Elena Velez
Elena Velez is an American fashion designer and entrepreneur from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, known for her anti-fragile fashion approach, blending metalwork with high fashion. Her upbringing as the daughter of a Great Lakes ship captain has continuously influenced her focus on the joining of femininity and force in her work. Velez has earned multiple accolades, including the CFDA 2022 Emerging Designer of the Year and recognition from Forbes and Vogue for her efforts to support Midwestern artisans.