NEW YORK, Sep 5, 2003/ FW/ --- Gustavo Arango's story is an example of enduring creativity and rejuvenation of the spirit of fashion.

Like the proverbial phoenix who rose from its own ashes, Gustavo Arango is back in New York's fashion scene, this time stronger and more exciting.

His story started in 1989, when the young aspiring designer from Puerto Rico enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

His passion for design, fashion and color and a constant drive to create landed him a job as a fashion designer at Pierre Balmain in 1991.

In 1994, he felt ready to be on his own and launched his first signature line, 'Gustavo.'

His commitment to quality and fresh style was noticed by the House of Bill Blass, and in 2000, he started designing an exclusive Bill Blass suit line licensed to Zaralco LLC.

Things were going well for the young Gustavo - living the American dream and his star was on the rise.

Then the unthinkable happened on Sep 11, 2001 and his downtown apartment was among those which were totally destroyed.

To say that he was devastated will be an understatement. Though his dream seem to have been broken, his spirit was intact.

He went home to his native Puerto Rico and amidst his boyhood home, family and friends, he began to restructure his collection.

'Gustavo' his bridge-priced signature line was put on the shelf. 'Gustavo Arango,' a luxurious evening wear and day wear line was conceived and created.

Spring 2004 Preview

Spring 2004 Preview

'Gustavo Arango' refines the line between couture and ready to wear. The designer's sleek and luxurious clothing graces the world’s most elegant and sophisticated women.

The response of both his clients and retail buyers have been very positive, that on its first year of operation, the Gustavo Arango line is expected to bring in about $1 million in sales volume.

The collection which is sold mainly in the designer's 4,000 square foot flagship store in San Juan caters to the exclusive and avant-garde, capturing the essence of assertive and chic women.

And on Monday, Sept 15, 2003, at 6:00PM at the tents at Bryant Park, Gustavo Arango formally introduces his epynemous collection the New York Fashion Scene.

Again, like the phoenix whose every lifetime becomes stronger than the last, Gustavo Arango brings with him his original passion for design, fashion, and color, yet this time his instincts are stronger and more exciting.

(Preview of Spring 2004 Collection photos courtesy of Gustavo Arango)