Q&A with Courtney Allegra
The 15-year-old fashion phenom chats with us about her designs, fashion inspirations and hopes for the future.
In high school, most girls are worrying about academics, boys and hanging out with friends. But 15-year-old Courtney Allegra worries about building her fashion empire.
The young design star, first shown to the world at Hollywood’s Top Designer event in 2012, has put herself on the fast track to being a style powerhouse.
The San Diego native, budding actress, model and equestrian champion credits her serious passion and the support of her family for her overwhelming success. With her collection now up on her new website, Allegra details how her dream became a reality as well as what’s coming up next for her.
SheKnows: How did your passion for design come about?
Courtney Allegra: I’ve been designing since I was a little girl. I love it. I started sketching my ideas first but it was just for fun, just for me. My mom told me I should start manufacturing my own stuff. I entered my designs into a fashion show. After that I made my website and that was it. I decided it would be better if I could share my stuff with people!
SK: You first showcased your line at Hollywood’s Top Designer last spring. What was that experience like?
CA: I loved it! I was nervous at first, but once the clothes started going down the runway, it got easier and I got more excited. People really received it well and it got me some great coverage. I just felt better because everything turned out great.
SK: Your current collection boasts a lot of edge and individuality. What was the idea behind this line?
CA: Well, I actually wanted to do more of a goth line originally and then I blended more goth and urban styles for a more modern look. I love studs and leather, so that all fit in. I’m actually starting to incorporate more corsets into the line too.
SK: Who are some of your top designer inspirations?
CA: Armani, definitely. I love their leathers and funny story, but I went into their store once and saw that they use the same hot pink leather that I use, so that was hilarious! Dolce & Gabbana is also a favorite.
SK: You’ve said that your travels have influenced your designs. Is there any place or particular culture that you’ve pulled from for inspiration?
CA: Actually in France, I got to go to this mountainside village and see all of the variety and colors and interact with the people, so I was inspired by that. Also in Toulon, France, they had this lavender ice cream that was in this beautiful lilac kind of color and I loved that so I’ve incorporated the lilacs and lavender shades into some of my designs.
SK: Who are some of your favorite style icons today?
CA: Oh gosh, this is a hard one! I’d say Adam Lambert, Jennifer Lawrence and Selena Gomez. I love their looks.
SK: Can you share any info about the designs that you’re currently working on?
CA: I’m working on a lot of light colors and even Chinese-inspired corsets with Geisha colors and prints. It’s a big shift — it’s really different. I wanted to add a touch of variety and some new things for summer.
SK: What advice do you have for other aspiring artists?
CA: Stay focused. Especially if you’re a teen, it’s easy to get distracted with different things. Just keep that focus on everything you do.
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