Designer Icel De Jesus has carved out a niche for her ready-to-wear brand, Icel New York. and proudly based in New York, NY, De Jesus embodies the spirit of persistence and passion. Her brand, known for its bold and irregular aesthetic, celebrates every woman’s unique beauty, empowering them to present themselves to the world on their own terms. As De Jesus puts it, “You can make the world see you how you want to be seen.” This philosophy drives Icel New York, a label that defies convention and invites individuality in an industry often bound by trends.
From Humble Beginnings to Carolina Herrera’s Endorsement
Icel De Jesus’s journey into fashion was anything but straightforward, marked by long hours, unwavering dedication, and a deep love for the craft. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), she took a bold step that would define her career. With the help of a domestic employee, De Jesus managed to hand her portfolio directly to one of her greatest inspirations: legendary designer Carolina Herrera. Herrera, impressed by the work, sent a personal note inviting De Jesus to her office for an assistant designer position. However, upon arrival, she learned the role had been filled and was offered an assistant technical designer spot instead.
De Jesus turned it down, determined to pursue pure design. Yet, Herrera’s affirmation that she had the talent to become whatever she aspired to be ignited a fire within her. “It hasn’t been easy, but I have come a long way,” De Jesus reflects. She honed her skills working for other fashion houses, gaining invaluable experience until she felt ready to launch her own venture. In time, Icel New York Inc. was born, a testament to her resilience. The struggles were real: closed doors, relentless effort, and the challenge of breaking into a competitive field. But De Jesus’s story is one of triumph, proving that dreams are achievable with belief and hard work. As she advises aspiring creators, “Anything is possible, you have to believe in yourself and work your way to where you want to be. Doesn’t matter if many doors close; keep trying.”
Her personal brand thrives on this ethos. Icel New York operates as a ready-to-wear line, focusing on pieces that are unapologetically bold and irregular. The business model emphasizes direct-to-consumer appeal, highlighting garments that accentuate individuality. Products range from statement dresses to avant-garde separates, all designed to make wearers feel seen and empowered. What sets Icel New York apart from peers like Alexander McQueen, Carolina Herrera, Vivienne Westwood, YSL, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Prada, brands De Jesus admires, is its uniquely irregular style. It’s not just fashion; it’s a declaration of self-expression in a sea of uniformity.
Milestones and Media Spotlights: A Trail of Achievements
De Jesus’s accomplishments read like a fashion fairytale. Her collections have graced the runways of New York Fashion Week (NYFW), captivating audiences with their daring designs. Visibility soared when Icel New York appeared on iconic billboards in Times Square and Las Vegas, Nevada, turning heads in some of the world’s busiest hubs. Media features have amplified her reach, with British Vogue, GQ, Condé Nast Traveler, Mayfair Magazine, House of Coco, Style Weekly, and more spotlighting her work.
Recognition hasn’t stopped at the press. De Jesus received a special fashion designer award from Felipe Flebes, founder and director of the renowned Dominican Parade, in recognition of her cultural impact. She also earned the Viva La Mujer award for her contributions to women’s empowerment through design. Her portfolio includes creating looks for high-profile figures like Miss Honduras Universe and Miss RDUS, blending glamour with global appeal. Adding to her media presence, De Jesus has appeared in fashion segments on Telemundo News, sharing insights into her creative process.
These milestones fill her with pride, a far cry from her high school days when a friend wrote in her yearbook, “I hope to see you in Vogue magazine one day.” They all laughed then, but years later, De Jesus was featured in Vogue with her brand’s name, a life lesson in the unpredictability of fate. “You never know what surprise the future holds. Just believe in yourself,” she shares, hoping to inspire others facing doubt.
Envisioning a Global Empire: Inspiration for the Next Generation
Looking ahead, De Jesus’s vision is clear: to make Icel New York a globally recognized name. In an industry dominated by established giants, her brand’s bold irregularity offers a fresh perspective, encouraging women to embrace their authentic selves. She draws inspiration from her admired designers but forges her path with a style that’s distinctly her own.
De Jesus hopes her story motivates others, especially in fashion, designer circles, and beyond. “Nothing comes easy, so you have to work hard and dedicate time,” she emphasizes. Through Icel New York, she not only sells clothing but also sells confidence. a reminder that with persistence, even the most irregular dreams can become reality.
