Accessories – New Orleans
Ashley Gunkel was named 2013 “Top Designer” of Fashion Week New Orleans, with her collection demonstrating her technique, attention to detail and retail appeal. The collection is referred to as the “Midas Collection” because of the use of vibrant and shimmering gold and silver brocades.
Gunkel’s coastal upbringing in Ocean Springs, Mississippi helped to foster her love for color, design, and form, which she cultivated into an enthusiasm for fashion. Ashley followed her passion to Mississippi State University; there, she obtained a bachelor\'s degree in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising, with an emphasis in fashion, along with a business and marketing minor. During her time at Mississippi State, she also studied in London and trained in New York under Donna Karan, learning the varying aspects of the fashion industry firsthand.
The culmination of these experiences can be seen in Ashley\'s work; her desire is to create garments and accessories that are extraordinary, allowing those who wear her designs to express themselves uniquely.