Veejay Floresca

Championing Diversity and Innovation: The Inspirational Journey of Veejay Floresca in Fashion

The fashion industry's evolving demand for diversity is ushering in a new era, rooted in inclusivity and gender fluidity. Leading this revolution is the inspiring Veejay Floresca, whose creative brilliance as a transwoman couturier in San Francisco, California, stands as a testament to her success.

Raised in the vibrant urban landscape of Pasay City in Metro Manila, Veejay Floresca's early aspirations were influenced by her father's legal career. The city's rich cultural heritage, highlighted by the prestigious Cultural Center of the Philippines, added depth to her upbringing. However, Veejay's path took a significant turn when her father passed away before she could complete high school.

Navigating the challenges of competitive college admissions and financial constraints, Veejay found herself at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. During her admission interview, she tearfully recounted her father's passing and the ensuing financial hardships, which made college seem unattainable. Touched by her story, the college awarded her a full scholarship.

While the institution lacked a pre-law program, it unveiled an unexpected opportunity in fashion design. Embracing this new direction, Veejay excelled, ultimately graduating summa cum laude. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, "Destiny led me to fashion design. Like in a beauty pageant, if a crown isn't meant for you, then it's not, regardless of how many times you compete."

Determined and goal-oriented, Veejay embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by founding her own business. With savings in hand, she journeyed to London for a six-month bridal wear program before pursuing a master's degree in fashion design at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where she chose to settle. When asked about the industry's challenges, Veejay candidly replied, "You really need financial backing. It's tough, especially in the U.S." Juggling multiple roles in her one-woman enterprise, she serves as designer, pattern-maker, delivery person, and social media manager.

Recalling an early success during her college years, Veejay shared her experience of participating in a prestigious design competition in the Philippines. Selected for Team Philippines in Paris, she faced a daunting obstacle: lack of funds for the trip. "I couldn't afford Paris, so I cried," Veejay confessed. Fortunately, a co-designer stepped in, ensuring her creation graced the international stage.

"Fashion is an art, a business, and a platform for social activism," Veejay asserted. While runways once exclusively featured size 0 models, inclusivity now reigns, showcasing diversity in age, body type, and identity.

Raised in a country rich in cultural diversity, Veejay promotes her heritage by infusing Filipino design elements, such as pineapple textiles and traditional butterfly sleeves, into her creations. "I'm a proud Filipina designer, embracing my roots," she affirmed. Veejay's latest endeavor champions sustainability through upcycling. "As a transwoman, my clothes reflect who I am," she noted. Deconstructing men's attire to suit women, Veejay finds joy in the science of upcycling.

Reflecting on her scholarship-supported journey, Veejay emphasizes the importance of giving back. Through The Veejay Floresca Foundation Grant, she sponsors four aspiring fashion designers in the Philippines, including transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals. "Their success is my accomplishment," Veejay concluded.

A pillar of strength in her own narrative, Veejay Floresca fearlessly opens up about her journey through past and present obstacles, undeterred by setbacks but rather fueled by the promise of her future success. She's truly a rising phoenix, embodying resilience and determination that deeply resonates with us all.

Photo credit: Provided by Veejay Floresca