Lmh Mag, Models

could not talk until the age of six. Because of that, she turned to art as a form of communication. Eventually, art became her passion and Lauren wanted to explore her talent. She became enrolled at two Performing Arts schools Parkway and Dillard for Visual Art. Her award-winning artwork was displayed in contests and museums.

At the age of thirteen, Lauren discovered fashion design. While visiting her father at work one day, she began draping fabrics over an undressed mannequin. Surprisingly, she was amazed at the cool shawl she had actually created. One month later, Lauren designed her first garment and it was sold to buyers from Germany.

Lauren Eilenberg shares with Ms. Bridgé how and why she is determine to prove herself in the fashion industry.

Ms. Bridgé: When you were growing up what did you dream of becoming?
Answer: Prior to discovering fashion design, I actually wanted to be an artist. I learned that I could still achieve.

Ms. Bridgé: When did realize you had a talent for designing?
Answer: For me, the designing aspect of fashion comes naturally. Sewing, however, is my main challenge. Unfortunately, sometimes the sewing machine has a mind of its own!

Ms. Bridgé: How do you want women to feel when wearing one of your designs?
Answer: I want women to feel comfortable, feminine, artsy, and empowered when they wear my garments. I always have a story in mind and I incorporate that message in my designs. I love bringing back the past and modernizing the style.

Ms. Bridgé: What celebrity would you like to see wearing your designs and explain why?
Answer: When I see Nicole Kidman and Anna Paquin on the Red Carpet, they are so elegant and beautiful. I would love to see either actress wearing my designs. With regard to men’s fashion, I would love to design for Paul McCartney or Ringo Starr. The Beatles have a major influence on my designs and I would be honored to have them wear my pieces.

Ms. Bridgé: Some people think autism hinders one's chance of accomplishing his/her dreams. How determined are you to prove them wrong?
Answer: I feel like I have already proven people wrong. I focus more on viewing Autism as a gift because my creativity, uniqueness, and artistic ability are enhanced. When people see my garments, it is easy to figure out what was going through my head while I was designing that piece. When an Autistic person is passionate about something, like the way I am passionate about designing fashion, he/she performs the task with the utmost detail and determination. I believe that anyone would be surprised at the outcome of my designs. Unfortunately, there is an unintentional prejudice that people diagnosed with Autism cannot achieve success to the same extent as those who do not have Autism. I am determined to continue to amaze everyone who thought I did not have a chance.

Ms. Bridgé: What do we have to look forward to from your next collection?
Answer:The collection I am focusing on right now is my 2012 line that is named “Universal Awakening.” The idea of spiritual enlightenment has been my main inspiration. For that reason, I look forward to using different kinds of crystals, stones, and iridescent and screen-printed fabrics.

While pursuing her degree at the Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale, Lauren gained tremendous experience. From designing a dress for the Breast Cancer Foundation fashion show at the Hard Rock Hotel to being the wardrobe assistant for Price at his half-time show at the Superbowl, Lauren unquestionably obtained unique industry experience. By far, her most memorable experience was when she met her fashion idol, Stella McCartney, while visiting England.

Now highly-functional Autistic, Lauren’s designs are artistic, creative, ready-to-wear, and couture. She is ready to conquer to dream and break into the industry at full speed.