Alexis George
As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds from September 15 to October 15, we want to spotlight the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans. This year, the fashion world is abuzz with a story that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this celebration. Meet Leonardo and Ana Sofia Cordero, the father-daughter duo behind the fashion brand Leonardo 5th Avenue (L5A). They made history at New York Fashion Week, the world’s most prestigious runway, on Sept. 9 for the second time.
A Legacy of Fashion and Heritage
The father-daughter duo are not just any designers; they are the third and fourth generations of a fashion legacy that spans over 50 years. They were the only designers representing Florida and Puerto Rico this year and even more remarkably, they were the event’s only father-and-daughter team in recent history.
To commemorate the special moment, the brand hosted in-person events to display the NYFW show live the same evening at its retail locations in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Winter Park, FL.
Aptly titled “Unfiltered,” the new collection aims to provide balance in an unpredictable world, drawing inspiration from nature. Earthy pigments, raw edges, and asymmetrical details create a contrast between polished and edgy, capturing the essence of the collection. The texture is a key element, with premium fabrics blending seamlessly together to create looks that are both raw and beautiful.
“For us, the meaning of Unfiltered is to live an authentic and sincere life while accepting your limitations and flaws with a sense of optimism and hope for this future, and this is the feeling we are trying to convey through our collection UNFILTERED SS2024,” said the designers.
Overcoming Challenges and Innovating
L5A’s journey is inspiring. They established their U.S. mainland flagship store in Winter Park in 2020, just a month before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Today, they have a global footprint with stores and ateliers in Puerto Rico, New York, and the Dominican Republic. What sets them apart is their unique approach to design. Merging daring streetwear aesthetics with formal, tailored clothing, they’ve created an urban look described as stylish and incredibly fun to wear.
Initially focused on men’s fashion, L5A has evolved to include powerful suits for women. The brand offers a unique Design-to-Order and couture line where clients can customize their suits with the help of a style consultant. Leveraging proprietary software, clients can visualize alterations in real time, choosing from a diverse selection of fabrics, linings, buttons, zippers, and more. With over 500 possible combinations, the brand ensures each client a unique look.
Their participation in NYFW 2023 is not just a win for them but a moment of pride for the Hispanic community. To learn more about Leonardo 5th Avenue, visit https://l5a.com/.
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