Valerie Garmino design, photo credit Evan Browning

The concept of haute couture may sound exotic, but one local designer is bringing the art of custom-made clothing right into our neighborhood. Valerie Garmino is the founder of the clothing brand that bears her name, which operates through a “luxury concierge” business model. By collaborating with her clients throughout the Preston Hollow and Park Cities areas in their homes or offices, she is able to combine couture with convenience.

Valerie Garmino, photo credit Evan Browning

Garmino earned her design degree in the United States, with additional studies at London’s prominent Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. She made her professional debut at Paris Fashion Week in 2019, later earning awards from Fashion Group International of Dallas and the London International Creative Awards, among other notable accolades. In addition, her work has been featured in British Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.

“My greatest strength as a designer lies in combining technical skills with a highly personal experience for my clients,” says Garmino. “I am deeply committed to haute couture as a form of cultural preservation and storytelling. In a world driven by speed and automation, my work elevates the value of high-quality handmade designs.”

Valerie Garmino design, photo credit Evan Browning

With a focus on evening gowns and cocktail dresses, Garmino’s haute couture designs showcase intricate beading and hand-embroidery. Specific to upcoming spring social events and prom season, her “Lotus” collection highlights floral motifs, flowing silhouettes, and pastel palettes. Each piece is made-to-order to a client’s individual measurements by the designer and her team utilizing sustainable, traditional techniques.

“Our work is approached as collectible art,” says Garmino. “Together with our clients, we create heirloom pieces designed to be lived with, preserved, and later passed down to the next generation.”

In addition to haute couture, the Valerie Garmino brand offers select ready-to-wear items including knitwear ($150 and up) and outerwear ($450 and up). Haute couture is priced on an individual basis. Garmino currently serves clients throughout Preston Hollow and the Park Cities, as well as in the greater DFW area by appointment. Visit www.valeriegarmino.com for more information.