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As Miami’s design scene continues to expand, it’s easy to overlook the smaller, independent artists quietly shaping the future of fashion. These are the visionaries who experiment, innovate, and push boundaries—laying the foundation for the next generation of design.
So, what’s next for the fashion industry? Local designer Jesús Pineda, creative director of his label Vlackbook, is reimagining the future of fashion with sustainability at its core.
Of Colombian heritage and raised in South Florida, Pineda’s journey into fashion began as a teenager. Inspired by high-fashion streetwear brands like Comme des Garçons and Maison Margiela, he admired their creativity but knew their price tags were out of reach. Instead of giving up, he took matters into his own hands. At just 16, he walked into a pawn shop, bought a sewing machine for $40, and taught himself how to sew.
From there, his passion only deepened. Pineda studied at the Miami Fashion Institute at Miami Dade College, later continuing his education at the University of Nebrija in Madrid. His label’s name, Vlackbook—established in 2018—came from blending influences: the streetwear brand Vlone, the rapper 6lack, and “book,” symbolizing a new chapter that reflects his personal story and style.
Thrifted denim is the backbone of Vlackbook’s identity. By deconstructing old jeans and reworking them into conceptual, mixed-media pieces, Pineda gives discarded garments a second life. His designs feature clean architectural lines and subtle nods to Japanese high fashion, balancing experimentation with wearability.
Pineda relies heavily on community support for materials, transforming donated denim from friends and family into jeans, skirts, shorts, and dresses. “Denim is my favorite fabric,” he says. “It’s versatile, easy to work with, and you can dress it up or down.” Some projects take weeks to complete, while others—especially custom commissions—are finished within 24 hours. His studio in Downtown Miami’s Flagler District is where, he says, “the real fun begins.”
Outside of Vlackbook, Pineda serves as Director of Media and Operations at Parodi Costume Collection in Miami’s Edgewater district, surrounded by the work of the designers who once inspired him. The creative energy of that environment, he says, continues to fuel his artistic growth.
His clientele includes influencers, content creators, and artists who value craftsmanship. One of his frequent collaborators, Croatian musician Maya Azucena, has worn custom Vlackbook designs during her performances—each piece reflecting the brand’s fusion of art and fashion.
As Miami continues to evolve, Pineda hopes the city’s fashion scene embraces sustainability and innovation. His ultimate goal: for audiences to see fashion not just as clothing, but as wearable art.
Follow @Vlackbook on Instagram and DM for custom orders.
