As the youngest designer ever to showcase at NY and LA Fashion Weeks, Liliana Mijangos has already made her mark as both a fashion designer and actress. Inspired by her sister, who uses a wheelchair, Mijangos designs inclusive, stylish clothing that’s easy to wear. Liliana shares her gratitude for the support of her family, especially her grandmother, who helps bring her creations to life. Starting at age 5, this young fashionista continues to grow her passion for both acting and fashion, balancing creativity in both fields.
Photo credit: Thierry Brouard @premium_paris
Inclusivity seems to be at the heart of your designs, especially since you’ve spoken about creating pieces for your sister. Can you tell us more about how she inspired your fashion journey?
My sister inspired my fashion journey because it was quite hard to find clothes that would fit and be easily placed due to her being in her wheelchair. I took it upon myself to start designing clothes that would be easy to slip on and be comfortable yet stylish.
You’re the youngest designer to show collections at both New York and Los Angeles Fashion Weeks. What was that experience like, and how did it feel to reach such a major milestone?
The experience was amazing. So thankful and blessed for the opportunity to be a part of LAFW and NYFW. It can be very stressful backstage but once I see the models on the runway wearing my designs makes it all worth it. I feel so thankful and blessed to reach such a major milestone. I could not have done it without the support of my family, especially my amazing seamstress, my grandma, who helps me put my visions into life.
You began your acting career at 5, and one of your early roles was playing the younger version of Olivia Munn in Violet. How did that role shape your interest in acting?
That role shaped my interest in acting because I got to be in the shoes of another person/character. I always enjoy playing other parts and getting out of my comfort zone. Seeing what goes on in the background is so fascinating and I hope to be part of more amazing productions.
What are the key differences you’ve noticed between working in fashion and working in acting? Do you feel more passionate about one than the other?
The difference between working in acting and fashion is that in acting you have the role of a character with lines and actions. In that moment, you are not seeing as yourself, but as the character. In fashion, you are the creator of what you want to see on the runway or at a storefront. You create your ideas and bring them to life. Honestly, I don’t feel more passionate about one than the other. I enjoy both fashion and acting as they both are learning experiences and I wish to grow in both.
Photo credit: Jose Martinez @JDmartinezphotography
Where can we find you on social media?
Personal/Acting/Modeling Instagram: @liliana.mijangos — Fashion line Instagram: @lccbyliliana — Facebook fashion line: LC Couture