| Training
|
With more than 15 years experience in customized
sewing and design, Yelena Stepanenko has worked
for specialty boutiques and private clients in the
United States, Canada, and Russia. In addition she
has created evening accessories for Neiman Marcus
and Bergdof Goodman.
Yelena was trained at the Lubak design school, one
of Russia’s premiere fashion institutes. She
has studied with Susan Khalje, Claire Shaffer, Charles
Kleibacker, Richard Tyler and Kenneth D. King. She
holds certificates in couture dressmaking, and tailoring
from the Professional Association of Custom Clothiers.
In 2000, she launched Yelena Couture to create custom
clothing designs for selective clients. The formation
of Yelena Couture was a natural progression given
her expertise in creating innovative designs that
are as memorable as the occasions they are work
for. |
Talent |
Yelena has already created a number
of award-wining dress designs. In 2001 she earned
two national design awards from Threads Magazine
& the Professional Association of Custom Clothiers’
Design Challenge: “Best Overall Design”
and “Audience Choice” awards. In 2003
her work was recognized with the “Most Amazing
Transformation” award.
Her dresses have consistently achieved such high
praise due to the creativity of her designs and
the quality of her workmanship. Yelena understands
that each dress she designs is as unique as the
woman who will wear it. She doesn’t take shortcuts,
or skimp on the materials. She uses nothing but
the finest fabrics and the best techniques. And
Yelena’s customers appreciate the impeccable
quality of her garments – the time, care,
craftsmanship, and love that goes into each dress.
But the real reward is making a dress that captures
the moment, and makes memories that will last a
lifetime. The thank-you notes and referrals she
receives from her customers affirm her talent in
this arena. |
