Rucht D'Oleo Schwartz / Fashion Institute of South Florida

How did you become a designer?

Since I was a little girl, I love to play with fabrics and design and sew. I also illustrated dolls wearing beautiful gowns. When I finished high school, I enrolled in fashion school.

How long have you been in the industry?

29 years.

Do you have a back story about your business? How many years?

I had my clothing line here in Miami, designing and producing styles in woven fabrics. As we grew, I noticed how hard it was to get skilled seamstress and pattern makers. That is why I decided to open the school; to train and teach anyone interested in learning the technical area of the industry. Four years ago.

What Makes your business different than others? How do you stand out?

We are a vocational school that cares about each student and provide them with personal attention. Also, because different than colleges, we offer “Short Fashion Courses” for individuals that want to learn a specific area of the fashion industry.

What was one of the most challenging / creative jobs you have ever done?

The most challenging was and still is to do the administrative task for my business. The most creative, I think was making my own wedding gown.

What Do you do to keep up with the industry?

I read, network, and get involved in locally and internationally events as most as I can.

What is new and exciting for 2021?

The remodeling and expanding of the school physical facilities.

What do you like best about WAWAK?

What I like the best about WAWAK because designers, seamstresses, pattern makers; tailors, and dry cleaners can get everything we need in one place. Plus, Wawak’s customer service is the best.

When it comes to your company, waht are you most proud of?

The success of my students.

When advice do you give to the next generation of designers?

To take the time and invest in learning and developing their professional as well as personal skills every day.

What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop?

The same as I advise my students: every day I am, I invest in my professional and personal growth.