I’m Ella Nassauer, a young designer who recently graduated from VCUarts with a BFA in Fashion Design and a minor in Fashion Merchandising. My work has received numerous recognitions including the Cotton Inc. Critic’s Choice Award, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts VCU Student Scholarship Award.

The goal of my work is to evoke honesty and rawness, expressed through the use of natural fibers, intricate draping, and neutral color palettes. I have a deep passion for materials and craftsmanship, and an affinity for wool, silk, and cotton. My exposure to raw materials occurred through my Textile Sales Merchandising Internship with Tollegno 1900 in New York, which deepened my knowledge and appreciation for wool. I ultimately strive to create garments that prioritize quality and longevity. I believe the craftsmanship and labor invested into the garments I create should be visible, and often leave exposed hand stitching and thread tracing as a testament to my process. I hope to continue exploring these ideas in my career, with a goal of contributing to a more sustainable and conscientious fashion industry.