Photo credit: Annie Watt of anniewatt.com

Maggie Norris

Maggie Norris is the consummate artist, infused with a passion that has taken her to the very height of design, haute couture.

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Maggie's childhood evolved with culture and imagination, foreshadowing a future in fashion and design. Norris devoted herself at an early age to pursue her dream. She acquired the necessary skills by attending the Delgado Museum School of Art in New Orleans and Parsons School of Design in New York where she studied at the Arts Students League.

Her fashion journey began at Ralph Lauren as a creative designer. Shortly thereafter, she was promoted to senior design director in charge of the women's collection. Thirteen years later, Norris left Ralph Lauren and moved to Europe where she worked as the chief designer for Mondi's women's collection. In 2000, Norris returned to the U.S. and launched Maggie Norris Couture in New York City.

Norris' collections are influenced by the many cultures she encountered while traveling the world. The Baluchar, Homage, Ballada, Equestrienne, and even Eco-Couture collections are reminiscent of the opulence of Russia, the delicacy of India, the colors of Morocco and the “eco-aware” global explorer.

Maggie Norris designs her collections in an attempt to create pieces that are refined, unique and timeless. Due to her unyielding commitment to maintain the highest quality, Maggie Norris Couture creations are cherished by many notables, including Nicole Kidman, Naomi Watts, Alicia Keys, Diane Keaton, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Beyonce and First Lady Michelle Obama. Collaborating with artists and photographers such as Annie Leibovitz, Nelson Shanks, Audrey Schilt, Anna Kiper, Julie Verhoeven and Terry Richardson has always been a focus for Norris. Furthermore, Norris' couture pieces have been featured in such publications as Vogue, Vanity Fair, WWD, The New York Times and have been exhibited in museums such as the V&A, the Museum of the City of New York, and the Museum at FIT.

While couture remains an integral part of Norris' principle, Maggie Norris New York will launch its first prêt-à-porter collection for spring and summer 2013 in September. The collection will portray a similar style and sophistication her clients have come to worship.