The genius behind New York label, Proenza Schouler, is design team Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough. They met in 1999 at the Parsons School of Design, during which time Hernandez interned at Michael Kors, and McCollough at Marc Jacobs. They teamed up for their thesis project, combined their mothers maiden names, Proenza and Schouler, and haven`t looked back since then. The duo, officially in business since 2002, were presented with the 2003 CFDA Perry Ellis Award for Emerging Talent. Their collection epitomizes modern luxury through a youthful take on upscale dressing.

Initially popular for its modern interpretation of bustiers and corsetry, the line features tailored coats in lush menswear pattern prints, sleek pencil skirts, color-blocked chiffon evening gowns cinched with satin belts, and tight, minimal silhouettes that often come in dark neutrals like bronze, battleship gray, and military green.  Proenza Schouler's elegant blazers are unexpectedly juxtaposed with hip, sporty accents for a collection that radiates the energy-filled spirit of New York City.