In an industry that thrives on reinvention, Layana Aguilar is weaving culture, confidence and creativity into the fabric of fashion’s future. With a career spanning television, couture, education and social media, she has emerged as a visionary who seamlessly combines artistry with purpose, redefining what it means to leave a legacy in the world of fashion.From gracing television screens on Project Runway to designing for Disney royalty, Aguilar has established herself as a powerhouse who blends bold designs, cultural representation and a fierce commitment to empowering the next generation of fashion innovators. Now, as the founder of The Fashion Squad School and a social media sensation, Layana is reshaping the intersection of creativity, education and sustainability—one stitch, one student and one viral video at a time.
The Making of a Visionary
Born in Brazil, Layana was deeply influenced by her upbringing, surrounded by vibrant culture, intricate textiles and a rich history of craftsmanship. Growing up, she watched her grandmother embroider delicate mandala flowers, a tradition that would later inspire her groundbreaking design for Disney’s Elena of Avalor. “Those moments taught me that fashion is more than clothes—it’s a story, a memory, a connection to who we are,” she recalls.Layana’s path to success was anything but conventional. After moving to New York City, she enrolled at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology, where she refined her raw talent into a professional craft. Her passion and drive led her to work at Oscar de la Renta, a defining experience that instilled in her an appreciation for timeless elegance and meticulous detail. In 2013, she launched her eponymous brand, blending feminine sophistication with streetwear influences, earning her national acclaim on Project Runway Season 11.Her designs stood out not only for their aesthetic appeal, but also for the stories they told. Layana became a designer with a mission: to use fashion as a platform to celebrate individuality, heritage and cultural pride. This mission came to life in her work with Disney, where she created the iconic gown for Elena of Avalor, the first Latina Disney princess.“That gown was so much more than a piece of clothing,” Aguilar explained. “It was about telling a story—a story of culture, family and pride. I wanted every Latina girl to look at that dress and see themselves in it.” Her attention to detail, from the vibrant colors to the mandala-inspired embroidery, turned the gown into a symbol of empowerment and representation.
Empowering the Next Generation
While her designs captured global attention, Layana’s most transformative venture began in her living room. What started as informal sewing lessons for a few neighborhood kids quickly grew into The Fashion Squad School, a thriving institution that now serves over 200 students weekly.Located in New York City, The Fashion Squad School offers after-school programs, fashion camps and hands-on workshops that teach children the fundamentals of design. But it’s not just about sewing and sketching; it’s about instilling creativity, confidence and self-expression.“For me, fashion isn’t just about creating beautiful garments; it’s about creating confident individuals,” Layana said. “The most rewarding part is watching a shy student light up when they finish their first piece. They’re not just learning to sew; they’re discovering their voice and realizing they can create something meaningful.”Layana’s school has become a beacon for young creatives, many of whom have gone on to win local design competitions or pursue careers in fashion. Through her mentorship, Layana is ensuring the next generation of designers not only has the skills to succeed but also the courage to innovate.Going Viral with Sew & Flow
True to her innovative spirit, Layana has taken her creativity to social media, where she’s captivated millions with her original series, Sew & Flow and Revamp My Jacket.In Sew & Flow, she merges her love for fashion with her passion for Latin dance. The series showcases her creating stunning garments while moving rhythmically to the vibrant beats of samba, salsa and bossa nova. It’s an art form in itself—a celebration of movement, culture and craftsmanship that resonates deeply with her audience.Her Revamp My Jacket series, on the other hand, highlights her commitment to sustainability. In this wildly popular show, Layana takes old jackets from strangers and transforms them into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. The debut episode alone garnered over 18 million views, cementing her status as a creative trailblazer.“Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility,” Aguilar said. “Through these transformations, I want to show people that fashion can be both innovative and eco-conscious.”These series have not only expanded her audience, but also reinforced her role as a storyteller who uses fashion to spark conversations about heritage, sustainability and creativity.
A Global Influence
Layana’s influence extends far beyond her social media presence. She’s appeared on Project Runway All-Stars and has been featured on The Sherri Show and Telemundo, among other platforms. Her work has been celebrated in prestigious publications such as Vogue Brazil, Cosmopolitan Brazil, Elle Canada, and The New York Post.She has also dressed celebrities like Brazilian superstar Anitta, further solidifying her reputation as a designer with a global reach. Yet, despite her success, Layana remains grounded in her mission to inspire and uplift others.“I’ve been fortunate to have incredible opportunities, but what truly drives me is the chance to make an impact,” she said. “Whether it’s through my designs, my school, or my social media content, my goal is to empower others to embrace their uniqueness and creativity.
”Redefining Fashion for the Future
As the fashion world shifts toward inclusivity, sustainability and social impact, Layana Aguilar is leading the charge. Her designs celebrate diversity, her school nurtures young talent and her social media content pushes the boundaries of creativity.“Fashion is more than fabric; it’s a vehicle for empowerment, representation, and connection,” Aguilar said. “I want to redefine what it means to be a designer in the 21st century—not just someone who creates beautiful clothes, but someone who inspires change.”Her work with The Fashion Squad School is already creating ripple effects, fostering a generation of designers who see fashion as a tool for storytelling and innovation. Meanwhile, her social media series continues to engage and educate audiences around the world, proving that fashion can be fun, meaningful and sustainable.
Designing a Legacy
Whether she’s mentoring future designers, dazzling millions with her creative storytelling, or championing cultural pride, Layana Aguilar is a reminder that fashion is a powerful medium for change. Her journey—from a young girl inspired by her grandmother’s embroidery to a celebrated designer and educator—is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.And as her story continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Layana Aguilar is not just designing garments—she’s designing a legacy.
