By james art 
Laredo, Texas (KGNS) – For 127 years, Washington’s birthday holiday has dazzled with vital traditions and stunning colonial costumes. A Larendo designer who has helped to shape this visual performance looks back to his years of dedication and creativity in making the holiday comes to life.
The explosion of the past with a modern sense
For Alma Gomez, the design of colonial inspired costumes for the Washington Birthday (WBCA) birthday is more than a work-it’s a passion deeply rooted in history and tradition.
“We are trying to do our best, to do something worthy of this city and its history. This is part of our heritage, “she tells us.
As an assistant manager and designer at LA SPOSA, Gomez plays a key role in helping participants to look best during several WBCA events. With over 35 years in the fashion industry, she first joined the WBCA festivities in the early 2000s, after her own daughter participated in the celebrations.
“We started in 2007 when one of our daughters was declared Avrazo’s child from Mexico. It was a really fun process – training the traditions and legends of Mexico and included them in a dress. “
Making history through fashion
Since then, Gomez has revived the story, designs elegant dresses, complex costumes and stunning costumes for WBCA participants.
“First, we do the study – we explain the traditions and legends of Mexico. Then we include all the elements in the dress: beads, lace, appliqués. This is a whole process – putting it together and doing something really special. “
Her creations are presented in prominent WBCA events, including the acceptance of the WBCA commander and the Abrazo Annual Ceremony.
“This year, we created the dress for Abrazo’s child from Mexico, a representation of Chino Poblana, starring floras, symbolizing Noche Buena in Mexico, along with traditional gold and red accents. All this is part of our Mexican heritage. “
The work of love
Despite the long hours and countless days spent improving any outfit, Gomez remains dedicated to his craft.
“We do it because we love it. Every dress of the first I made for my daughter was just as special because every young child is like my daughter and I want them to know this – and they are also special. “
And as for next year? Gomez plans to continue to help the WBCA participants shine, a beautifully crafted suit at once.
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