Interview: Nadia Castillo - Mom, Model and Fashion Designer

The alluring world of fashion design and modeling are two careers that we all want to know more about. These glamorous professions are attractive, exciting and can be very high–profile.  We have one muli–talented person who lives right here in San Diego that has been able to make a business from both modeling and fashion design.  

Nadia Castillo is a head–turning model, talented fashion designer, loving wife and mother. I had the opportunity to interview Castillo and ask her all the questions we were dying to know.

Where are you from and how did you get your start in modeling?

Castillo said, "I was born in Compton in the Los Angles area and then was raised in Chula Vista. When I was 16, I began working at Chucky Cheese. It was a very slow day, so I went into the room where the Chucky Cheese costume was and put it on, all except the head. Forgetting to close the door, a lady came running in and said that I was absolutely gorgeous."  She said she worked for a modeling agency, gave me a card and said, 'Call me.'" Castillo thought nothing of it until the owner of the agency returned and said, "Why didn’t you call me?" As a result, her modeling career took flight and the rest is history.

Where did you model and what was the hardest part of modeling?

After I graduated from high school, I signed up with the Nuevo Modeling Agency. They sent me to Europe to model and I traveled around the world: Dubai, Spain, Italy, Miami and New York. Modeling is really a tough business and takes a toll on you because you are turned down 100 times for each time they accept you. I was raised by a strict Mom, which always helped her as an adult. I would say in each situation, 'What would my Mom want me to do?' I decided that if I was not a model by 23 years of age I would turn to what I really wanted to do, which was design. I had always wanted to be a fashion designer and was much happier behind the scenes.

Did you go to fashion school?

In 2009 I came back to California, and studied at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising until I received my degree. As a fashion designer, I specialize in one–of–a–kind creation. I create stylish and unique designs that are a must–have for any wardrobe. The custom process begins with designing a dress, taking your measurements and then creating a pattern to fit. Materials that I use are everything from chiffon to leather, knits, organza, appliques and embroideries.

Have you married or had children? 

Yes, I married and gave birth to my daughter Bella who was born with major health complications. Bella was in the neonatal extensive care unit for 3 months and couldn’t live off machines. The Ronald McDonald house opened doors for her. I donated one of my dress designs for a silent auction and the customer that bought it just loved it and became a solid customer. Every year I donate as a thank you to the Ronald McDonald house for everything they have done.

What lies ahead for you?

 In the future, I want to make clothes that have an impact on women in a positive way, and at the same time, I also want to reach out and help kids. I have raised funds for Miracle Babies and will give $25 of each dress I sell toward orphanages and charities.

Will you continue to model and design?

I am currently modeling for San Diego Model Management and designing one–of–a–kind creations. My tag line for designing is, "I think it then create it."  

What is trending with FIDM?

FIDM is a prestigious Fashion School that just completed 3 days of events where students were flown in from around the world to visit the different campuses.  The students toured the Hurley Headquarters and met Bob Hurley. They also had a meet and greet with project Runway Star Nick Verreros. To keep up on the latest scoop for FIDM visit: blogs.fidm.com

If you are interested in purchasing one of these stunning designs, email Nadia at nadiaensucastillo@gmail.com. You can also reach her on Instagram: NadiaDesigns_4u.