Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Flora Montes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Flora, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?

The legacy I aspire to build is one of empowerment, inclusivity, and transformation. Through my journey, I aim to amplify underrepresented voices in the fashion industry, inspire future generations, and redefine success by embracing diversity, fostering community, and celebrating individuality.

I hope to be remembered as a visionary who transformed pain into purpose, using creativity to uplift and empower others. My goal is to leave an indelible mark on people’s lives—not just through fashion but through a relentless commitment to equity, love, and resilience.

Above all, I want my work to ignite a belief in others that no matter their origins or struggles, they hold the power to transform their lives and make the world a better place.

Flora, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am Flora Montes, the proud founder and CEO of Bronx Fashion NYC. This journey is about more than fashion—it’s about redefining possibilities. Born and raised in the South Bronx, I carry the strength and spirit of my Puerto Rican roots and the determination of a curvy Latina who turned her challenges into a mission to uplift others. What began as a way to overcome my insecurities has grown into a legacy built on resilience, empowerment, and love for my community.

Bronx Fashion NYC is more than an organization—it’s a movement that celebrates inclusion, diversity, and transformation. Through Bronx Fashion Week, we showcase the untapped talent and unique creativity of underrepresented designers, models, and entrepreneurs. Our mission is simple and profound: to provide a platform for voices that deserve to be heard and talents that deserve to be seen.

Initiatives like Fashion Redefined take this mission to the next level by challenging traditional norms and exploring the deep connection between fashion and mental health. We believe that fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a form of self-expression, a way to reclaim identity, and a powerful tool for healing and empowerment.

Our work isn’t just about producing fashion shows or programs—it’s about telling stories, building confidence, and creating opportunities where there once were none. By bridging gaps for creatives who lack access to resources, mentorship, and visibility, we strive to make fashion a catalyst for equity, empowerment, and meaningful change. At Bronx Fashion NYC, we are redefining the way people experience fashion, demonstrating its ability to transform not only industries but also lives.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Coming back from a trauma-filled childhood and a marriage that ultimately led to the heartbreaking loss of my daughter has been the most challenging and transformative journey of my life. For so long, I carried the weight of pain, insecurity, and fear—things that had been ingrained in me through circumstances I couldn’t control. But within that darkness, I discovered a spark, a small yet powerful reminder that I was meant for more.

Breaking free from those cycles wasn’t easy. It took years of deep self-reflection, therapy, courage, and a relentless commitment to healing. I had to confront the parts of myself that felt unworthy, and in doing so, I learned to rebuild my life, piece by piece. Through this, I discovered that resilience is not about avoiding failure—it’s about finding the strength to rise, again and again, even when everything feels impossible.

The loss of my daughter, Vanessa, was a pain I never imagined surviving. But through that grief, I learned that my pain could serve a greater purpose. It’s what pushed me to create something meaningful—not just for myself, but for others who feel unseen, unheard, and forgotten. It’s why I am so passionate about my work—whether it’s through fashion, community building, or mentorship.

To me, resilience is about rediscovering your power, even after it’s been taken away. It’s about using each setback, each loss, as a stepping stone toward a brighter future. Today, I stand not just as a survivor, but as someone who has transformed pain into purpose. I’ve learned that no matter where you come from, or what you’ve endured, it’s possible to rise, heal, and thrive. My story is not just about surviving—it’s about embracing the journey of transformation, holding onto hope, and believing in the power within all of us to rewrite our narratives. No matter the obstacles, we all have the strength to turn our struggles into triumphs.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

Keeping in touch with clients and fostering brand loyalty is about building authentic, meaningful connections. I believe that true relationships go beyond business transactions; they’re about trust, understanding, and mutual respect. I try to stay connected with my models, guests, designers, and all of those involved by checking in regularly, not just to offer my services, but to show that I genuinely care about their journey. Whether it’s through a phone call, a message, or simply sharing moments of inspiration.

Fostering brand loyalty comes from being consistent, transparent, and always showing up for them. I strive to provide more than just a service; I want to be a resource, a partner, and a supporter. When someone feels heard, appreciated, and understood, they know that they are not just a part of a transaction—they are part of a community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bronxfashionweek.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bronxfashion/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/floramontes/

Image Credits

Images by Alex Pesantes @splitsecondmoments_