Maria Catalano is a three-time FSF Scholar (2013, 2014, 2015) and a 2015 graduate of Marist University. Today, she is Head Designer at Shoshanna, where she leads seasonal collections focused on craftsmanship, femininity, and thoughtful detail.
From her earliest sketches to her leadership role today, Maria’s path reflects the confidence, community, and creative curiosity that FSF Scholars carry forward throughout their careers.
FSF: How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Maria Catalano: Classic, feminine, relaxed.
FSF: What’s the most important lesson you learned through FSF?
MC: Push yourself out of your comfort zone.
FSF: The future of fashion is _____.
MC: Conscious consumption.
FSF: How did FSF help you embark on your career—and how do you continue to tap into the community or its resources today?
MC: FSF helped me get my foot in the door by connecting me with my first fashion internship. It gave me the confidence to pursue a career in fashion, and I have stayed in the industry ever since. I continue to tap into FSF through the friendships and connections I made as a Scholar, and I attend FSF’s virtual event programming whenever I can.
FSF: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your fashion journey so far?
MC: My grandmother has been my biggest influence. She supported my interest in fashion from a young age and shared her love of New York City with me. She took me to fashion exhibitions at The Met and bought me a fashion design stencil kit when I was a child. I ditched the stencils and started sketching on my own, and I never stopped.
FSF: Can you tell us about a recent project you’re proud of?
MC: I’m proud of every season I work on as Head Designer at Shoshanna. We recently shot our Pre-Fall collection, where I developed several new embroidery concepts that came out beautifully. I’m excited to show the collection at market and see how buyers respond.
FSF: What role do you see mentorship playing in the future of fashion?
MC: Mentorship has been incredibly important in my career. I’ve been fortunate to work for two great bosses who became friends and mentors. I look to them for guidance whenever I feel stuck or unsure. Fashion is always shaped by the generations before it, and mentorship is how that knowledge is passed forward.
FSF: Are there any lessons from your time as an FSF Scholar or Alumna that continue to resonate with you today?
MC: The importance of networking continues to resonate, along with staying true to yourself. I recently participated in the Cactus Jack design challenge, and it really reinforced how powerful personal authenticity can be. Authentic people radiate the strongest energy.
FSF: Any upcoming projects you’d like to share?
MC: I recently started a small stationery business called East Side Studios. I design wedding invitations, signage, and illustration commissions. It’s been a really fulfilling creative outlet.
FSF: Anything else you’d like to add?
MC: Keep trying to grow and learn, no matter what.
📲 Follow Maria’s journey: LinkedIn | @eastsidestudios_bymc | Shoshanna
