From the outset of his career, Roland Nivelais has had a consistent and distinctive style: sophisticated, feminine and glamorous.

Having studied art and costume history at the French Couture School in Paris, the rigorous academic training of Nivelais is evident in the details of his work. Particular attention to elaborate draping, impeccable workmanship and rare final touches are always present in his innovative designs. When asked as to why his collections are mostly cocktail dresses and eveningwear, Nivelais has noted those designs to be his specialties. Indeed, he believes in being polished and soigné are essential for both body and mind. “The physical and visual are often reciprocals,” reflects Nivelais.

Born in the Loire Valley, Roland Nivelais moved to New York in the mid-eighties, living the bohemian dream as a budding designer in New York’s East Village. This was quite a change from his strict and highly formal French upbringing and education in Catholic boarding schools. It is this very contradiction, therefore, that translates to his designs: balance and elegance are obviously the rules, but there is always something a little unpredictable.

Roland Nivelais’ love of the eighteenth century, a passion for horseback riding, and a skill for fencing easily combine to create a portrait from another era. Yet he takes great pride in the daily life of his beloved New York City as an unceasing form of inspiration. Immediately after his first fashion show, Roland Nivelais became a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). His glamorous clothes have graced the cover of Women’s Wear Daily (WWD) numerous times and can frequently be spotted on socialites, celebrities and movie stars. His collections are carried by Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and other luxury boutiques across the United States.

Being polished and soigné are essential for both body and mind, according to Roland Nivelais.