Robert Rodriguez was only 10 years old when he was exposed to the world of fashion. After moving to Miami, Rodriguez’s mother opened a clothing factory – and soon his passion led him to New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology.

He began his career at Christian Dior as assistant to the Creative Director, then becoming Design Director for Laundry by Shelli Segal and later launching his own namesake label. After Jones New York acquired his label in 2015, he served as CCO at Halston. Rodriguez is now branching off on his own with his luxury eveningwear brand Koltson. Ahead of his New York Fashion Week debut, here’s what to expect from the upcoming collection.

How would you describe your label?

KOLTSON is a luxury evening wear collection that embodies a common thread between art and fashion. The collaboration between design and art takes form in a unique experience.

What does it mean to you to be on the Official NYFW this season?

Being a part of the NYFW Calendar gives me the opportunity to share my vision and showcase my debut collection for Fall-Winter 2023.

Can you describe your collection inspiration? What should we expect?

KOLTSON was inspired by the desire to collaborate with artists and artisans in order to create a common thread between art and fashion. Together with abstract expressionist Vicky Barranguet, we developed a series of paintings titled THREADS, while the collection was illustrated through the eyes of Pepe Muñoz. The collection and paintings will be displayed in a fashion presentation during NYFW.