The Design Questionnaire with Donna Leah Designs
In this edition of Love Happens’ Proust-style Design Questionnaire, join us for a peek inside the creative mind of Donna Leah, founder and fashion designer behind the Miami-based Donna Leah Designs. Powerful and feminine defined by bold colors and textures, Donna Leah creates one-of-a-kind ready-to-wear, eveningwear, and accessories that radiate the dynamic energy of Miami style and I am woman, hear me roar vibes!
Born in New York, many hours of Donna Leah’s youth were spent dreaming and sketching the types of clothing that she wanted to wear – bold colors, dynamic textures, and designs that were based on how they make you feel and not the time of day you wear them.
After graduating from New York’s famed Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), the American designer chose to base her brand, Donna Leah Designs, in Miami. Inspired by the city’s energy, Donna creates bold, vibrant, and powerful designs “for women of all ages who embrace their individuality and are their own superheroes.”
A Peek Inside the Fabulous and Inspiring Mind of Donna Leah with the Lh Design Questionnaire
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Designing on my balcony while looking at the Ocean. New York has been a major part of my life and design education. Miami’s nature and energy are inspiring.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Walking the red carpet at the Grammy’s in 2020. It was a dream come true and I was thrilled that the celebrities loved my designs.
What profession does your alter ego have?
Movie star, model, celebrity.
Your favorite business tool or resource.
I find trending and news services such as Sourcing Journal and WGSN extremely helpful.
The most timeless design.
The gowns that I create are classic, yet sophisticated. I don’t follow trends, but design with the intention to offer styles that are bold and detailed.
The biggest design faux pas.
My second design was my biggest faux pas – giant bubbles!
Your design motto.
Empowering women from all walks of life.
If you were to design a room around one KOKET piece, which would it be, and why?
It would definitely be the DIVINE II | ARMOIRE. Like my gowns, I love to mix textures and colors and complete my statement with a bold accessory. Recently, I have been using unexpected fabrics such as buttery soft leathers in bold hues and luxurious Swiss denim. This peace is a statement in the appreciation of unique materials.
Love happens when…
My heart is touched, and it brings a sparkle to my eyes.
Explore more beautiful designs by Donna Leah Designs at www.donnaleahdesigns.com!
By Anna Beck Bimba
