Jul 6, 2023

Why we’re fascinated: Because with A-list celebrities favoring his iconic bags and clothes, the Brooklyn-native Dominican designer makes it look easy. But Lopez overcame many obstacles before making Luar a buzzy brand. In 2019, he lacked the funds to produce his own runway shows. During the pandemic, Lopez and his cousin fed and raised money for underserved people in his community. By the time 2022 came around, Lopez’s bags had gone viral multiple times and sold out quickly — leading to new and improved teamwork and runway shows for New York Fashion Week. Last year, Luar won the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s award for accessory designer of the year.

— Marisa Kalil-Barrino