Fernando Garcia: Co-Creative Director of Oscar de la Renta and Monse

Summary

Climbing in Heels with Rachel Zoe Episode: Fernando Garcia: Co-Creative Director of Oscar de la Renta and Monse Release Date: December 27, 2024

---

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Climbing in Heels with Rachel Zoe, host Rachel Zoe welcomes Fernando Garcia, the esteemed Co-Creative Director of Oscar de la Renta and Monse. Rachel delves deep into Fernando's inspiring journey from an architecture student to a pivotal figure in the fashion industry. The conversation highlights Fernando's dedication, his collaborative spirit with co-founder Laura Kim, and the challenges and triumphs of navigating leadership in a legendary fashion house post-Oscar de la Renta.

---

Fernando's Journey in Fashion (03:12 - 06:18)

Rachel begins by setting the stage for Fernando's impressive ascent within Oscar de la Renta. Fernando shares his initial steps, mentioning his architectural studies and how they seamlessly transitioned into the fashion world.

“I came from an architectural background, which surprisingly complements fashion design in ways I hadn’t initially realized.”
— Fernando Garcia [04:20]

Fernando recounts his internship experiences and rapid progression, moving from intern to senior designer in just six years. He emphasizes the mentorship and relationships that were instrumental in his growth, particularly his connection with Oscar de la Renta himself.

---

Building Relationships and Team Dynamics (06:18 - 12:32)

The discussion shifts to Fernando's relationship with Oscar de la Renta and his collaboration with Laura Kim. Fernando reflects on the deep bond formed during their time together, highlighting how Oscar’s mentorship shaped his professional ethos.

“Oscar had this incredible ability to see potential in sketches within seconds. It was both intimidating and inspiring.”
— Fernando Garcia [08:59]

Fernando describes the dynamic work environment at Oscar de la Renta’s studio, sharing anecdotes about high-pressure moments like hosting runway shows and the emotional impact of Oscar’s passing.

---

Transition to Leadership and Coping with Loss (12:32 - 16:31)

Rachel and Fernando navigate the profound experience of Oscar de la Renta’s final days and his passing. Fernando opens up about the emotional turmoil and the profound sense of loss felt by him and Laura.

“Losing Oscar was like losing a part of my creative soul. It was a defining moment for both Laura and me.”
— Fernando Garcia [14:45]

He recounts the last moments he spent with Oscar, conveying the deep respect and admiration he had for the designer. This period was pivotal in Fernando and Laura’s decision to establish their own brand, Monse.

---

Establishing Monse: Challenges and Aspirations (28:33 - 33:27)

Fernando discusses the genesis of Monse, explaining that the venture wasn’t just a business move but a necessary step for personal and professional growth outside of Oscar de la Renta’s legacy.

“Starting Monse was about understanding who we were as independent designers and carving out our unique identity.”
— Fernando Garcia [33:08]

He elaborates on the strategic decisions behind launching a new brand, the differences in brand DNA between Monse and Oscar de la Renta, and the meticulous planning that went into ensuring Monse’s success in a competitive market.

---

Navigating Competition and Team Synergy (21:02 - 24:11)

The conversation delves into Fernando and Laura’s competitive yet harmonious partnership. Fernando explains how healthy competition within the team fosters creativity and excellence.

“Laura and I push each other to outdo ourselves every season. It’s this fierce competition that drives innovation.”
— Fernando Garcia [21:45]

He acknowledges Laura’s role in aligning the team’s priorities, enhancing collaboration, and maintaining a unified vision despite the inherent competition in the fashion industry.

---

Creativity and Adaptation in Modern Fashion (34:18 - 40:38)

Fernando shares insights into maintaining creativity and staying relevant in the ever-evolving fashion landscape. He touches upon the integration of architectural elements into his designs, a nod to his educational background, and discusses how Monse balances couture influences with contemporary trends.

“Incorporating architectural elements allows our designs to stand out, blending structure with elegance.”
— Fernando Garcia [40:15]

He also highlights the importance of building strong relationships with stylists and understanding their pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of their creations.

---

Handling Copycats and Protecting Creativity (35:02 - 40:15)

Rachel brings up the common issue of copycats in the fashion industry. Fernando handles this topic with grace, expressing both understanding and strategic response.

“When Zara copies our designs, I choose to see it as a compliment while maintaining our unique price points and quality standards.”
— Fernando Garcia [39:59]

He emphasizes the importance of staying true to Monse’s vision and continuously innovating to stay ahead in the competitive market.

---

Vulnerability and Seeking Help (42:40 - 43:50)

Fernando touches on the significance of vulnerability in leadership and the courage it takes to seek help when needed.

“Vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength that invites collaboration and growth.”
— Fernando Garcia [42:40]

He encourages others in the industry to embrace vulnerability as a pathway to building meaningful relationships and achieving sustainable success.

---

Appreciation for Support Systems (43:50 - 48:54)

In the final segments, Fernando expresses heartfelt gratitude towards his support systems, including Rachel Zoe, Laura Kim, and key team members like Nikki Hilton. He acknowledges the collective effort that propels Monse forward and ensures its continued relevance and success.

“Our team is our backbone. Their unwavering support and creativity make everything we do possible.”
— Fernando Garcia [40:56]

---

Closing Remarks

Rachel wraps up the episode by celebrating Fernando’s achievements and the impactful work he and Laura are doing with Monse. She underscores the importance of vulnerability, teamwork, and continuous innovation as key takeaways from their conversation.

“Fernando, your journey is incredibly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story and for your unwavering dedication to empowering women through fashion.”
— Rachel Zoe [49:07]

Fernando echoes Rachel’s sentiments, emphasizing the ongoing journey and the exciting future ahead for Monse.

---

Key Takeaways

• Resilience and Adaptability: Fernando's transition from architecture to fashion underscores the importance of adaptability in pursuing one's passion.

• Mentorship and Team Dynamics: Strong mentorship and a collaborative team environment are crucial for personal and professional growth.

• Embracing Vulnerability: Being open and seeking help fosters stronger relationships and drives innovation within a team.

• Handling Competition Gracefully: Healthy competition can propel a team towards excellence when balanced with mutual respect and shared goals.

• Protecting Creativity: Staying true to one’s unique vision is essential in a competitive industry, even when facing imitation from larger brands.

---

Notable Quotes

“Vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength that invites collaboration and growth.”
— Fernando Garcia [42:40]

“Oscar had this incredible ability to see potential in sketches within seconds. It was both intimidating and inspiring.”
— Fernando Garcia [08:59]

“Our team is our backbone. Their unwavering support and creativity make everything we do possible.”
— Fernando Garcia [40:56]

“Fernando, your journey is incredibly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story and for your unwavering dedication to empowering women through fashion.”
— Rachel Zoe [49:07]

---

Conclusion

This episode of Climbing in Heels offers a profound look into Fernando Garcia’s influential role in shaping contemporary fashion at Oscar de la Renta and Monse. Through heartfelt storytelling and insightful discussions, Rachel Zoe and Fernando illuminate the essence of leadership, creativity, and the enduring impact of fostering strong, supportive relationships in the fashion industry.

Transcript

[T-Mobile Representative]

If you love your phone but not your carrier, just switch to T Mobile. You can keep your phone, keep your number and we'll help pay it off up to $800 per line. You can also use our savings calculator to compare our plans and streaming benefits against Verizon and AT&T. So switch and keep your phone, keep your number and keep more of your moolah. @t mobile.com up to 4 lines via virtual prepaid card.

[Apple Representative]

Allow 15 days qualifying unlock device, credit service port in 90 plus days with.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Device and eligible carrier and timely redemption required.

[Apple Representative]

Card has no cash access and expires in six months the Apple Watch Series 10 is here. It has the biggest display ever. It's also the thinnest Apple Watch ever, making it even more comfortable on your wrist whether you're running, swimming or sleeping. And it's the fastest charging Apple watch, getting you 8 hours of charge in just 15 minutes. The Apple Watch Series 10 available for the first time in glossy jet black aluminum compared to previous generations, iPhone Xs are later required. Charge time and actual results will vary.

[Disney Cruise Line Representative]

Sail to breathtaking destinations in Alaska or Europe with Disney Cruise Line. Discover where onboard magic meets onshore adventures, where beloved characters Hiya pal. Meet alluring landscapes, where Broadway quality shows meet historic cities, where imaginative dining meets amazing wildlife, and where exciting experiences await the whole family. Book an adventure filled summer Disney cruise to Alaska or Europe.

[Child of B2B Marketer]

My dad works in B2B marketing, but I never really knew what that meant. Then one day my dad came by my school for Career day and told everyone in my class he was a big Roaz man. Then he just kept saying things like the bigger the Roaz the better. Over and over. My friends still laugh at me to this day. I think it means calculating a return on ad spend. One thing's for sure, I'll be known as the Roazman's Kid for the rest of my days. Why couldn't you just be a fireman or a lawyer?

[Disney Cruise Line Representative]

Why?

[Child of B2B Marketer]

You ruined my life, dad.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Not everyone gets B2B, but LinkedIn has the people who do. And with ads on LinkedIn, you'll be able to reach people based on job title, industry, likelihood to buy, and more. Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. We'll even give you $100 credit on your next ad campaign. Go to LinkedIn.com customer to claim your credit. That's LinkedIn.com customer. Terms and conditions apply. LinkedIn the place to Be To Be.

[Matt]

Hey there, this is Matt and Joel.

[Joel]

From the how to Money podcast that's right.

[Matt]

Joel and I both love traveling with our families. Actually this past fall break from school, we took a trip to Cape San Blas down there in Florida with some of the families from the kids school. We all got our own Airbnbs. We had a great time.

[Joel]

I love staying in an Airbnb, Matt. Plus, while you're traveling, you could be hosting guests in your own home. Now with the Airbnb co host feature, hosting is easier than ever. You can access a network of high quality local co hosts in your area who can help you get your home ready for guests. Find a co [e-mail] host.

[Rachel Zoe]

Hi everyone.

[Fernando Garcia]

I'm Rachel Zoe and you're listening to Climbing in Heels for your weekly dose of glamour, inspiration and fun. I am so excited for this episode today because the brilliantly talented designer who is co creative director at the helm of Oscar de la Renta and monseigneur is on the podcast. Fernando Garcia entered the fashion world after studying architecture and within six years went from intern to senior designer at Oscar de la Renta. His success with creating Monse with co founder Laura Kim seems to be just the tip of the iceberg of what is to come for this fashion genius. I am such a fan of Fernando and his work and I'm so excited to share his story so far with all of you. So let's jump in with my very dear friend, my love, Fernando.

[Rachel Zoe]

So I probably should set this up for a second and basically tell you that you are the third ever male to grace the pod and I feel like climbing in hands.

[Apple Representative]

What do you have against males?

[Rachel Zoe]

You know, a lot. No, I'm just kidding. I'm actually kidding. You know, I love men. I like good men, great men. And I have been surrounded by many in my life and you know, I started climbing in heels because in fact, apropos of that, I have actually been surrounded by more great men than great women in my life who have been supportive of of me throughout my career. And climbing in heels is really just a way to celebrate and pay it forward to so many of the incredible women that I have in my life and men and really talk about the insane journeys to get to actually the top. And you are very young and you are at the top. I know you wouldn't say you're at the top and every day you say oh my God, I can't breathe. You have no idea what could happen.

[Apple Representative]

The core of me, I still do. I recently I feel blessed.

[Rachel Zoe]

But I would say to that that I think part of what makes you so successful is not taking for granted what's actually happening to you in real time.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah.

[Rachel Zoe]

And. But I want to talk first about how you even got to be Fernando because you were interning for someone that you are now at the helm of the brand of one of my favorite human beings, Oscar de la Renta, the king.

[Apple Representative]

You were part of my, like, raising up to that moment to be completely transparent. That's why when. When we met, I felt like we missed out on 10 years of friendship before, because I was right there with you in sentiment, with all of the moments that you and Oscar created together. I really was.

[Rachel Zoe]

Which is so wild because you never said anything. You never said anything.

[Apple Representative]

Like, I was a wide eyed intern. I was Delaware's Prada to the max in terms of soaking everything in and accepting that this is a world of people that are trailblazers and what they do, this, how they function. Oscar and me met in 2009, and because I came from the Dominican Republic.

[Rachel Zoe]

Also where he's from.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah. The Rayneri family is the family that founded Punta Cana. Whoever knows Punta Cana knows the Rainier family's legacy. They are some, like, they're the. One of the most hard working people I know in this entire planet, and they still are. And in the 90s, my dad and them and Frank, the founder, were very close and they grew up together and they were like kindred, you know, heartbreaking spirits. And so when I went to Notre Dame to study architecture, I said to my dad, because I was obsessed with everything that Alberto Baz was doing and Tom Ford and Oscar, I was like, you know what? I follow this world so much. I know that you want me to come back home to do the hardware company that you founded, but I want to give this one shot. And my dad said, I'm only letting you connect to the Rainier family, meaning the Punta Cana founders, the moment you have actual time to give to them instead of just like, you know, a summer here. So. So my. And in a way, my dad was like, stalling it to see if I like. Which is like, like, like stopped thinking, like, just kidding.

[Rachel Zoe]

This is.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah. And then I didn't. I didn't, like, take that. And so I decided, okay, here's my diploma. I was top four in Notre Dame. I'm very proud about that.

[Rachel Zoe]

That's insane, by the way.

[Apple Representative]

I am very proud about that. I was a straight A student to.

[Rachel Zoe]

Get, you know, so you're gorgeous and smart.

[Apple Representative]

I mean, I'll say this, I'm Much more hard working than smart. But I. I definitely felt the need to, you know, come to New York. New York City was something that I loved more than life and still do. And then this was a great, like, meeting of the two dreams that I had to be in New York City and to live the dream of being in a team of creative thinkers in the Oscar La Renta team. And when I met him, imagine me now. You know me.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yes.

[Apple Representative]

Imagine me at 20 years old, I'm 38 now, and showing up to Oscar's house in Punta Cana with a stack of my engineering and architecture and construction notebook textbooks, where I doodled in the back of all of them and said, this is all I know. And he just took one of them right from the top and said, oh, one, two. And then he pushed all of them aside. I think that now, looking back, he basically summarized what I knew from a few sketches, which I can. I can do today. Now, with my experience from some of the sketches that I see from new designers that come right when I work in our team, I understand the person, the aspirations from a few sketches. But at that time, I didn't know anything. I didn't know that he could figure that out in a second. And so when I let him do that, he took two seconds to look at it, and then he pushed everything aside, and I was like, oh, I think I. I think I don't have the job. Because he just, like, pushed everything to the side.

[Rachel Zoe]

It's like. And that's enough.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah. And so what he proceeded to do, because he just had a gut instinct about me, he was like, oh, this girl Laura. Laura is somebody that I think you should meet. She is very hardworking. She's been with me for a long time. She is very talented, and she is running my studio right now. And I was just like, in my head, the first time I meet Oscar, I'm like, I think I want to share more about you. Like, like, he spent the entire 30 minutes of our first meeting talking about Laura. And so I was just like, huh, this is interesting. So. But he had something in his head.

[Rachel Zoe]

About, yeah, yeah, of course. He was like, putting you together as, like, a duo.

[Apple Representative]

So he did. And so when I went to meet my father after the meeting, he was like, oh, Fernando, I think he should come intern with me. And so I went to New York City, like, the week after that, and then I met Laura, and Laura and I fell in love and worked together forever and ever.

[Rachel Zoe]

I cannot believe that. So. And what's wild, I was just Telling Mary, my producer, that the very last time I saw Oscar, you told me last year that you were there. The very last time I saw him, it was at his final show. Yeah, at the studio. Like that. You know that building, I think, on.

[Apple Representative]

42Nd, right between 11 West 42nd. That's my right now.

[Rachel Zoe]

Exactly.

[Apple Representative]

So our. Our. Our company took over that place, and out of fun, we took the under construction into introducing our Runway shows in there. But then we kept the venue even after the office were fully finished. So our showroom, where, like, we sell our clothes, became our actual Runway, which was, like, very interesting and fascinating because all of the teams had to, like, take up their desks for, like, a week and then move them out and put a Runway show right through there. And then the next day the buyers would come and it would be like, a little bit of a, like, weird vibe because, like, everybody's unsettled, like.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right. Of course. It's like the morning after the party, basically.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah, exactly.

[Rachel Zoe]

But I remember that night more than anything because the show, I think, was, like, at 5:00, and I was at my studio doing fittings, and I had, like, 20 models coming in for castings because my show is the next morning. And I remember looking at this girl on my team who I'm still very close with, and I looked at her and I said, I have to go. She said, what do you mean you have to go? She said, you can't go. There's 20 girls coming. You have all these fittings, we have tailors. I was like, I have to go.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah.

[Rachel Zoe]

And she said, why? And I said, I have a feeling. I said, first of all, I can't miss Oscar show. I said. And I weirdly, just. I don't know, it just might. You were there be the last time I see him. I don't know. And it was.

[Apple Representative]

I'll be completely frank with you. We didn't know it was going to be his last show.

[Rachel Zoe]

I felt it. Is that weird? I felt it. I said it to her.

[Apple Representative]

Funny that you say that. My parents obviously followed every single show and into as many as they could. And because Laura and I were in, like, the deep, like, trenches.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah.

[Apple Representative]

You don't really pay attention to any.

[Rachel Zoe]

Kind of, like, human response.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah. Yeah. This person is at the very last end.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah.

[Apple Representative]

It was a very big shock when he passed away for Laura and me, like, even though we knew he was going through a lot of, like, chemo, we were. I will speak for myself. I was a complete wreck for a month. And I will Never forget being in Italy and being like, I flew to Italy with Laura because that's what we do every time we have a collection, we go there and see the tailoring that we're developing for daywear. And I still remember being in. Because we work in Naples, we went to Capri, and we're at our hotel that we stay there just to, like, have a weekend stay. And I remember the day that happened, and I felt it in my gut that it was going to happen that day. Yeah, it was intense. It was intense.

[Rachel Zoe]

It was intense.

[Apple Representative]

I was in touch with everybody in the house, where he was, where he passed. It was emotional.

[Rachel Zoe]

He was like this surreal figure in my life that was this kind gentleman and so talented. And I remember him saying how much he loved to sketch, and he would show me his sketches, and he would say, I don't ever not want to do this. The last time I saw him, and I was so glad that I. That I did. And I remember he was leaning against the window when I came backstage and saw him after the show, and I wasn't going to, because I was in a hurry. And I said, let me just go give him a kiss. Let me just go talk to him. And he was very weak, and there was a lot of people around him. And I left there going, thank God. I just went, yeah. And I remember in my peripheral, because when you told me, I remember you and Laura kind of like, he was, like, to the left, like you were. You guys were like, back by that column, you know, behind the stage. But I didn't know you, which was so weird.

[Apple Representative]

And you remembered that.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah, I remember where you were standing. And it's very strange, because when I met you, I remember the first time, it was sort of like I knew you for 10 years. There was some part of my life that you were in, and I hadn't physically met you. So then when we finally connected, it was like, okay, we're in love now. We're best friends for life, and let's just talk.

[Apple Representative]

I think that he definitely understood the electricity that your personality and mind, Laura, have. So, obviously, he was a very good curator of people that would get along with each other, and it was seamless to me. As soon as I met you, I'm like, oh, I feel like I've known you for a decade.

[Rachel Zoe]

That's what I'm saying. It's so weird.

[Apple Representative]

No, he knew what he was doing.

[Rachel Zoe]

Well, he knew what he was doing because look at you now.

[Apple Representative]

I. He had. He had a gut feeling about the fire Sagittarius in me that Martha was celebrating as.

[Rachel Zoe]

So wait, did everyone hear that he just went to a Sagittarius lunch with the queen Martha Stewart? We didn't hear that. We need to embrace that.

[Apple Representative]

I think that that's like a badge of honor that I will never forget.

[Rachel Zoe]

I sat next to her at a dinner and almost died. I sat next to a years ago. Now, I like, I think we say hi to each other, but I still will always reintroduce myself.

[Apple Representative]

I mean, I. By the way, you know what's funny is I always reintroduce myself to people that I don't believe I'm friends with. And so guess who's in my floor is Michael Kors. And, you know, he's like, sweetheart, but.

[Rachel Zoe]

Sweetest person in the world.

[Apple Representative]

I know, but, like, I'm 38 and I'm still, in my mind, an intern at Oscar's company. Right? I really, really am.

[Rachel Zoe]

Can I say something, Fernando? I'm still 22, crashing Jacob's show.

[Apple Representative]

Honestly, I buy Laura coffee every single day because I am, in my mind, her intern still, so. And I still do, but she's so cute. So when I see Michael in the elevator, every time I see him in the elevator, I'm like, hi, I'm Fernando. And he's like, I know who you are.

[Rachel Zoe]

He sounds just like with his sunglasses on and the tan and the t. I know.

[Fernando Garcia]

This episode is brought to you by ebay. Whatever you love, find it on eBay. EBay. Things people love. I'm going to tell you something that will not shock you. I always wear heels. I mean, you're listening to my podcast called Climbing in Heels, so. Yeah. But truthfully, I find heels are way easier for me to style. And of course, I love the extra height that they give me. Being vertically challenged. One of the true ironies of my life is that now I have preteen boys that are obsessed with sneakers. When I say obsessed, I mean they track every brand and every new drop like their life depends on it. My oldest son, sky, is constantly sending me links and DMS with the latest and greatest pairs. I, however, recently discovered the massive selection of sneakers on ebay. With just a simple ebay search, I was able to find incredibly rare and collectible pairs as well as sneakers that were just released. If you would have told me 15 years ago that I'd be searching for not just flats, but sneakers online, I would not have ever believed you. And don't even get me started on the collector's cases. Some of these shoes are in some of my most precious couture gowns don't even have the beautiful storage that these sneakers have. Anyway, if you're a mom battling preteen or teenage kids about footwear, ebay really has your back. My boys have birthdays coming up, and I am so excited to surprise them this year with matching pairs of limited edition sneakers that they both love. I consider it a win anytime they let me dress them these days. So thank you, ebay, for making me the cool mom for now. We've all got a thing and it's on ebay. Maybe it's scoring all the vintage finds, building an entire wall of sneakers, or hunting down a deal on that designer bag. So go find the thing. Like the rare sneakers that will make you mom of the year. Whatever you love, find it on ebay. Ebay. Things people love.

[Rachel Zoe]

I can't. But Fernando, so what? So tell me a little bit about, like. So you started as an intern. You obviously built your way up. You've worked your ass off the old fashioned way. You have the fire and the passion. And I think that's part of why I love you so much is because I don't think that's ever going to change. I think you'll be 65 doing this, and you'll still have that.

[Apple Representative]

Oscar never wanted to retire, and I understand it now.

[Rachel Zoe]

No, he didn't. But, you know, but, but you have done different things throughout the last, you know, 10 years or more, whatever it is. But like, so I want to talk about that because I want to talk a little bit about how tremendously scary this business can be.

[Apple Representative]

And you know, it's not that scary.

[Rachel Zoe]

Well, it can be though.

[Apple Representative]

I mean, for people that don't know where they want to go in fashion, it absolutely should be scary.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right? Right.

[Apple Representative]

And you knew, and that's why you are where you are.

[Rachel Zoe]

But, but, but I was driven a lot by fear of failure.

[Apple Representative]

Sure.

[Rachel Zoe]

And I know that you have that.

[Apple Representative]

Failure is a big motivator for sure. Also, you know what a big motivator is? Competition. Yes, Laura and me met and yes, we fell in love in every way. And Oscar knew what he was doing because he was not just gaining a lovely relationship and his team, but gaining two fierce competitors that wanted to outdo each other every single season. So every single season, Laura and I would like, just like, want to, like, up like one another. And so, And Laura is really competitive, just like me. And so whenever. And we still.

[Rachel Zoe]

She's a quiet competitive, though bitch.

[Apple Representative]

Excuse me, I didn't say she, no.

[Rachel Zoe]

That'S not just none of the C.

[Apple Representative]

Word is that she is a serious one that comes across as like a sweet little angel. And as soon as you get in the trenches with her, you realize that, oh, okay, so she means business. Like, I don't have the best selling dress this season, then I'm in the dust. I don't matter to her as much. So. And it motivated me because I am not a business minded person in a couple of ways. So it taught me to be one because of her.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right.

[Apple Representative]

And so now her, our team, we are all like looking to. And even in the team now, I'm noticing the pattern repeating itself. Like, the team is like, okay, so this is what, you know is the top dog strategy. You have to like, have the best seller dress, also the big red carpet moment. Like, how do you have a combination of things? And so all of that mattered and it made us better. It made us chisel our, you know, knife and become stronger designers.

[Rachel Zoe]

You know, it's kind of funny because I think you guys have this very kind, competitive relationship, which is very rare though. That's very rare.

[Apple Representative]

We're on the same team, but we are definitely always competing. All of us in fashion are always competing. But you just have to have your heart, like, be very, like, clear and transparent. Everybody's motives are going to be, like, very, like, noticeable. As soon as you enter a team, you notice what the people's priorities are in the team. And so once you align everybody's, like, priorities, you really excel. And I'll give Laura credit. Laura aligned the team after two or three years in a really impressive way, having an understanding of everybody's priorities and the team, no matter how old or young they are, everybody has to be aligned and focused on a goal. So I think that she deserves a lot of credit for that. She helped the team align itself.

[Rachel Zoe]

Now, how do you decide? Because so much of what people know you for and knew Oscar for is the red carpet. Right. But the other thing is that I think many people don't know is just one of the things I loved most about Oscar that I love most about you as well, is your love of women. Your love of making women actually feel, look and feel their absolutely most glamorous, most beautiful. But to your credit, you have taken the reins at Oscar with Laura and made it incredibly modern and your own. And that is not easy. It's not easy and there's a huge expectation. And, you know, Oscar has had customers that have been Oscar customers and clients for what, 50 years? Yeah, more More. And so how is that in terms of, like, pressure? Because the reality of it is you have had more hits on the biggest stars in the world over even since I've known you. Really, over the last few years, it's like one after the other after the other. And icons like Sarah Jessica, Taylor Swift, I mean, Selena Gomez, nonstop. Nicole Kidman, I mean, it goes on. This is like the dream, Fernando. It used to only be European designers, and every once in a while, an American designer would have that moment. You are having moment after moment after moment after moment. That is not easy.

[Apple Representative]

Thank you for that huge badge.

[Rachel Zoe]

I mean it.

[Apple Representative]

I don't take it lightly, especially coming from you who find the reason I probably became gay. I mean, Cameron Diaz, the Met gala with the turquoise necklace, forget it.

[Rachel Zoe]

I'm like the hot pink Dior still will always be one of my favorite movies.

[Apple Representative]

Iconic. So to answer your question, it's not overnight, Right. First of all, I didn't join Oscar thinking I was going to become creative director of Oscar.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right.

[Apple Representative]

Oscar thinking I'm the luckiest Dominican boy in the world and I'm going to work my way up somehow and make him happy. And to me and Laura going home for six years as his assistants and making him smile from one dress in that one month that to us was.

[Rachel Zoe]

You'Re winning, you're winning.

[Apple Representative]

That was as simple as that. So I want to give everybody perspective to understand that the pressure that I feel today is a pressure that was built through time to have me tolerate it. So the pressure to make him smile was my first pressure. Then after that, other pressures, you know, surmounted themselves on top of me. So everything that you all see me and my team doing to me now after 15 years, is a lot lighter than probably from somebody from the outside that thinks that, like, oh, this is, like, what they must be, like, dying right now. No.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right.

[Apple Representative]

Like, we really have worked our way up to understanding the expectations and understanding what the talent wants to perceive themselves as through the public lines. So in a way, I have also become a little bit of a therapist, because you know that very well. Yeah. So you understand that when I meet somebody, they, funny enough, you know, me, they are nervous.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah.

[Apple Representative]

They think, oh, he.

[Rachel Zoe]

That you're going to be whatever.

[Apple Representative]

Whatever the impression is. And I'm just like. I, like, break them down and I figure out what is going to make them the most comfortable, vulnerable, susceptible to my words or my personality so that they can become their truest self in the moment that I need them. Why? Because I need them to Be that way throughout the process of my creating a metcala moment for them. Yeah.

[Rachel Zoe]

Because the wedding dress.

[Apple Representative]

Which one?

[Rachel Zoe]

Or a wedding dress, like in Paris.

[Apple Representative]

Or when doing a Mom Clooney's wedding dress was. As Oscar's assistant. Even though I was doing a lot of the heavy lifting, Amal Clooney did rely on Oscar and me and Laura to. To come up with something that was, you know, worthy of that big moment on stage. Right. And crazy. I was 26 when this was all going on, and I was noticing how Oscar maneuvered the situations and how he handled himself, and I learned a lot from him during that period. And that's because. And from that point on, Amal Clooney and I kind of, like, had this, like. It's not a battle scar, but it's just like, she and I, like, have.

[Rachel Zoe]

This, like, it's like trauma bonding.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah. We bonded from that. Like, so when I was developing Monse, I was, like, you know, scared. I was like, I'm all like, I don't know what to do. Like, should we do a show here? Should we do this? And she's like, where are you? And I'm like, oh, I'm in Italy right now. I'm developing the first Monte collection ever. And this is in 2015. And so she's like, oh, I'm in Como. I'm like, oh, I'm in Milan. And she's like, come over, Rachel. And Amal knows how much I love this memory. It was incredible. And she was like, show me all of your sketches. I want to see the first Lanzi collection. I still remember that moment, like, yesterday, because I arrived to the house, and I got to the living room of her home in Como, and I am showing her all the sketches on the floor. The dogs were licking me. It was adorable. And then she was like, let's go have lunch outside. And I'm like, okay.

[Rachel Zoe]

Where?

[Apple Representative]

I'm like, in my head, I'm like, is this real? And then she took me to the courtyard, and I noticed that there's high trenches because paparazzi, so they can't really, like, have, like, this glorious view. Which broke my heart a little bit. But then. Yeah, but then I was just like, okay, so let's go have some food. And she's like, oh, George arrived. And I'm like, what? And he shows up. I'm not going to repeat what he said, but it was really funny. And the bodyguard was next to me, and I was probably, like, considered, like, a threat because I was like, a brand new person in Mall's life in their eyes. But George was really sweet because he was sweet. He was just, like, asking me the importance of, you know, the red carpet moments that we do with them all and understanding world that we're in and the influence that they have on the world and inquisitive and interested and fun.

[Rachel Zoe]

And it's good that in those moments you can recognize it's a pinch me surreal moment. It's good that you can do that.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah.

[Rachel Zoe]

I mean, you know, I think I made the mistake of never recognizing those moments until now when people ask me about them and I'm like, right, that. Yes, that did happen. Because in my mind, the moments are more those moments of, like, seeing Oscar for the last time or the first time. He took me to a studio and showed me his sketches. And, you know, with Karl Lagerfeld, those were my moments. So let's talk about Monse for a second because what. In what life and what planet while you're at Oscar de la Renta, do you look at Lara and say, hey, let's start another brand. Let's start our own. Because I just. I need to just like, sort of paint the picture. Because what you're doing at Oscar and arguably one of the biggest, most recognized, highly regarded houses in America, for sure, and throughout the world, but that in and of itself is how many collections a year?

[Apple Representative]

It's four for Oscar, four for Monse, two bridal. And at this point, the VIP list used to be me doing red carpet moments, meaning the sex a year. Right now, the IP list, basically, we're doing couture without people knowing Couture.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right, Right.

[Apple Representative]

And it's fabulous.

[Rachel Zoe]

It's like closet couture.

[Apple Representative]

It's closeted couture. It's Fernando circa 2014 couture.

[Rachel Zoe]

So really, like, what triggers you at that point to be like, like, this isn't enough. I need to start our own line. We need to start another brand.

[Apple Representative]

It wasn't that, to be quite honest, we. We didn't know what Oscar's health was going to end up like. And Laura and I were thinking about our future next right outside of the brand. And Laura and I also needed to, like, understand who we were as designers outside of the brand.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yes.

[Apple Representative]

So it wasn't that we wanted to, like, add on. It was that we needed to, like, scratch an itch.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah.

[Apple Representative]

And. And it also was really, like, formative. We needed to learn who we were outside of a big umbrella corp, so to speak, and understand what. What the world was like when you have to fend for yourself. And we did have to fend for ourselves for two years. We figured out what their brass tax reality was for the majority of designers that want to start for scratch. And so I think that it made us the designers that we are today. I don't think that, I don't think that Oscar was wrong in thinking that we needed a little bit more growth. But we got it where we got it and it was necessary.

[Rachel Zoe]

And also it's a very different language. Monse vs Oscar de la Rent. It's a totally different being.

[Apple Representative]

Well, because we had to figure out a new DNA after, you know, his passing. It was important to us and we consulted a couple of people. We consulted Kate Young, we consulted sex buying team. Very important minded people that, that saw our trajectory as assistant Oscar and knew what we wanted. And so they were trying to like guide us as to like making a name for ourselves in a very independent, isolated, unassociated to Oscar wing.

[Rachel Zoe]

So it's so unbelievably impressive. And so now one thing I really want to talk to you about is because it's something we see so often in so many industries from food to beauty and certainly to fashion. And you and I have talked about this, you know, two, three in the morning on text. How do you handle copycats?

[Child of B2B Marketer]

My dad works in B2B marketing, but I never really knew what that meant. Then one day my dad came by my school for career day and told everyone in my class he was a big Roaz man. Then he just kept saying things like the bigger the roas, the better. Over and over. My friends still laugh at me to this day. I think it means calculating a return on ad spent. One thing's for sure, I'll be known as the Roaz man's kid for the rest of my days. Why couldn't you just be a fireman or a lawyer?

[Disney Cruise Line Representative]

Why?

[Child of B2B Marketer]

You ruined my life, dad.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Not everyone gets B2B. But LinkedIn has the people who do. And with ads on LinkedIn, you'll be able to reach people based on job title, industry likelihood to buy, and more. Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. We'll even give you $100 credit on your next ad campaign. Go to LinkedIn.com customer to claim your credit. That's LinkedIn.com customer. Terms and conditions apply. LinkedIn. The place to be to be.

[Vanta Representative]

Trust isn't just earned, it's demanded. Whether you're a startup founder navigating your first audit or a seasoned security professional scaling your GRC program. Proving your commitment to security has never been more critical or more complex. That's where Vanta comes in. Businesses use Vanta to establish trust by automating compliance needs. Over 35 frameworks like SOC2 and ISO 27001 centralize security workflows, complete questionnaires up to five times faster, and proactively manage vendor risk. Vanta can help you start or scale your security program by connecting you with auditors and experts to conduct your audit and set up your security program quickly. Plus, with automation and AI throughout the platform, Vanta gives you time back so you can focus on building your company. Join over 9,000 global companies like Atlassian, Quora and Factory who use Vanta to manage risk and prove security in real time. For a limited time, our audience gets $1,000 off [e-mail] special. That's V A N T A dot com special for $1,000 off hey, it's.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this new year, make sure you take some time to take care of yourself and your family. Now through January 28th, save up to 25% on all your favorite personal care essentials. Shop in store or online and stock up on all your favorite items like Tresemme Shampoo, Axe Deodorant, Dove Bar Soap, Dove Men's Body Wash, and Dove Dry Spray. And Save up to 25%. Offer ends January 28th. Restrictions apply. Promotions may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Disney Cruise Line Representative]

Hi friend, it's your inner child calling and they want churros, a new toy and a new adventure. Or maybe five with the bestest besties on Earth. Find your moment at Walt Disney World Resort.

[Matt]

Hey there, this is Matt and Joel.

[Joel]

We're from how to Money.

[Apple Representative]

That's right.

[Joel]

Yeah.

[Matt]

If you've been listening to our show, then you know how much we love to trav, especially if it's somewhere out there in nature.

[Joel]

Joel that's right, Matt. You had a great trip out to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia this past fall.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah, I did.

[Matt]

It was a quick weekend getaway with a fam, but we had an amazing time. We found this incredible cabin on Airbnb right on the river. The water, it was so clean and clear. The kids were out there building a little peninsula out into the river. I actually did a few morning cold plunges out there, which the kids definitely passed on. But we hiked together during the day, sat by the fire pit at night, made s'mores. It was beautiful, man.

[Joel]

Only I had Been invited. You know, whenever I'm traveling and find the perfect place to stay on Airbnb, I always think of what a smart idea it is to become a host. You let someone else enjoy all the wonderful parts of your home while you're not using it, and it's a great way to make some extra money. That's right.

[Matt]

And even if you're not traveling but have a spare bedroom sitting empty, you can also host guests in that extra room. It's easy to do and a great way to make the most of your home.

[Joel]

And now, with the co host feature, Airbnb gives you access to a network of high quality local co hosts who can help take care of your home and guests when you're not there. They manage reservations and provide on site support. When you can't be there, find a co [e-mail] host.

[Apple Representative]

The last time I remember that is when Zara copied Monserrat. Beginning of our deconstructing of shirts.

[Rachel Zoe]

Mm.

[Apple Representative]

I don't think that there's anything else to say but to be flattered by it because the price points are very different and it doesn't affect your business to a. To a, you know, detrimental.

[Rachel Zoe]

So how do you continue to keep everything new and fresh? And what's so interesting is I did not know that you studied architecture, because that tracks, by the way.

[Apple Representative]

Okay.

[Rachel Zoe]

Because so much of your most recent collections. I've seen so much of that. I've seen so much architecture.

[Apple Representative]

I think that what Laura and I do, because, you know, our lives are extremely busy.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yes.

[Apple Representative]

Is be surrounded by the people that we want to address. And, you know, Nikki, as you know, is my best friend. Absolutely.

[Rachel Zoe]

Nikki Hilton.

[Apple Representative]

Yeah, she. She.

[Rachel Zoe]

You guys are the cutest best friends, by the way.

[Apple Representative]

Well, she takes care of us and we love her. But I do want to give credit to the, to the girls in my life, like you, like Nikki, like Laura, that keep my head on my shoulders.

[Rachel Zoe]

We all made it.

[Apple Representative]

And it's beautiful and hilarious and fun.

[Rachel Zoe]

And you. There is no one that can make me literally laugh out loud at two in the morning out of a dead sleep. Then you. It will literally, like, give me life when I need it the most. You know, I just want to say that I love you madly. I love everything you've done. I love how you've built it humble brick by humble brick. I love that you have your confidence now, but you still still feel 22. In some ways, I am. I also think you're. You're dressing the best. And, you know, I Think keeping that humility is a superpower. I really do.

[Apple Representative]

Well, I will say this. When Laura and I left Oscar, I. I noticed something that was a great and very valuable calling card that I recommend anybody who is starting something from scratch do. Vulnerability is something that I didn't understand, was not just attractive, but welcoming to. To personal, like, relationships or business opportunities. It is extremely attractive because people feel like you're. They're about to join something important in someone's life.

[Rachel Zoe]

Yeah.

[Apple Representative]

So as soon as I discovered that, I was, like, without any shame, knocking on a few doors and being like, hey, we just left Oscar. We want to figure this out. Help us. Saying the words help us is something I cannot say enough and recommend to people because, yeah, you definitely have to have a track record, right? You have to have, like, a little bit of a reputation to, like, earn the. Okay, I'll help you, sure. But. But. But you will be surprised how many people are so, like, hard on themselves about asking for help.

[Rachel Zoe]

Of course. No, I mean, I think that's actually the hardest thing to do.

[Apple Representative]

It's crazy. People ask for, like, don't want to ask for help. There's absolutely, like, a ton of reasons why they don't want to, but they don't.

[Rachel Zoe]

I would agree with that very much. I think it makes them feel less than or that they haven't achieved any.

[Apple Representative]

Success or something is there. And me and Laura were like, no, no problem asking, help us.

[Rachel Zoe]

I mean, and it worked. And I think you're doing it, and I think your relationship is amazing, and I think I'm very excited to just continue to see what you guys do. I mean, I love it. I'm, like, standing here with pom poms, like, cheering you guys on in every dress and every collection, and you're so adored. You are so adored. For me, it's the thing that always attracted me the most to Oscar was how he spoke to women and how he treated women and how he. He listened to them. And that's what you guys are doing. That's what you're doing. Like, I see you when you're working with someone, whether it's Paris or Taylor Swift or Selena Gomez or any of these people. Jessica Chastain, like, you are like, I have to see what she wants. I don't know. She. I don't know if that color she made that may be too similar. I don't know if this is going to. You know, it's like that.

[Apple Representative]

I seriously, like, think, like, you might want me to. Like, there's moments where I'm like sketching something like, oh, Elizabeth Stewart is going to probably want me to do this. Like, right. Seriously have moments where I think about the people that got us here.

[Rachel Zoe]

Let's talk about stylists for one minute because. Or two, because I want to talk about it. I'm going to take my stylist hat off, but I want to talk about that because you work with so many stylists and I know you do, and you have an appreciation for them rather than a. There are many designers that are resentful about stylists. There are some that love them and there are some that hate them.

[Apple Representative]

So I'm going to give you some perspective. I came to Oscar before stylists were, to be honest, cool. The first one that like broke my thinking of how important they are to the business was Kate Young.

[Rachel Zoe]

Right.

[Apple Representative]

I saw the resilience of her clients throughout my career and learned a lot about the psychology that goes into creating something for somebody in a really like pressure filled moment from Kate after that, Priscilla Ehrlich and, you know, Andrew McColl and all these other amazingly talented people that in a way are like therapists. They are, yeah, they are psychologists. They are there to understand the level of impact that they need to deliver, also the influence that they want to cast upon the fans that that person has. Like, and by the way, that fluctuates every, every client wants to go up or down or medium and they do mean medium sometimes. So it's, it's an, it was an incredible learning experience during the most like, like soaking moments of Fernando's twenties. So I learned a lot about that psychology through the people that, you know, deliver the moments that everybody remembers from a brand outside of like, you know, selling a lot of clothes to customers that are loyal to us and deserve all of our attention. The loudest voices are the San Jessica Parker's for Sex and the City for brands like mine. I don't even have words like meeting her when Oscar did her last met gala moment and she poured herself on the floor of the office with a binder that she herself came with of all the Charles James references, because that's who we were celebrating at that moment. It taught me that, you know, no matter what, how complicated or how busy your life is in fashion, everybody does get wrapped up into all of that. But when you see somebody that is as passionate as Sarah Jessica throwing herself on the floor with a binder of pictures that she herself researched and in her closet where she has a bin of ribbons, like, we go way back and I inherited that relationship like an idiot. But she truly does matter for culture. She matters for fashion. And she is somebody who has always upheld it in a very respectful, intelligent, researched way. I. I don't think that there's enough of Sarah Jessica in the world.

[Rachel Zoe]

There aren't. There are not. There are not. I mean, I hope that there will be, but there are. Not now, but I think. I don't know, it's just. It's such a beautiful thing. And I. I love that relationship. And I cannot wait to see you keep doing what you do. I love you so much. I love seeing your love for women. I love seeing your love for creating for women and creating these magic moments.

[Apple Representative]

I don't have to disappear for, from, from the entire planet for the next two months.

[Rachel Zoe]

So, I mean, well, I'm gonna hunt you down and I'm gonna blow up your phone.

[Apple Representative]

I know you.

[Rachel Zoe]

I am. I love you so much.

[Fernando Garcia]

Thank you so much to Fernando for coming on the pod today. He is truly brilliant. He is so beyond talented. And he designs not only with his talent, of course, and his skill, but with his heart and with a huge admiration and respect for women, with humility, with humor. He is so incredibly funny. He's the most fun to go out with. And I know he has truly just begun. His statement that vulnerability is attractive is really inspiring because I think it really is very true. And I think asking for help is an important reminder and lesson for everyone to take from this episode, including me. Because I think we have so much ego and so much shame in asking for help. And so I loved that moment amongst many. I loved this episode so much and I love you, Fernando. Thank you so much for listening to Climbing in Heels. If you haven't already, please subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the Iheart app or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss a single episode this season. And be sure to follow me on Instagram at Rachelzo and the show at Climbing in Heels Pod for the latest episode and updates. I will talk to you soon.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this new year. Make sure you take some time to take care of yourself and your family. Stock up on your favorite personal care Items now through January 28th and earn four times the points to use towards discounts on groceries or fuel. Shop in store, online or in the app for items like Pantene shampoo, Old Spice body Wash, campers, Swaddlers, diapers, Venus razors and Crest Complete toothpaste. And earn four times points on your purchase offer. Ends January 28th. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Disney Cruise Line Representative]

Sail to breathtaking destinations in Alaska or Europe with Disney Cruise Line. Discover where onboard magic meets onshore adventures, where beloved characters Hiya pal. Meet alluring landscapes, where Broadway quality shows meet historic cities, where imaginative dining meets amazing wildlife and where exciting experiences await the whole family. Book an adventure filled summer Disney cruise to Alaska or Europe at David's Bridal.

[Rachel Zoe]

Love is in every stitch, from the initial sketch to the final details. Each style is designed with exquisite craftsmanship. Every every wedding gown, bridesmaid look, prom dress and special occasion style in between features handcrafted details filled with love. Come see the magic in person. Book an appointment and sign up for diamond loyalty to save 15% on your first purchase.

[Apple Representative]

Earn points towards special rewards and [e-mail].

[T-Mobile Representative]

Amazon Pharmacy presents Painful Thoughts the guy.

[Apple Representative]

In front of me in the pharmacy.

[Matt]

Line is halfway through an incredibly detailed 17 minute story about his gout.

[Apple Representative]

A story likely more painful than the gout itself.

[Vanta Representative]

Next time, save yourself the pain and.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Let Amazon Pharmacy deliver your meds right to your door. Amazon Pharmacy Healthcare just got less painful. Whether you're ordering wings for the game.

[Apple Representative]

Whipping up a seven layer dip, or ordering pizza, there's something about football that makes you want to eat. And this football season, Uber Eats has the best deals on game day food.

[T-Mobile Representative]

No matter what you're craving, from two for one Pizza. To buy one, get one Wings. Uber Eats will be dropping new deals.

[Apple Representative]

Each week all season long.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Uber Eats official on demand delivery partner of the NFL. Order Now. Terms and conditions apply.

[Apple Representative]

See app for details.