply the invaluable lessons and skills gained during her time at the school. Maria’s gratitude towards Marangoni Miami underscores the significant impact that the school has had on her career trajectory, shaping her into a proficient and insightful business professional.

After attending two youth programs at Istituto Marangoni, I learned so much about what path I want to take in the industry and my personal style. I learned from experts in the Fashion Industry about design, styling, and business. The team is extremely supportive and knowledgeable, and you genuinely learn in a personalized way which is why students thrive at the school. I fell so much in love with the school that I am now a Fashion Styling student. I have been able to meet and help big names like Kid Cudi, Guillermo Kahlo, and, our professors. Opportunities are constantly being offered at school, and they’re truly one of a kind. I’m wrapping up styling a runway for Palm Springs Fashion Week, along with my remarkable classmates.

After studying Education and Digital Marketing, Alessandra Belloso saw that her passion was in the storytelling aspect of the fashion industry. With a business and marketing background, Alessandra wanted to enhance her fashion luxury brand management knowledge. The Master of Fashion and Luxury Brand Management program perfectly matched what she was looking for. Alessandra had the opportunity to enhance her knowledge in the field through mentorships, theory classes, and brand partnerships that Istituto Marangoni Miami provided. She is now an Assistant Director of Marketing at Istituto Marangoni Miami, a job that mixes her two passions: education and fashion.

Edward Dickerson, a graduate of the Master of Arts in Fashion Luxury and Brand Management, has transitioned into a pivotal role at LVMH, where he is currently making significant strides as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) advocate. Known for his dynamic approach and results-driven ethos, Edward is dedicated to leading the development and implementation of accountable and impactful DEI programs. His initiatives at LVMH focus on enhancing representation, reducing implicit social biases, and fostering educational opportunities for underrepresented groups. Through these efforts, Edward is significantly contributing to the evolution of more inclusive and equitable business models within the company. His entrepreneurial flair and commitment to driving meaningful change underscore his influential position in shaping a more inclusive future in the luxury fashion industry.

Nicole Leaves works as a freelance fashion stylist specializing in commercials, editorials, videos, and runways while also serving as a personal shopper. Her versatile role encompasses meeting with clients, creating looks, sourcing wardrobe items, styling for various projects, and ensuring the return of items post-production. Her job allows her to work with an ample array of clients, from music artists, fashion brands, restaurants, and other companies to build a proper image for their business.

Priscilla Marquez, an alumna of our Fashion Luxury and Brand Management program, has seamlessly transitioned into a prominent role in the luxury retail sector. She serves as Omnichannel Support at Bulgari Corporation of America, where she plays a crucial role in expanding and advancing the company’s digital and distance sales channels. In her position, Priscilla oversees daily projects that are crucial for boosting sales and optimizing operational efficiency. Her educational background in luxury and brand management has equipped her with the expertise to effectively manage and enhance Bulgari’s omnichannel strategies, ensuring seamless online and offline customer experiences. Priscilla’s strategic approach and dedication drive the brand’s growth and success in a competitive marketplace.

Michael Acierno, a recent graduate of our Fashion Design program, has rapidly emerged as a dynamic force in the fashion industry. During his studies, he actively participated in brand partnerships, including a notable collaboration with Salvatore Ferragamo, and showcased his designs at various fashion weeks across the Americas. Michael’s innovative approach to fashion is evident in his recent venture, launching his brand, ‘Acierno.’ As the designer for Acierno’s collection of clothing and accessories, he enjoys experimenting with innovative techniques and materials. His commitment to sustainability is highlighted by his use of recycled plastic in his collections. Michael’s unique blend of creativity and environmental consciousness positions his brand to significantly impact the fashion landscape.

Maria Serapiglia, a graduate of our BFA in Fashion Business program, has taken a significant step in her career by joining Kering Eyewear as a LATAM Customer Service intern. Kering Eyewear is part of the prestigious Kering Group, a global luxury conglomerate that houses several renowned fashion, leather goods, and jewelry brands. In her role, Maria is pivotal in enhancing customer service strategies and operations across Latin America. Her education in fashion business has provided her with a robust understanding of luxury brand management, which she now applies to optimize customer engagement and satisfaction. Maria’s position at Kering Eyewear allows her to contribute directly to the success and growth of the brand in a dynamic and competitive luxury market.

Uma Peña, currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Design, has embraced the comprehensive opportunities provided by our school to step out of her comfort zone and explore Miami’s vibrant cultural scene. Her philosophy as a designer—to try everything—has dramatically enriched her creative endeavors. Uma is a freelance designer and an artist and creative who finds expression in writing poems and designing unique pieces. Her passion for creating is evident in every facet of her work, allowing her to make a distinct mark in the fashion and art communities. As Uma continues her studies, she applies the insights gained from her varied experiences in Miami to develop her distinctive style and artistic voice further. Her commitment to exploration and creativity continues to guide her journey, promising a bright future in the design world.

Candela is a creative, enthusiastic, and responsible Fashion Business graduate who has demonstrated a love for tackling new challenges and seizing opportunities for growth within the program. Candela is a dedicated and multi-tasking individual with a passion for the dynamic world of fashion, known for her hard work and commitment to excellence. Her journey at Istituto Marangoni Miami has been marked by invaluable support and countless enriching experiences since her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Business began. From the outset, Candela has embraced every opportunity to expand her knowledge and skills, immersing herself fully in the business world.

She started her studies at Istituto Marangoni Miami with a Virtual Master of Arts in Fashion Luxury and Brand Management. Then she found her passion for styling while diving into the intricacies of the fashion world. Midway through her Master’s degree, Viola decided to study our One-Year Vocational Program in Fashion Styling. Through this, Viola worked as an assistant stylist for Capsool, a Miami-based brand selling pre-owned luxury garments and accessories. Viola is now living in Italy, working at Hermes in Client Relations.