His impactful participation in Dallas Fashion Week from October 3rd to 6th has captivated the interest of discerning clients, leaving us yearning to delve deeper into his visionary and imaginative journey.
About the Artist: Joseph Ledesma hails from Fresno, California but spent his formative years in Laredo, TX. In 2011, he made the significant move to San Antonio, TX, with the goal of obtaining his Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising from Sanford Brown College. Presently, Joseph Ledesma continues to call San Antonio, TX, his home, where he serves as the exclusive creative director for his own brand “LEDESMA”
N.G. We appreciate your participation! Before we begin, our audience is curious to learn more about you. Could you please share your “backstory” and what inspired you to pursue this career?
J.L. From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to fashion. It’s an art form woven into fabric and tailored to the human form. Fashion stands as a multi-billion dollar industry, but it’s more than that; it’s a way of life, an essential part of our identity, a form of personal expression. Fashion has the power to convey emotions and narrate stories. It plays a role in creating enduring memories, frozen in time through photographs. So, when I’m asked why I want to pursue a career in this field, the answer is simple: I aspire to clothe individuals of all kinds, making them feel beautiful, confident, and inspired.
N.G. Tell us more about your clients and what they appreciate most about your collection. Are you able to accommodate custom orders as well?
J.L. Clients from all corners of the globe value the couture aspects of my evening gowns. I have a passion for designing with a specific individual in mind, infusing my unique design aesthetic. Yet, I also take great pleasure in collaborating with my clients, embracing their visions, and ensuring that it remains a joyful partnership while staying true to the distinctive LEDESMA brand.
N.G. In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges faced by emerging artists?
J.L. One of my most significant challenges is marketing, particularly in showcasing my artwork to a wider audience. This exposure is essential for attracting potential investors who can believe in and support the brand’s global expansion. As an emerging designer, it’s crucial to stand out while remaining accessible to clients worldwide. I believe that building a strong team and diversifying into ready-to-wear, cocktail attire, and evening gowns will pave the way for establishing a household name effectively. Finding investors may be a daunting challenge, but by persevering and consistently showcasing my talents, I’m confident that success will eventually follow.
House of Ledesma Collection. Photo: Farid Zarrinabadi, Dallas Fashion Week
N.G. Tell us more about your clients and what they appreciate most about your collection/product/service. Are you able to accommodate custom orders as well?How Dallas Fashion Week is helping your business?
J.L. Participating in the Dallas Fashion Show was a significant milestone for me. It not only helped me expand my client base but also opened doors to potential collaborations with talented photographers, model agencies, makeup artists, and fellow designers. The event provided a valuable platform for networking and self-promotion, resulting in a substantial increase in my followers after the show. Dallas Fashion Week served as a motivating force, driving me to create more garments and share them with the world.
The experience is undeniably challenging, demanding meticulous organization and an ability to adapt quickly to changing settings. However, the effort expended is unquestionably well worth it. For artists looking to make a mark in the local fashion and art scene, Dallas Fashion Week offers a vibrant stage, fostering connections with fellow creatives and capturing the attention of a diverse and engaged audience. It stands as a testament to the dedication and determination of emerging talents, offering a promising pathway towards recognition and success.
Photo: Ellen Yang, backstage at Dallas Fashion Week
Photo: Ellen Yang, backstage at Dallas Fashion Week
N.G. What are the key considerations for Fashion Designers participating in their First Fashion Week?
J.L. Be able to appreciate the failures that happens backstage and learning from those failures. It’s not always going to be perfect as we invasion but allowing yourself to be open to learn from your failures allows you to be more open and receptive to grow as a Designer. It helpS build a strong back bone and be proactive in your next shows. Sometimes its okay to fail but getting back up will be the real challenge.
N.G. Share with us your favorite brands and what makes them stand out in your opinion?
J.L. Christian Dior, Oscar De La Renta, Thierry Mugler, Versace, and Chanel are undoubtedly iconic brands, each with its unique and unmistakable aesthetic that defines their signature style. When you think of household names in the fashion industry, these are some of the first that come to mind. They embody both quality and a distinct vision, and they serve as an inspiration for me as my brand continues to evolve. They encourage me to challenge myself and remain open to exploring new looks and horizons in the world of fashion.
House of Ledesma Collection. Photo: Thomas Almholt, Dallas Fashion Week
N.G. Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.”
― Robert F. Kennedy
J.L. This will always be my favorite quote. I believe as humans we fear to fail or ask ourselves “What If”. I learned through out my life when I self reflect in my failures it makes me a stronger person. It helps me build character and become more wise. It helps me grow and be better. It’s not easy for me to accept my failures it takes me time and I can be extremely hard to myself, but I always end up coming back to Mr. Kennedy quote and remind myself that I will never ask myself “what if” and achieve greatly in life.
N.G. How can our readers follow you online?
J.L. To stay connected with us online, kindly follow our brand on Instagram. We are excited to collaborate with new clients and look forward to engaging with our readers.
Instagram: @house_ledesma
Venue: Christopher Martin Gallery, Dallas Fashion Week Opening Night
Models: Darya Fallah, Aliceana Thompson, Cate Thomasson, Allyson Hoffman, Andrea Timmons, Lucy Tinsley, Faith Kalich, Gabriella Sanchez, Kaylee Vasquez, Macy Johnson, Mikayla Seeliger, Samantha Moris, Molly Hill.
MUA: Capelli Salon
For the editorial or business inquiries, please, contact DFW editorial team: vendor@dallasfashionweek.org
