Esteban Cortazar
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The Label
One of the youngest designers in the tents, Cortazar is still making his mark after entering the business in 2002 at the age of 18. The Colombian-born, Miami-raised son of an artist and a jazz singer began designing when he was 10 by taking old clothes apart and then stapling random pieces together. At 13, he started showing sketches to Todd Oldham, a mentor he found under his apartment at Miami’s News Café. While in New York for an Oldham show, Cortazar introduced himself to Bloomingdale’s Kal Ruttenstein, and soon afterward gave Ruttenstein a private showing of his glamorous gowns with a Spanish influence, in luxe fabrics and bright colors. It wasn’t long before the fashion prodigy was featured at Bloomingdale’s, and then Bryant Park.
The Look
Flamenco dancer goes to Hollywood.
The Designer
Esteban Cortazar has designed his own line all along.


