What was the inspiration behind your Fall 2011 Collection?

Philip Guston, particularly his paintings in the late 60s abstract deep palette. I was inspired by the colors he used during that period and wanted to complement the darkness with amazing luxurious, textured fabrics and very feminine details.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to dress?

I would love to help elevate the first lady of Mexico’s black tie options.

We notice you have a lot of beautiful gowns in your Spring as well as Fall 2011 collections. Could we see a bridal collection in the near future?

The collection keeps developing and yes, I see wedding dresses in the very near future as part of my collection. Many customers have approached me, and I have several wedding gowns orders for this coming Spring/Summer.

What is the first feeling you have when your fashion show is over?

Accomplishment. There is a tremendous amount of constant pressure gearing up to the show, but the adrenaline is there keeping you going – from the moment you send the first model onto the runway to the finale. It is the best feeling in the world.

What is the most comfortable outfit for yourself?

I used to dress up more, but these days and definitely pre-fashion show date, I can be seen in a pair of beat-up jeans, comfortable boots and a cashmere sweater.

What’s your favorite part of Fashion Week?

The women. They get all excited, creative and entitled. They own the streets during fashion week. I love that!

Tell us one thing you look forward to everyday as a designer.

Coming to my studio to create.

What’s next on the horizon for you? When do you start working on Spring 2012?

I have had many special requests for one-of-a-kind designs. I see myself spending part of my time with private clients, including very special wedding designs. The preparation for Spring 2011 has started. My mind starts running – literally – the day after the show.

The hair and make up were very strong for your Fall 2011 show. What was it like working with such talents like Joey from Mac and Patrick Neville on just your second runway show?

Hair and makeup are such important elements for a show. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with both amazing talents. I think having their expertise made my collection come alive exactly the way I envisioned it. I had an original idea, they both listened to me, looked at the collection, and together, we came up with a look that balanced the perfect amount of chic. Their work complimented the collection and the strong beautiful women who carried the clothes.

For more on Rolando Santana and his newest collections, see his Web site. Follow him on Twitter @rolando_santana.

Photos: Eka Halim

J.Crew

Devi Kroell

J. Mendel

Hermes

Barneys New York

Bergdorf Goodman

LINK LOVE:*SUNDAY WINDOW SHOPPING* Madison Ave. (June '10)

Urban Outfitters, Inc. is set to launch a bridal apparel website, dresses will be created by Anthropologie’s design team and other guest designers, offering bridesmaids’ dresses, jewelry, shoes, accessories and invitations.

LINK LOVE: WWD

Giambattista Valli has joined a growing band of designers saying “I do” to bridalwear. After receiving personal requests for wedding dresses, Giambattista Valli is now preparing to release a collection of wedding dresses which will go into stores alongside Valli’s cruise collection in November, with prices ranging from $11,000 to $16,000.

“I’m getting married!” joked the designer at an exclusive preview of his new, relatively classic, wedding line here. A surge in requests, including from the just-married Clementina Montezemolo, prompted the line’s creation, he said.

I for one can’t wait, love him and his aesthetic. Wish I heard about this before I bought my wedding dress, although I wouldn’t be able to afford the steep price tag.

Source: Fabulousness