San Pedro Sula, Honduras.
It took the Honduran two weeks Natalia Hernandez (57)A native of Paradise and a mother of two, she made the dress designed by Christopher John Rogers for Kamala Harris, vice president of the United States, who wore it at the inauguration event.
Hernandez spoke with Newspaper the Press and detailed how her 30 years of experience in haute couture led her to have such an opportunity.
This compatriot worked a year ago in the workshop of the Mexican designer Arturo Castañeda, Located in New York, where the dress was made.
Also read: Who is Kamala Harris, the first female vice president of the US
How was the making process?
They brought me the measurements and I started working — not knowing who I was for. Every detail was done delicately and for it to be cut, some parts I made by hand and others by machine.
What kind of clothes did they wear?
The fabric is similar to polyester and stretches a bit, so it was harder to work it on, as the term had to look perfect.
How long did it take you to make it?
It was a two-week job (30 hours in total). These types of dresses are made slowly and with great precision.
How did you feel when you found out it was for Kamala Harris?
I got very nervous, I remember that day I left work late because I spent more time in the dress, I wanted everything to come out perfect and thank God it was.
Has it been one of the most complicated jobs?
Definitely because it was a well taken care of process. The front parts were done first, I took care of the front part, then I passed it to a partner to do the stitching by hand and the same was done with the back part. Meanwhile towards the lining and then I put on the full dress.
Why do you think they chose you to make the dress?
I am the only one in the workshop with experience in making all kinds of pieces for men and women. I have been working in this field for 30 years, 10 years in Honduras and 20 in the United States.
How did you get to the workshop of designer Arturo Castañeda?
A friend recommended me because I had already worked in two workshops. I started making men’s shirts and then I talked to my boss (Arturo) to tell him I knew how to make lady pieces and he, very happy, allowed me to do other jobs.
How did you feel when you saw the vice president in the dress?
Wow. I was very excited. They brought us a TV and nozzles to the workshop to watch the takeover and I was proud. My classmates congratulated me a lot because she liked the finish. I never thought this would happen.
What happened after your daughter posted this landmark on her networks?
My phone and my daughter’s phone kept ringing. Friends, family, and the media began contacting me. My daughter made the post on Facebook because she is proud of her mother’s work and then many compatriots started sharing it. I wholeheartedly thank you for your messages.
What did he do in Honduras?
He had a sewing workshop and made clothing contracts. She made uniforms, dresses for trinkets, wedding dresses, evening dresses, T-shirts, men’s clothing, everything.
Do you plan to return to Honduras?
Yes, I have already worked hard and I want to be with my parents, 20 years ago I could not give them a kiss a hug. I need to rest and enjoy them.