I’m Ella Nassauer, a young designer who recently graduated from VCUarts with a BFA in Design and a minor in Merchandising. Throughout my college career, 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. My exposure to fabric and 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 over quantity. I believe the craftsmanship and labor invested in a garment should be visible, and often leave exposed hand stitching and thread tracing as a testament to my process. The extensive use of hand finishing techniques in my work is not just a stylistic choice, but a deliberate effort to shift consumer mindsets toward valuing durability and artisanal craftsmanship. I hope to continue exploring these ideas in my career, with a goal of contributing to a more sustainable and conscientious fashion industry.