Discover how the award-winning Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collection by Ryan Winegan blends Italian craftsmanship with a modern design philosophy rooted in quality, artistry, and purpose.
A Journey from Virginia to Italy and the Realization of a Dream
It began with a leap of faith that would change everything. After graduating from Virginia Tech, versatile designer Ryan Wineganmade an unconventional choice. Instead of pursuing a traditional internship in the United Kingdom’s fashion industry, she accepted an opportunity to be an Au pair in the small Italian town of Oderzo.
In 2008, she arrived in Italy with no knowledge of the language and no connections in fashion. What began as an unexpected detour soon became a defining journey of self-discovery, and of charting a path toward her lifelong dream of launching her own fashion brand. As Ryan embraced the Italian language, adapted to a new culture, built a life in a foreign country, and ultimately answered the unexpected call to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives through teaching, she simultaneously pursued her creative calling with unwavering dedication.
That experience planted the seed for what would become Winegan Designs®, a brand featuring the Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collectionthat blends American resilience with the timeless artistry of Italian design. “This life deviation, and every obstacle encountered along the way, became an opportunity for growth,” Winegan reflects. “The Italian experience has built my character, and given me a deep appreciation for design, craftsmanship, and the value of creating something that lasts.”
The Birth and Artistry of the Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collection
In February 2025, Ryan officially introduced the Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collection, a refined line of handcrafted Italian-made footwear and accessories. Produced in Le Marche, known as “The Shoe Valley,” the collection honors Italy’s long tradition of artisan leatherworking that dates back to the early 1900s.
Each piece is designed with a balance of aesthetic beauty and everyday functionality. Italian leather, suede, and select materials form the foundation of the collection. Every product is carefully constructed by selected artisans and presented in a collector’s edition handmade Italian box having a magnetic closure and premium print detailing.
“True luxury transcends price tags, logos, and trends,” Winegan explains. “I believe it is rooted in the integrity of the creative process, the meaningful story behind each piece, and the collaboration between the designer’s vision and the maker’s expertise”
Recognition in International Fashion
Since its debut, the Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collection has gained attention from fashion media around the world. Ryan’s designs have received ten AliveShoes Staff Pick Awards and have been featured on the websites of Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Shoe Circle, and others prominent platforms.
The Abstrak Beauty ballerina flatswere highlighted by Vogue, and the Abstrak Beauty 2 zip military bootsappeared in Vanity Fair. In addition to that, her photographic work for the BOLD ALLURE BLACK Luxury High Top Sneakerswas named Photo of the Weekby AliveShoes.
These accomplishments reflect Ryan’s creative depth and her ability to merge bold design with refined craftsmanship.
Award-Winning Talent
In recognition of her exceptional work, Ryan Winegan was recently named Best Emerging Fashion Designer in Italy of 2025. This prestigious award celebrates her innovative designs, commitment to quality, and growing recognition in the fashion world. Furthermore, it highlights her unique ability to merge bold, modern aesthetics with the timeless elegance of Italian craftsmanship.
The Designer Behind the Brand
Before venturing into the world of fashion, Ryan was a determined student who prioritized hard work, cultivated a positive mindset, and led by example, values that were crucial to her success. A graduate of Virginia Techand the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Leader Development Program, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Apparel, Housing, and Resource Managementwith concentrations in Apparel Design and Merchandising Management, as well as minors in Businessand Leadership.
Her professional background spans wedding planning, design, education, entrepreneurship, and other creative ventures. She is also a U.S. patent-holding inventor, underscoring her commitment to innovation and originality.
Over a decade immersed in Italian life has helped Ryan cultivate a nuanced understanding of the connection between culture and design, shaping her creative vision. This perspective guides her brand’s mission to offer modern luxury rooted in craftsmanship, individuality, and authenticity through this distinguished collection.
Redefining Modern Luxury
In the Winegan DesignsEleganza Italiana Collection, luxury becomes a medium for storytelling and craftsmanship, centered on creative integrity and thoughtful artistry rather than a symbol of exclusivity. The luxury collection is available exclusively through the AliveShoes fashion-tech platform. Footwear can be purchased in U.S., U.K., or E.U. sizes, with most accessories available in one size, and select designs offered in standard sizing.
Production and shipping typically take between six and twelve business days, with each order’s progress available to track through the AliveShoes Dashboard. Every order includes transparent service, complementary shipping to Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, and a satisfaction guaranteeincluding free returns. International orders delivered to other destinations may incur duties and taxes upon delivery. Visit the brand’s official website for full details.
Items from the collection can be acquired in U.S. Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds. Clients are invited to showcase their purchased items and unique style on the AliveShoes platform, contributing to an engaged community of design enthusiasts.
“My vision is to bring a fresh voice to contemporary luxury through Italian-made excellence and a distinctive edge,” explains Winegan. “Each piece in the collection reflects a commitment to quality, individuality, and timeless artistry.”
A Mission of Creativity and Purpose
Beyond her rising success in fashion, Ryan is deeply committed to social good. In September 2025 she launched the United for Clean Water 2025fundraising campaign in support of the nonprofit organization charity: water, which works to provide clean and safe drinking water to communities around the world.
Supporters can join her initiative through Ryan’s charity: water community, available atcharitywater.org/ryan-winegan. All donations are processed directly through the charity’s official platform.
“While designing with purpose is deeply rewarding, shaping a better world remains the ultimate ambition,” Winegan shares. “Creativity finds its highest expression in service to others, and after a considered and deliberate process, I am pleased to present this fundraiser publicly.”
Her commitment to humanitarian impact mirrors the values that define her design work: intention, empathy, and excellence.
Building a Legacy
The evolution of Winegan Designs®is a story of perseverance and transformation. From her early experiences assisting her grandparents with wedding planning and floral design, to a career in education, the launch of her own ventures in 2025, diverse professional experiences, and recognition as a designer featured in leading fashion publications, Ryan Winegan has built a brand defined by creativity, resilience, and purpose.
The Winegan Designs® Eleganza Italiana Collectionis not simply about fashion. It is one of the collections from the Winegan Designs brand, and represents a philosophy that connects art, craftsmanship, and compassion. The Winegan Designs® Photographic Art Collection, another collection featured under the Winegan Designs brand, brings Ryan’s photography and graphic design work to life across home goods, apparel, décor, and more, made accessible to everyone via professional print-on-demand services. With her collections, teaching, and charitable work, she continues to prove that purpose and artistry can coexist seamlessly.
“My aim is to leave a lasting impression,” Ryan reflects. “Through inspired creativity, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering dedication, I hope my work empowers others, builds confidence, and contributes to initiatives that create real change.”
Explore Winegan Designs
To explore the Winegan Designs Eleganza Italiana Collection, visit the brand’s official AliveShoes page ataliveshoes.com/brand/winegandesigns.
Learn more about Ryan’s creative journey, photography, the Winegan Designs Photographic Art Collection, and her ongoing projects atwww.ryanwinegan.com. Follow Winegan DesignsonInstagramandYouTubefor updates and behind-the-scenes features. Content for the brand’s social media profiles will be officially released in Autumn 2025.
Step into elegance, where every detail embodies distinction. Define your style. Own the statement. Express yourself with Winegan Designs.
