Background: Agga Raya never even considered going to school for fashion; she was born into it, with her parents working as designers and manufacturers in Poland. At age 16, she created her first fashion show and, now, ten years later, she’s running her own line, the AGGA B. Collection.
Design Aesthetic: Modern, elegant and sophisticated, with a definite European flavor. “It’s directed to a woman who pays attention to fashion and beauty,” says Raya.
Designer Inspirations: Old-school classics like Valentino and Armani because of their silhouettes, tailoring and attention to detail.
Chicago Inspirations: The Chicago Fashion Incubator at Macy’s on State. Last year, Raya was selected as one of the Designers in Residence, something she says has been a tremendous help.
Agga Raya
On being a designer in Chicago: Raya says when she moved to Chicago, the fashion world was quiet, but now “we’re in a period of change. I feel like I’m a part of a very important process in the city, with fashion week and Macy’s.”
What’s New: Raya’s currently working with Toyota’s conceptual-cars design team, a new “gorgeous!” collection and styling for various magazines as well as Oprah. “Collaboration and networking is the key to success,” she says. “Be open-minded and out there.”
Find AGGA B. at 1568 North Damen and online at aggab.com
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