Drawing inspiration from his native Columbia, Los Angeles designer Juan Carlos Obando has brought his namesake label to the forefront, with curve-hugging, figure-flattering silhouettes that turn heads.

Despite having built a business focused on evening wear, the 2014 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Winner has felt quite at home on the West Coast. “In L.A., I was able to create my small team — including my pattern maker, my cutter, etc…. I created my own eco-system,” he explained.

In order to work with the delicate fabrics that bring his designs to life, Obando scouted local factories, where he could train workers in the fine silks for which he is known. “We went through the effort of training them, and that’s the community we have built. It comes down to investing in people,” he added.

The creation of his perfect team also relied on tapping the city’s native talent: Hollywood costume designers, milliners, and knitwear designers. “The city has a huge infrastructure of manufacturing, it’s just not as obvious as it is in New York,” Obando said.

And while he allows California’s casual vibe to influence his collection, the clothes remain classically stylish. “I think Los Angeles is more elegant than other places because [people] tend to be more adventurous, more relevant and more current,” Obando said. “I think, right now, fashion is so global that people look amazing anywhere.”