SoHarlem Designer-in-Residence, Javier Valencia, founded his atelier in 2018 to offer couture garments to his clientele. Drawing on decades of experience, Javier possesses the ability to convert an idea into a tangible product, utilizing the skills he developed as a pattern maker, designer, and couturier. He imparts his knowledge to SoHarlem’s trainees and apprentices through consistent instruction and mentorship.

Javier emigrated from Ecuador to the United States in 1965, establishing his home in East Harlem with his family, where he continues to reside today. During his high school years, Javier cultivated a passion for art and fashion by sewing and exploring the deconstruction and construction of garments. He gained admission to The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, where he further honed his skills, refined his work ethic, and embarked on his journey to become a designer.

In 1990, Javier commenced his professional journey on Seventh Avenue as a production assistant to the late designer Fabrice Simon, where he was engaged in every facet of production. He also collaborated with Eva Chun, a high-end sportswear label, overseeing the manufacturing and delivery of all orders to vendors such as Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus. Following a 20-year tenure with Koos Van den Akker, where Javier started as a production manager and served as a designer for 15 years, he mastered the art of blending prints, colors, and textures to craft unique designs.