New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/06/2010 -- For this season Hernan Lander proposes a captivating union of polished and rustic essentials. Material elements and semi-precious stones reveal their authority on the beadings, the prints and the detailing of the clothing. Modern day architectural marvels impose their structure on the precise cuts of the jackets and the asymmetric bands. Wool, cashmere, matt jerseys, leather and snake skin create a soft and hard juxtaposition of textures while femininely curved shoulders and flexible zipper structures emphasize Hernan’s love for the female body. The palette is monochromatic with dominant purple accents. The unmistakably sumptuous couture creations create a feminine essence that is sophisticated and sensual, complex and aware. The collection highlights pieces like silk tops, structured jackets, ruched fitted skirts, ultra feminine dresses and red-carpet-worthy evening gowns.

INSPIRATION
Hernan Lander draws upon his experience observing fashion trends in both Europe and the United States, giving him a well-rounded perspective and allowing him to expand his own design horizons. His exquisitely crafted designs have garnered public attention and attracted a discerning and growing clientele. He has found New York City to be an inspiration - not only because of its cultural and lifestyle diversity and cosmopolitan views - but also because of the willingness of its people to break with the norms and take fashion risks.

This year’s collection is inspired by the architectural marvels and the beauty of different regions and cities of the world and is a tribute to the inner and outer beauty of women around the globe. The theme is the continuing journey in the endless pursuit of beauty. Hernan uses luxurious materials that fall beautifully on the female body incorporating the principles of haute couture.

CRAFTSMANSHIP
Hernan Lander has always had a passion for sewing, decorating, painting, drawing and other creative pursuits. Growing up in a country with a rich tradition of craftsmanship, the designer started developing his skills at an early age, experimenting with different materials in a variety of combinations. "The beauty of any craft is that it is endless" observes Hernan Lander. The designer uses only the highest quality leather, jersey, silk and crystal beadings among other materials that are all imported from Italy, in combinations that fit his creative vision of beauty. All of his garments are exclusively made in New York.

RECOGNITION
His collection, which was presented on February 12th at the famed OpenHouse Gallery in Soho, was widely applauded and enthusiastically received. Time Out Magazine included him on the list of the 10 Breakout Designers of 2010.

Hernan Lander continues to expand his business and reputation as one of Dominican Republic’s top designers. He is now poised to make his mark on the demanding U.S. fashion scene and market.

DESIGNER BIOGRAPHY
Hernan Lander employs visions of modern art and creative forms of architecture in his visions of fashion design. Since his beginnings at Altos De Chavon, in the Dominican Republic, he was recognized with the Silver and Amber Thimble trophy and was awarded a full scholarship to study at Parsons/The New School for Design. During his studies, Hernan won the Silver Thimble for men’s wear before he finished his junior year.

Before graduating from these prestigious universities, Hernan worked for many prominent New York designers (such as Velasco Couture) where he collaborated with such names as: Rogelio Velasco and Ralph Lauren. He was a finalist for the Gap. Inc competition (2007), and won first place in the Nordstrom Competition (2007) where his first collection was produced and sold in the spring/summer of 2008. This up-and-coming designer was nominated as the Designer of the Year at Parsons School of Design and won the Gold Thimble during his senior year of studies. Hernan was working for the Donna Karan Collection until December of 2008 when he decided to start with his own collection.

Hernan is currently living in New York concentrating on making a mark in the Fashion World.