Carlette Thierry’s fashion journey began in her childhood closet, where she remixed hand-me-downs into confidence-boosting outfits that caught the attention of her classmates. Today, the Austin-based designer has taken her eye for bold ensembles to the runway, debuting a sustainable line at Austin Fashion Week 2025 under her brand, CarlettesCreativeCouture.
ATX City Lifestyle: How did your spark of creativity evolve into a decade-long career in styling and now your debut as a fashion designer with a sustainable collection at AFW?
Thierry: As a young girl, I loved creating new looks from the clothes I already had. I wanted to appear different every day without repeating outfits. My friends started asking for style advice and even shopped my closet at school. That early interest inspired me to pursue a fashion degree, which led to a 10-year career with Cabi, helping women build wardrobes that fit their lives. It’s been a journey of learning how to help people feel confident through clothing.
ATX City Lifestyle: Can you tell us about the concept behind your sustainable collection, which was showcased at AFW 2025?
Thierry: The theme of my collection is pattern play. I wanted to create looks that combine different textures and prints in a way that feels bold yet approachable. Many women shy away from patterns because they’re afraid of overdoing it, but I wanted to show how you can layer prints without losing yourself in the outfit. It’s about balance and confidence.
ATX City Lifestyle: What materials or techniques did you use to keep it eco-conscious and trendy?
Thierry: I focused on sourcing materials that are both sustainable and stylish. I used cotton, polyester and recycled fabrics that retain their shape and quality over time. I wanted the pieces to be fresh and fashionable, yet also built to last.
ATX City Lifestyle: What was it like debuting your line at AFW, especially as a local creative?
Thierry: It was surreal. After years of working as a stylist for another brand, I finally had the chance to step into my own creative spotlight. That background gave me the tools and experience to launch this line with confidence. Doing it in Austin made it even more meaningful.
ATX City Lifestyle: You’ve assisted at New York Fashion Week and collaborated with other designers. How did those experiences prepare you for launching your brand?
Thierry: Assisting a San Antonio designer at NYFW taught me a great deal about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into a show — preparing models, handling fittings and managing nerves. That experience motivated me to enroll at ACC to sharpen my design skills and prepare for launching my own collection. Every step has built on the last.
ATX City Lifestyle: How do you define CarlettesCreativeCouture, and what do you hope people feel when they wear your pieces?
Thierry: CarlettesCreativeCouture is for women — especially those in midlife and beyond — who want to express themselves through bold, stylish choices. I hope my pieces help women feel empowered and unapologetic about their style, no matter their age.
ATX City Lifestyle: As someone with a degree in Retail/Fashion Merchandising and now training in fashion design, how do you blend business savvy with creative expression?
Thierry: My retail background taught me the business side of fashion — working with clients, managing inventory, running a small business. Combining that with design training allows me to create pieces that aren’t just beautiful but practical for real women. It’s about knowing your customer and meeting her where she is.
ATX City Lifestyle: Where do you see your brand fitting into the sustainability conversation in the next few years?
Thierry: I want to help women build smarter wardrobes — by adding a few key pieces, shopping at thrift stores or restyling what they already own. Sustainable fashion isn’t just about fabric — it’s about changing how we think about getting dressed. My goal is to help women feel stylish and responsible at the same time.
ATX City Lifestyle: What advice would you give aspiring designers?
Thierry: Never give up. Stay informed, volunteer at local events and make connections. Opportunities often come from unexpected places and staying visible can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
"I hope my pieces help women feel empowered and unapologetic about their style, no matter their age."
"Sustainable fashion isn’t just about fabric — it’s about changing how we think about getting dressed. My goal is to help women feel stylish and responsible at the same time."