At just 15 years old, Liliana Mijangos is turning creative vision into high-fashion reality. Transitioning seamlessly from her background in acting to taking center stage on the runway, the young designer made an unforgettable debut at New York Fashion Week with LC Couture. Featuring two captivating collections – “Queen of Hearts” and “Whimsy of Elegance” – her showcases blended bold self-expression with sophisticated, multi-generational artistry crafted alongside her mother and grandmother. From earning early royal acclaim to capturing the vibrant energy of the runway, Mijangos proves that passion and authentic storytelling know no age limits.
We are thrilled to welcome designer, actress, and model Liliana Mijangos to Blackbird News to share the story behind her remarkable journey and latest collections.
Hello Liliana Mijangos, welcome to BlackbirdNews! Your journey started in Menlo Park and took you to Anaheim and now to New York Fashion Week. What was the initial spark that pushed you to step out from behind the acting camera and onto the design floor?
I think the initial spark was just wanting to try something new and challenge myself. I’ve always loved being creative, and acting gave me a way to express myself, but I started realizing that fashion could be another way to tell a story and show my personality. Designing let me be more hands-on and turn ideas in my head into something real. Going from Menlo Park to Anaheim and now New York Fashion Week has been such a crazy journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.
At NYFW, you debuted two distinct collections: “Queen of Hearts” and “Whimsy of Elegance”. What core narrative or feeling did you want audiences to take away from each presentation?
For “Queen of Hearts,” I wanted people to feel confident, powerful, and like they could really embrace who they are. The collection was inspired by the idea of being bold and not being afraid to stand out.
With “Whimsy of Elegance,” I wanted to create something softer and more magical. I wanted the audience to feel like they were stepping into a different world where elegance and imagination could come together. Both collections are different, but they show different sides of creativity and self-expression.
During International Heritage Fashion Week in New York, a German Prince noticed your suit jacket, wore it, and introduced you at the finale. How did that unexpected royal nod change the trajectory of your NYFW experience?
Honestly, it was such a surreal moment. I never expected a German Prince to notice my suit jacket, wear it, and then introduce me at the finale. It made the whole NYFW experience feel even more special because something I created was being recognized in such an unexpected way. It also gave me more confidence as a young designer and reminded me that you never really know where your creativity can take you.
Your core philosophy focuses on taking spontaneous, unexpected inspiration and turning it into garments that empower people. Where did the initial spark for the “Queen of Hearts” collection come from?
The initial spark for “Queen of Hearts” came from the idea of confidence and being comfortable with who you are. I wanted to take that feeling and turn it into clothing that makes someone feel strong and special when they wear it. A lot of my inspiration comes from random moments, colors, details, or ideas that pop into my head, so I started putting those pieces together and the collection slowly came to life. I wanted “Queen of Hearts” to feel bold, fun, and empowering without being afraid to stand out.
You began acting at a young age, including playing the younger version of Olivia Munn in Violet. How does performing on screen compare to the thrill of taking a bow on a Fashion Week runway?
Acting and fashion are both exciting, but they feel completely different. With acting, I get to become a character and tell someone else’s story, while with fashion, I get to create something that comes directly from my own ideas. Taking a bow at Fashion Week was definitely a different kind of adrenaline because I was seeing my designs come to life in front of an audience. Acting taught me how to be comfortable performing, but fashion has given me a whole new way to express myself.
Working closely with your mother and grandmother gives LC Couture a deeply personal foundation. How do three generations bring their unique perspectives together to stay ahead of modern trends?
I think having three generations involved is really special because we all see fashion differently. I bring a younger perspective and pay attention to what people my age are wearing and what feels current, while my mom and grandmother bring their experience, creativity, and knowledge of fashion from different generations. We bounce ideas off each other, and sometimes we disagree, but that usually leads to something even more creative. I think that mix of different perspectives is what makes LC Couture feel personal while still staying fresh and modern.
“Whimsy of Elegance” was designed to balance playful creative details with sophisticated tailoring. How do you strike that balance so garments feel both imaginative and wearable?
For me, it’s about finding the right balance between having fun with the design and making sure someone can actually feel comfortable and confident wearing it. I like adding playful details, unique fabrics, colors, or little surprises, but I also pay attention to the fit and structure so the outfit still feels polished. I want my designs to feel special and imaginative without looking like something you could only wear on a runway. The goal is for people to have fun with fashion while still feeling like themselves.
NYFW is known for its fast-paced energy. What was one moment behind the scenes during your September shows that you will never forget?
One moment I’ll never forget was seeing everything come together right before the show. Behind the scenes, there were models getting ready, people making last-minute adjustments, and everyone moving so quickly. It was definitely a little chaotic, but in the best way. Then, seeing my designs walk down the runway after all the work my family and I put into them was such an amazing feeling. That moment made me realize, “Wow, I’m actually doing this!”
As a model, actress, and designer, how do you handle wearing so many creative hats at once without losing sight of your core vision?
I think the biggest thing is remembering why I started in the first place. Acting, modeling, and designing are all different, but they’re all ways for me to be creative and express myself. I try not to put too much pressure on myself to be perfect at everything and instead focus on learning and enjoying the process. My core vision is to stay creative, be myself, and create things that make other people feel confident. As long as I keep that in mind, I can explore different opportunities without losing who I am.
What message do you hope your NYFW success sends to other 15-year-olds who have big dreams in art and entertainment?
I hope it shows other 15-year-olds that you don’t have to wait until you’re older to start chasing your dreams. If you have an idea or something you’re passionate about, take that first step and see where it takes you. There will definitely be challenges and moments when you doubt yourself, but that’s part of the journey. I’m still learning too, but being able to show my designs at NYFW has taught me that age doesn’t have to limit your creativity. Believe in yourself, stay true to who you are, and don’t be afraid to try something different.
You can connect with Liliana Mijangos through Instagram @liliana.mijangos, @lccbyliliana, and IMDb
