Michelle Del Rio

I’m Michelle Del Rio, a designer with an eponymous label. I also work in marketing and casting to support my brand, and I have a background in architecture. I hated it because of all of the rules—rules that don’t apply in fashion. I have a hard time with anything “perfect” or “balanced,” and I don’t find conventional beauty beautiful. Beauty, for me, is something off-centered. Something that doesn’t make sense but does make sense. Art, though, I have to eat every day for breakfast! Whether through music, going to see performances, or historical research—it’s essential that I digest as much as I can.

I live in New York City now but I’m originally from Ventura, California. During my childhood, there were difficult times but I don’t regret any; they shaped the person I am today. As did my mom, who is a warrior, and my brother, who is a healer. They have taught me everything I know, shown me how to understand the world through a humble lens, and kept me grounded through rough times.

They are the most meaningful part of my life. I also find meaning in empathy and alone time. Empathy gives me perspective when getting to know and understand someone, and alone time reflecting and having moments to myself keeps me afloat. I’m a loner at heart, but I’m trying to not be so shy in social settings.