Who’s dressing Kristen Stewart, Katy Perry, Kim Kardashian?
Celebrity
Designer Ina Soltani‘s first runway show was the fabulous finale for the 2011 Style Fashion Week LA. Her colorful luxe collection was shown at the renovated cathedral space, Vibiana. On the runway: A lively and colorful mix of red carpet-worthy gowns and flirty short cocktail dresses in shimmering silks, satin, chiffon and washed leathers.
Soltani’s sexy show-stopping dresses have been worn by Hollywood’s hottest celebs including “Twilight” star Kristen Stewart, Emily Blunt, Kim Kardashian, Eva Longoria, Kristin Cavalleri, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Lopez, and Carrie Underwood. Stylist Jonas Halbert was already eyeing Soltani’s runway outfits for a fashion shoot with Cameron Diaz this week.
“I love Ina Soltani as designer for red carpet, celebrities, and shoots,” Halbert said. “It’s all about color combinations, special fabrics and even cool leather pieces. I’m always looking for something special and Ina’s washed leathers are amazing.”
The Dish Rag’s Tom Julian (official style seer for Oscar.com) chatted with Ina after the show about her collection, her inspiration, fans and expansion plans.
TJ: Can you discuss your inspiration behind your fall 2011 collection?
IS: The collection is called ‘Inner Gypsy.’ This collection is more inspired by an attitude and a vibe of women who have a zest for life, are passionate, powerful, and yet incredibly glamorous & polished.
TJ: What are three key pieces?
IS: My last look the ivory pleated Wedding gown, the red dramatic mermaid gown, and the gold party dress. These three looks represent the collection’s drama, emotions, and are sophisticated at the same time.
TJ: How would you summarize your overall design aesthetic/philosophy?
IS: I like to focus on impeccable fit, emphasizing the waist line and always look to create an hourglass silhouette with my designs. I strive most to create timeless pieces while keeping my s
ignature look intact.
TJ: You work with artisans in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and your hand-crafted pieces are so glamorous and unique. Do you feel that your homeland of Sarajevo, Bosnia has an important impact on your design concepts?
IS: Absolutely, it is deeply rooted in me so it is the undertone of everything I do and create.
TJ: Can you describe your creative process?
IS: It sometimes catches me off guard. It changes with my mood and the society. It can be as simple as an emotion that inspires me. It definitely evolves with time.
TJ: Who is the Ina Soltani customer?
IS: A woman with a strong sense of self, and has a definite sense of style. Someone who also appreciates great craftsmanship.
TJ: Who is your favorite celebrity to design for and why?
IS: It’s so hard to pick just one. Jennifer Lopez and Katy Perry are two of my favorites that I have dressed. They are both strong women that have a very distinct signature style and are well aware of what looks good on them. I think most would consider them fashion icons.
TJ: If you could design for one celebrity that you have yet to work with, who would you choose?
IS: Mila Kunis. I find her so absolutely beautiful and someone that is evolving in the fashion scene. She has a great style sensibility and I’d just love to get my designs on her.
TJ: At which moments do you feel most rewarded as a designer?
IS: When I see the reaction of my audience. When a woman puts on my dress and there is a spark in her eye, it feels so rewarding that I have made her feel this way with my creation.
TJ: What does it take to be a successful design company in the L.A. market?
IS: A lot of hard work, patience and perseverance. We must always believe in one’s self in order to make it in a tough economy. It is also essential to have a great team surrounding you. You need the right people who understand and can interpret your vision to everyone.
TJ: What can we expect for Ina Soltani in 2015?
IS: I want to expand the Ina Soltani brand to shoes, accessories, fragrance and… film!
Soltani is sold at select boutiques or by special order. Priced $800-3000.00 For more information, stores, etc, go to InaSoltani.com
To see more celebrities wearing Soltani, click here.
Check out Tom Julian on the Tom Julian Group website, follow Tom on Twitter and the Tom Julian Group on Facebook
Follow The Dish Rag (Elizadish) on Twitter and check out The Dish Rag on Facebook
Photo credits: WireImage, Tom Julian, Flaunt

Check out Ina’s amazing dresses in the up coming film, “She Wants Me” 2011, this summer, with Hilary Duff, Kristen Ruhlin, Josh Gad and Aaron Yoo.