Alumni
“After graduating from SFD, I wondered how would I stand out in the crowd of design graduates? But after I got my first design job at Ralph Lauren, I realized I was the one who stood out! I was a step ahead of everyone, well-respected, and my opinion valued because of the skills I learned at SFD. I appreciate all that I learned at SFD and the time spent on pattern making and construction of real garments. Companies don’t pay you to only come up with creative ideas. In the real world they just want you to understand how to make a great pair of pants!”
2026 alumni awards
Lucille Poirier, SFD Class of 1980
Isobel S. Sinesi Lifetime Achievement in Fashion
Lucille Poirier is a highly accomplished fashion design and product development executive with more than 45 years of experience building brands, leading design teams, and growing private label businesses for major U.S. retailers.
Lucille began her career in fashion design working her way up through roles including Assistant Designer, Designer, Senior Designer, and Design Manager at companies such as GJM, Komar, Vanity Fair Mills, and Barad & Company. These early years gave her a strong foundation in sleepwear, loungewear, and intimate apparel.
As her career progressed, Lucille moved into senior leadership roles. At Hanesbrands, she successfully turned around a stalled development program and won the Avon account, growing it into a multimillion-dollar division. She led every aspect of the process, from design and development to sourcing, fit, production, and delivery, while building strong relationships with clients, vendors, and overseas factories.
She continued to expand her influence at Leeward International, as Director of Design &Merchandising, where she led the development of private label and licensed apparel for major retailers including Walmart, Target, Avon,and JCPenney. She also oversaw licensed product development for girls’ sleepwear brands Hello Kitty, Disney, Peanuts, Bratz, and Littlest Pet Shop.
At Ariela-Alpha International, Lucille led design for brands including Fruit of the Loom, Fresh, and l.e.i.jeans, overseeing product development across intimate apparel, sport, sleepwear, loungewear, and swimwear.
Lastly and most recently, Lucille served as VP of Design at Athlux Design Studio, where she was recruited to establish and grow the company’s U.S. design presence. She worked closely with major U.S. retailors Walmart, Sam’s Club, Under Armour, Old Navy, Gap, Hanesbrands, and American Eagle. She was instrumental in shaping the future of the company’s U.S. operations and studio development in New York City.
Over the course of her career, Lucille has built a reputation not only for her design expertise and business leadership, but also for her ability to inspire teams, build strong partnerships, and create products that truly resonate in the marketplace. Her career reflects a lifelong passion for design, innovation, and bringing great ideas to life.
Jennifer Fournier, SFD Class of 2002
Distinguished Alumnus Award
Jennifer Fournier is a professional costume designer and custom costumer who has spent over two decades translating her expertise in couture into the dynamic worlds of special effects, animatronics, and high-end fashion dolls. A proud 2002 alumna of the School of Fashion Design. Jennifer’s foundational couture studies at SFD paved the way for an extraordinary, multi-faceted career.
After spending a decade working in the traditional fashion industry, including launching her own vintage inspired clothing line; Jennifer made a successful pivot into the entertainment industry. Operating out of Los Angeles, she creates animatronic costumes for giants like Disney Imagineering and Universal Studios. Her extensive television and film credits include special effects costume work for blockbuster franchises like Aquaman 2, Shazam 2, The Exorcist, as well as collaborating with the legendary and beloved Jim Henson Creature Shop on projects like The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, and Fraggle Rock.
In addition to her work on the big screen, Jennifer applies her couture training on a miniature scale, drafting patterns and samples for production quality fashion dolls, including OMG, Bratz, and Rainbow High. Her work is often produced in editions of one or two, she relies heavily on the meticulous craftsmanship and high-level expectations central to her SFD education.
When she is not dressing robotic characters or bringing dolls to life, Jennifer can often be found throwing clay in her home pottery studio , or curating and caring for her collection of vintage clothing. She continues to draw inspiration from designers like Gilbert Adrian, Claire McCardell, Elsa Schiaparelli, and Carolyn Schnurer.
Alumni Spotlights
Lidiya Romanchuk, Class of 2022
Lidiya is a Ukrainian born designer who creates couture garments for stage and pageantry. Her work features intricate zippers, beading and hand sewn elements with extraordinary detail. Lidiya’s custom pieces have been worn by Amanda Mena, Rozita Fishta, and Mrs. World International, and her work has been featured in the pages of Scene, Boston En Vogue, and Boston Man Magazine.
Salome Bissa Kona
Class of 2019
Boston based designer Salome Bissa Kona wears many hats, figuratively and literally, in her work to preserve millinery craftsmanship and the slow art-making process. From her Elöre Design studios and showroom, Salome pours her heart, soul, and experience into meticulously crafting every hat, using traditional techniques and durable materials to create unique bespoke and limited-edition hats.
Kavya Prakhyati Khandavalli,
class of 2019
A Boston & NY based apparel designer focused on creating meaningful and sustainable fashion. Something as basic as a sheath dress when made beautifully with the wearer in mind can be cherished for long just like art. Originally from India, I joined SFD in 2017, where I fell in love with pattern making and draping. A collection of my garments were featured in Marilyn Riesman’s Steeped in Style Series, Annual School Fashion Show and Boston Fashion Week. After graduating, I was featured as Boston’s Next Generation Designer. Currently, I conceptualize and create custom garments for clients and collaborate with local artists to make custom pieces. My garments have appeared in magazines like The Praze Magazine & The Portrait Pr0ject.
Ashley Stambouli,
class of 2018
Ashley Stambouli is a high-end womenswear fashion brandestablished in 2018 by Ashley Stambouli; a Venezuelan fashion designer. We are focused on designing for the woman that embraces all aspects of femininity, sophistication, and elegance. The spirit of the brand echoes the modern women who are trying to look unique and different while staying chic. All the collections pieces are carefully designed in our Miami Atelier. Ashley Stambouli Atelier specializes in crafting exquisite bridesmaids dresses, stunning bridal gowns, and one-of-a-kind couture creations.
chynna pope
class of 2015
After graduating from SFD in 2015, Chynna Pope honed her skills in pattern work, stitching, detailing, finishing, and tailoring under the mentorship of Roger Hinds at Hinds Lines and Designs. Transitioning effortlessly from day to evening, Chynna debuted her menswear-inspired fashion line at Boston Fashion Week in 2014, earning recognition as “Breakout Designer” and receiving the “Best Ready-to-wear Collection” award on the Boston cable access show, “Style-It-Up.” Combining soft, flowing materials with contrasting weights, hides, and textures, Chynna’s style reflects her dynamic personality—from figure skater by day to skateboarder by afternoon, and black-tie socialite by night.
lilian barbosa
class of 2014
Lilian, the founder of Oola Sports, is a Brazilian fashion designer with a background in physical therapy specializing in orthopedics and sports traumatology. Her journey into fashion began at SFD following a career shift from healthcare to pursue her creative passion. At Oola Sports, she thrives in a supportive environment that champions excellence in sports and fitness while honoring diverse beliefs, crafting elegant and distinctive activewear designs. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Lilian indulges her passion for travel, embraces cultural exchange, relishes beachfront runs, and teaches Pilates. Her multifaceted experiences enrich both her designs and personal pursuits at Oola Sports, where she continues to inspire women to push their fitness boundaries with empowering activewear.
Candice Wu,
Class of 2011
Raised in Hong Kong and graduating in the US, Candice Wu’s designs evoke her mix of cultural influences. Candice has shown at Fashion Week in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, and Rhode Island, as well as the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Peabody Essex Museum, Boston Symphony Orchestra, M.I.T Museum, and Boston City Hall. Her work has appeared in Upscale Living, Vogue, Marie Claire, Fashion World Paris, Boston Magazine, Boston Globe, and Improper Bostonian. She received a Certificate of Recognition from Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, a Boston Fashion Award in 2012 and 2013, and the M.I.T. Descience Project “People's Choice” award in 2014.
gina dewolfe
class of 2009
Gina DeWolfe is Founder and designer of DeWolfe leather goods, artisan leather goods, hand-crafted in Boston. DeWolfe leather goods are made with beauty and function in mind, thoughtfully designed for day-to-day use and constructed using age-old techniques, ensuring quality and dependability. Gina’s collection is timeless, tough, and incredibly versatile. Her work has been featured in Boston Magazine, InStyle Magazine, the Improper Bostonian, Boston Globe, and more. Gina was recently named “Best of Boston” handbags by Boston Magazine. After the great success of her pop-up boutique on Newbury Street, Gina will open a boutique on Nantucket this summer.
Boye Asenuga,
class of 2008
Boye "Bibi" Asenuga is a Nigerian-American Founder and Creative Director of ChicNiCity, a women’s ready-to-wear clothing label based in Massachusetts. Inspired by her dual identity of ethnicity and modernity, Bibi created ChicNiCity by fusing ethnic inspired colors & prints with contemporary design elements and silhouettes that stay true to premium, wearable and versatile clothing. Over the last 15+ years, Bibi has worked with multiple international fashion brands to develop and manufacture their clothing lines that have been sold in retail stores all over the world.
cecilia hermawan
class of 2008
Cecilia is the founder of Vico Style, a direct-to-consumer tech enabled vintage fashion start-up. Vico Style’s mission is to help Americans be sustainably bougie on a budget by reclosetting vintage fashion pieces that may otherwise end up in landfills or incinerated. Cecilia has been building Vico Style since earning her MBA by incorporating her expertise in vintage fashion, technology, and passion for sustainability. After earning her SFD Certificate in 2008, Cecilia began her career as a Store Director for J.Crew’s children division, Crewcuts. She then went to work on the corporate level as a merchandise allocator for Filene’s Basement and Converse. Then she worked for seven years for True Fit, a fashion technology start-up that personalized fit/sizing solution for eCommerce retailers to help reduce returns. Cecilia founded Vico Style in May of 2021 by selling vintage fashion online and in person at local pop-up markets. During that time, she saw a gap in the market for vintage fashion.
Julie Desimone,
Class of 2004
Julie Desimone came to SFD knowing she had a dream to work in costume design for Cirque du Soleil. She held lead roles with for Cirque du Soleil for over 16 years, traveling all over the world, including Las Vegas and Japan for her work with the company. She has worked in costume and wardrobe for their productions of Mystere, Michael Jackson ONE, Kurios, Mad Apple, and Holidaze. She also recently worked as Head of Costumes for magician Criss Angel and his production of Mindfreak in Las Vegas.
Daniela Corte,
Class of 1999
Argentine born Daniela Corte founded her own brand in 2000 and quickly grew to become one of Boston’s leading designers. Ms. Corte’s swimwear designs are featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition 2012. This is her second consecutive inclusion in the magazine. Ms. Corte has received ongoing national and international media recognition and has been featured in Women's Wear Daily, Town & Country, and Lucky Magazine. In 2011, she opened the Daniela Corte boutique on Newbury Street in Boston.
ellen miller
class of 1998
Ellen has a deep passion for sewing elegant clothing, ranging from simple to ornate designs. With a wealth of experience as a couture seamstress and a seasoned teacher of fashion construction at the college level, Ellen authored the book "Creating Couture Embellishments," published by Laurence King Publishing, London, in August 2017. Since founding her company, Ellen Miller, Seamstress, in 1983, she has tailored and created custom garments for numerous discerning clients. Ellen approaches each design as a unique challenge to transform concepts into wearable works of art.
ELLA TANG,
class of 1995
Boston SEO Marketing Service Owner & Designer
I pursued my fashion education after earning my master’s degree in computer science. I was introduced to the School of Fashion Design by a friend and admired the school immediately. I learned fundamental skills that allowed me to get a job as a product developer after graduation. After several years working as a designer for several corporate apparel companies, today I am running my own label TANGOELLA.
Crystal shiell
CLass of 1993
Crystal Shiell, originally from Bermuda, pursued her education at Northeastern University in Boston, earning a BA in Mathematics. After graduating, she followed her passion for fashion by attending the SFD. Starting as a trim buyer at David Brooks and later as an Assistant Designer at PA Company, she found her calling as a Technical Designer specializing in women's business casual wear at J.Jill. She then transitioned into athletic wear, first at Puma and later as a Senior Technical Designer at New Balance, focusing on Women's Running and Elite Athletes categories. Crystal now serves as a Pattern Manager for Fear of God Athletics. She reflects, “Working in sportswear has allowed me to collaborate on collections for influencers like Selena Gomez and Nipsey Hussle, and has taken me around the world.” Crystal was honored as SFD’s Distinguished Alumnus in 2019 for her outstanding contributions to fashion and design.
Kim Whitty Spratt
Class of 1992
Kimberly Whitty graduated from the SFD in 1992 and began her career at Walt Disney World in Florida, where she contributed to stage shows like "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Little Mermaid." She then joined Baxter Galdrags in Boston, designing costumes for the Patsy Cline show and the Boston Conservatory School. Transitioning to corporate technical design in 1994, Kimberly advanced from associate to senior roles at Reebok International, Urban Outfitters, J.Jill, and currently serves as a Senior Technical Designer for TJX Companies. Her extensive experience spans both costume and technical design, recognized with the SFD's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2010.
gabe atallah
Class of 1987
Gabe Atallah, principal of Amoretalla Couture, began his career at the prestigious Bridal House Priscilla of Boston, renowned for designing wedding gowns for Princess Grace of Monaco and the daughters of two U.S. Presidents. A graduate of SFD, Mr. Atallah focuses on fit, form, and function to craft each legendary gown. Designing for the modern bride, he blends timeless opulence with hand-sewn Haute Couture techniques, using fabrics, laces, pearls, Swarovski crystals, and precious stones sourced globally. Sketching and designing since age eight, his inspiration comes from world travel and the beauty of nature, art, and architecture. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Gabe is also a proud father of three.
ann bono
class of 1983
After graduating from SFD in 1983, Ann Bono began her career at Mast Industries, a subsidiary of The Limited Inc. She held various roles, from Designer to Marketing Director, for Lane Bryant, Express, and Victoria’s Secret, where she handled conceptual design, sourcing, and product development. Ann later transitioned from apparel to footwear. At Converse, she served as Design Director, Color and Materials, influencing seasonal color trends and collaborating on premium projects with brands like Woolrich and Missoni. She also managed the product (RED) materials initiative, supporting AIDS relief efforts in Africa. Later, as Director of Materials, Color, and Trend at The Rockport Company, Ann delivered innovative materials and trends to help Rockport become a leading global footwear brand. Her career has involved extensive global travel and collaboration, enhancing her expertise in factories, textile mills, tanneries, and dye houses.
Daniel Faucher,
Class of 1982
Daniel Faucher is a recipient of both Bonwit Teller Award and the Designers Line Award. Daniel began his career at North End Fabrics Harrison Textiles as a fabric buyer and store manager. In 1985, after working for several prestigious design firms in Boston and New York, Daniel began designing under his own label, Daniel Faucher Couture. Daniel is one of the few practitioners of couture dressmaking and creates one-of-a-kind ensembles for clients in his South End atelier. His collections have graced the pages of such publications as Women’s Wear Daily, Boston Magazine, The Boston Globe, The Boston Herald, and New England Bride.
Ann Russo
Class of 1978
Ann Russo, from Quincy, MA, holds a Diploma in Fashion Design from SFD and a Bachelor’s Degree in Pattern Making and Design from the RISD. Her career began at Robert Dress Company as a stitcher and pattern maker before joining Whittington Garment Company and Original Patterns, where she honed her skills in pattern making and grading. From 1979-1982, Ann was the Designer and Head Pattern Maker for India Imports, producing 350 samples in India. She later worked with LA-based Jean St Germain and Jayne Avery Kids Co. before selling her own designs to Vermont Country Store. In 1984, she founded Ann Russo Technical Design Service Inc. in Boston, providing expertise in fashion line consulting, pattern making, and production. Over her 35-year career, Ann has contributed to numerous movies and TV shows, including Moonrise Kingdom, The Knick, Black Mass, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Denise Hajjar,
Class of 1977
Denise Hajjar has been designing under her own label and a leader in Boston for more than 30 years. She was “Designer in Residence” at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. Today her namesake boutique is at the Inter-Continental Hotel. She has designed costumes for TV, theatre and movies. Her clothes have been worn by celebrities and leaders for the Tonys, Emmys, Oscars, and more. Her numerous awards include Vision Leader, Exceptional Women, Rising Star of the Year, Distinguished Alumni, and the Isobel S. Sinesi Lifetime Achievement Award in Fashion. She is active with Dress for Success, the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston, Catholic Charities, The ALS Association, Home for Little Wanderers, and more. She is the creator and founder of the “Big Dreams Start Small” event to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Debbie Ohanian
Class of 1976
Debbie Ohanian is the creative force behind Meet Me in Miami, a brand that flawlessly combines glamour, style, and comfort. Her collection is perfect for staycations or stay-at-home holidays, featuring stylish, one-size-fits-all kimonos and cozy jogger sets. These versatile pieces can be worn as trendy streetwear or for lounging at home, ensuring both style and comfort. Meet Me in Miami is proudly produced by an all-female team in Los Angeles, committed to sustainability. Debbie's designs embody female laid-back confidence, attracting celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Julia Roberts, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. Her brand redefines fun and relaxation, offering chic and comfortable options for modern women everywhere.
Leena Dunn
class of 1974
Leena Dunn is a seasoned stylist with extensive experience in the TV, film, and fashion industries. She excels in photo shoots, personal shopping, apparel selection, and managing fashion shows. A graduate of the School of Fashion Design in Boston, MA, Leena has developed a strong professional background in arts and design. Her career highlights include working with the Motion Picture Costumers Local 705 on popular TV shows such as "The Office," "Ghost Whisperer," and "Two and a Half Men." Leena's creativity and attention to detail have made her a respected name in her field, known for enhancing the visual appeal and narrative impact of each project she undertakes.
Anthony Ferrara,
Class of 1962
Exclusive designer for Whiting and Davis, the world's leading producer of metal mesh, Anthony Ferrara was commissioned to create an exclusive design for Absolut Vodka. The "Absolut Ferrara" ad featured a silver mesh mini dress. He created four more dresses for the campaign, including an 18 karat gold "Absolut Ferrara." Mr. Ferrara’s designs have been featured in the pages of Cosmopolitan, Harper's Bazaar, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Vogue and Vogue Italia.
Dawn Mello,
Class of 1951
Dawn Mello is the Founder and President of Dawn Mello and Associates, an independent consulting firm specializing in the luxury market. Ms. Mello is a member of The Atelier Fund, investing in early-stage fashion businesses. Prior, she was the President of Bergdorf Goodman. Previously, Ms. Mello was the Creative Director for Gucci Worldwide, where she was responsible for repositioning the Gucci image as a luxury brand. In 2001, the CFDA awarded Ms. Mello with the first Eleanor Lambert Award for her unique contribution to the world of fashion.
our alumni work or have worked for labels such as:
Careers After SFD
• Mean annual wage for fashion designers in the U.S.: $107,560
• Median annual wage for fashion designers in Greater Boston: $99,340
• Greater Boston is the HIGHEST average salary for fashion designers in the U.S.