For those who have an eye for luxury and a penchant for exclusivity, the name Carol Vaughn-Rivera might already ring a bell. Known for her luxury fashion brand, Vaughn-Rivera, she has quietly carved out a niche in the fashion industry, where each creation is a blend of timeless elegance and modern flair. Her journey, from an avid shoe collector to a renowned designer of both footwear and eyewear, is a testament to her dedication and creative prowess. As the rest of 2024 unfolds, Vaughn-Rivera’s pieces are poised to become the highlights of the year, captivating those who seek more than just fashion.
Looking back, Carol Vaughn-Rivera’s foray into the world of fashion began with an unassuming yet profound love for shoes. “Shoes are the foundation of any great outfit,” she often says. “They have the power to transform your entire look.” This belief guided her early career, where she collaborated with a Chinese designer to produce exclusive shoe collections. These weren’t just any shoes; they were limited editions, with each collection comprising just 10 to 20 pairs. For about five years, this niche market thrived on the allure of rarity and craftsmanship, drawing in a clientele that valued quality over quantity.
Her designs were characterized by their meticulous attention to detail and an innovative approach that married traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. Each pair was a testament to her philosophy that footwear should be both functional and a work of art. After taking a brief hiatus from the world of shoes, Vaughn-Rivera’s creative vision shifted towards another essential fashion accessory: eyewear. Living in New York City, she was constantly inspired by the myriad of sunglass styles she encountered daily.
In 2023, Carol returned to her roots in Reidsville, NC, bringing with her the vibrant spirit of New York. Teaming up with a designer she met in 2017, she launched her first eyewear collection at Amo Boutique in Florence, Italy. These pieces were a hit, celebrated for their unique designs that seamlessly blended vintage charm with contemporary aesthetics. A pivotal moment in Vaughn-Rivera’s eyewear journey was her introduction to Gloria Dotie, an exceptionally talented artist and designer from Texas.
Dotie’s influence has been pivotal in defining the Vaughn-Rivera aesthetic, resulting in eyewear that stands out in a crowded market. Dotie now serves as the lead designer for Vaughn-Rivera’s eyewear line, bringing her distinct vision and artistry to the brand. The collaboration has been nothing short of spectacular, resulting in collections that push the boundaries of traditional eyewear design while maintaining an air of timeless elegance.
As the second half of 2024 unfolds, all eyes are on Vaughn-Rivera’s upcoming showcases in New York and across the United States. With two major fashion shows lined up—one in Miami and one in Beverly Hills this July, followed by another during the prestigious September Fashion Week in New York—anticipation is at an all-time high. These shows will feature the debut of two new shoe styles, designed in collaboration with her Chinese partner, alongside two fresh collections of sunglasses spearheaded by Dotie. Adding to the excitement, Vaughn-Rivera’s sunglasses are set to make a splash on the international stage, with an appearance in an Italian TV show filming next week and a feature in a short film being shot in NYC next week.
But Carol Vaughn-Rivera’s ambitions don’t stop at the runway. October will see her stepping into the realm of television, with a new series set to begin filming in South Africa. This venture aims to offer an intimate glimpse into the intricate world of fashion and entrepreneurship through Carol’s eyes. “The series will be a journey into the heart of what we do,” she explains. “It’s about sharing our story, our challenges, and our triumphs with a global audience.”
Amidst the glitz and glamour, there’s a quiet force working behind the scenes: William, Carol Vaughn-Rivera’s husband and silent partner. His role in the financial and operational aspects of the business has been crucial. “William’s support allows me to focus on the creative side,” Carol acknowledges. Adding to this dynamic team is her photographer, Wilfredo Ramos, who plays a crucial role in helping with commercials and promotions. His keen eye for detail and ability to capture the essence of Vaughn-Rivera’s designs have been instrumental in elevating the brand’s visual presence.
As Carol Vaughn-Rivera continues to expand her brand, her pieces remain a testament to her philosophy: fashion should be a reflection of one’s identity. Each shoe and each pair of sunglasses are designed with this in mind. “Our creations are about more than just aesthetics,” she says. “They’re about how they make you feel and what they represent.” Finally, as we look forward to what 2024 holds, one thing is certain: Carol Vaughn-Rivera is a name that will continue to shine brightly in the fashion industry, captivating hearts and wardrobes alike.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
