Carmen González - GONZALES

15 August 2016

Born on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria, Carmen González studied at the German School of Applied Arts and Design in Hamburg.

After receiving her diploma in illustration and fashion design she cut her teeth on a variety of experiences. She initially started out in the world of show business as a costume designer for German film and theatre and then as an illustrator in print media, before using her skills as a designer to create a small ready-to-wear collection. It was, however, during 2006 that she set off on her most important journey: the launch of her own label, Gonzales, which closes the gap between her ready-to-wear and lingerie lines.

She developed a strong and unique sense of style and fashion during her graphic illustration and fine arts training, thus allowing her to breathe life into her high-end lingerie pieces. These items have a strong identity and are able to enhance the elegance, sensuality and eroticism of every woman all while complementing their natural curves. González employs the best European materials for her lingerie, which are created in her own atelier in the capitol of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas and in some small boutiques in Barcelona. She loves and designs for liberal and independent women who are in touch with their emotions, creating an annual collection just for them in fall/winter, with a pre-season range made up of 10 styles for spring/summer – these are all part of a very limited edition collection. For the designer the choice of materials and colors are as important as the idea hidden behind each piece.

González has made a name for herself in the world of lingerie off the back of her designs, which have enabled prestigious collaborations, notably with the famous Victoria Secret chain, where González worked with designer Aurelia Gil to create a bridal range. Her brand will also be shown on the catwalk at Gran Canaria Moda Calida. For fall/winter 2016-17, she has designed 40 pieces, totalling 20 looks from the “Irma – the beautiful Apache” collection – a nod to a group of Parisian gangsters from the Belle Epoque. At times dramatic and erotic without losing any of its elegance, the collection is dominated by a dark tulle palette – this season’s material of choice. There are additional embellishments and the use of tall silhouettes, which highlight the waist. The star piece is the corset devoid of rigidity; the lacing inspires the rest of the collection. Today Gonzales is offered via the shop’s online boutique and in a selection of small multi-brand luxury Spanish and international stores.