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With the world of fashion channeling all things glamorous and sophisticated, Peruvian designer Vanessa Barrantes is one of the top new talents embracing femininity by bringing sexy back to women around the world. Known for her classically chic silhouettes, Barrantes has no qualms about showcasing a woman’s sensual side without crossing the line. From sweet little cocktail dresses to coquettish skirts and blouses, Barrantes takes the guesswork out of what to wear for today’s style savvy woman and makes looking classy something everyone can aspire to.

Barrantes is no stranger to fashion even though her clothing line is considered fairly new by industry standards. With the help of her sister, Barrantes created her eponymous clothing line a year and half ago and has already garnered substantial press and accolades from fashionistas and industry insiders alike.

Even though her roots stem from the culturally rich country of Peru, her sense of style and inspiration has also been influenced by living in the fashion forward capital of the United States, New York City. The complex fusion of culture, fashion and creativity has beautifully shaped the amazing designs that are sold in both upscale boutiques such as Lola y Maria and prestigious mass retailers such as Intermix.

With the launch of her new Spring 2007 collection, I had the pleasure of interviewing the talented designer about her latest collection, her inspirations and the future of her exciting brand! Thanks to Vanessa Barrantes, fashionistas are gearing up for a good-looking Spring 2007.

What is the inspiration for your latest collection?

The inspiration was 60s, Twiggy, and the Rolling Stones. I wanted something vintage looking but with a new twist, something sexy and young.

How many pieces are in the collection?

We have some old styles that we decided to keep around that are part of our Spring collection. In terms of new styles we have only about thirteen which is why we are having a big Summer collection with ten more new styles or so since our Spring wasn't huge.

What type of woman or customer did you envision wearing this new collection?

A confident woman who loves to experiment with fashion and loves to reinvent herself and be a new character through fashion every day of her life. Someone who is not afraid of color or shape as far as clothes go. A modern day Italian Donna of the sixties´, like a Monica Vitti in Antonioni´s L´Avventura.

Where and when will this latest collection be available?

In Intermix in a week or so, and in many of our stores listed online by the end of next month.

How many collections do you create a year?

We usually do two collections a year, Spring and Fall but this next year we are adding Summer.

Where do you manufacture your collection?

We have a beautiful atelier in Peru where we have everything made. The people that we work with are all amazing people and we have all become good friends. They love what they do as much as I do and it’s wonderful.

What celebrity or model would you envision as the ideal person to wear this collection?

I would love to see Kate Moss walking down the street with one of our dresses or Nicole Richie being attacked by paparazzi in a red square neck Jen from Spring and her big sunglasses. I really love these two girls they have a very unique style that is sexy and relaxed but at the same time innovative and elegant.

What are some future plans for the company and your designs?

We plan to be bigger and look forward to more wonderful things to come our way. We want to expand, make our collections bigger and sell globally. I would love to design accessories soon and to eventually open up our own stores in Paris and NYC.

For information about retailers and to view her latest collection, please visit www.shumaq.com.