In San Miguel de Allende, fashion designer Neithan Herbert made a grand return to his roots by showcasing his spring/summer 2025 collection at the Live Aqua San Miguel de Allende resort, located close to his childhood home.
While offices in the U.S. were closed for Labor Day, creativity was thriving in the scenic town of San Miguel. The luxurious Live Aqua resort hosted about a hundred invited residents and VIP guests who gathered to witness Herbert’s latest fashion collection.
Herbert took over the resort’s picturesque garden terrace to present his collection of flowing dresses, intricate knits, and ornate accessories. Titled “Moonlight,” the collection paid homage to inspirations such as the Inca goddess of the moon, Mama Quilla, and Herbert’s mother’s elegant style, reflected in lace tops, wool skirts, and gold jewelry from her Indigenous heritage.
Equestrian motifs were also prominent, with wide-brim hats, cowboy boots, and Western-inspired outfits featured on the diverse group of models. A standout moment of the night was when a real-life white horse strutted down the runway, eliciting “oohs” and “ahhs” from the audience. Proceeds from the show benefited Equinoterapia SMA, a local organization supporting children with developmental challenges through equine therapy.
This event marked the first high-fashion show in San Miguel, a significant milestone for both Herbert and the region, placing the town on the global fashion map. Herbert noted that 80% of his collection was made from fabrics sourced in Guanajuato, with local artisans crafting the belts, buckles, and buttons.
Live Aqua San Miguel de Allende was an ideal setting for the show, blending centuries-old tradition with modern innovation. The town itself reflects this mix, with historic houses standing alongside new establishments like Starbucks, and fashionistas mingling with vaqueros celebrating quinceañeras.
The local food and drink scene is equally diverse, featuring Japanese-inspired coffee shops and paella stands alongside traditional taquerías. At Live Aqua, the main restaurant, Zibu Allende, offers a fusion of Mexican and Thai cuisine, while the stylish Spice Market upstairs serves Chinese and Japanese dishes. The Cigar Bar, with its extensive tequila and mezcal menu, also encourages guests to explore their impressive cocktail selections.
The resort is an architectural marvel, featuring a grand entryway and sandy walls nestled among lush greenery and the flowing waters of the nearby Obraje Dam. Mexican art’s vivid colors and textures are thoughtfully integrated into the common areas, creating a seamless blend of open-air spaces and cozy nooks that offer a vibe both expansive and intimate.
For Herbert, showcasing at Live Aqua was a dream come true, having witnessed the property’s evolution over the years. The designer chose the resort for their shared values of celebrating Mexican craftsmanship and promoting local talent. Live Aqua, in turn, noted that Herbert’s decision to return to his hometown for the show “speaks volumes about his dedication to his roots and the artisans of Mexico.”
Looking ahead, Herbert told Rolling Stone that he is already working on his next collection, which may feature special collaborations and the launch of art-inspired objects. He is also expanding his growing e-commerce business, with his pieces now available for international shipping.
Source: Hollywood Report
