Fashion Institute of Technology Celebrates the Extraordinary Legacy of 91-Year-Old Alumna Marcella Luiso Flanagan
NEW YORK, NY — July 22, 2026 — The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) welcomed home one of its most remarkable alumni on July 20, 2026, when 91-year-old fashion executive, author, and women's business advocate Marcella Luiso Flanagan returned to her alma mater for an in-depth interview for an upcoming feature in HUE Magazine, FIT's distinguished alumni publication.
A member of FIT's Class of 1954, Marcella met with Alex Joseph, FIT Chief Storyteller; Jonathan Vatner, Editorial and Managing Director; Tiffany Nixon, Director of Special Collections; and Julie Sygiel, Director of Alumni Relations. The visit celebrated an extraordinary life spanning more than seven decades of achievement in fashion, entrepreneurship, and advocacy for women in business.
Marcella arrived radiant and smiling, carrying treasured pieces of her history: her 1954 FIT yearbook and autographed copies of her recently published historical memoir, American Destiny: A True Story of Family, Roots, and the Journey Between Two Worlds, co-authored with her niece, Phyllis Clare Orlowski.
The FIT staff was captivated by Marcella's accomplishments and enduring spirit. Among the many highlights of her career, her third design was featured on the cover of The New York Times in 1955. Her creations have been worn by Susan Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and she contributed to major fashion brands including Cinderella, Nanette, Bobbie Brooks, and the Cheryl Tiegs line during the 1980s.
Marcella later founded her own boutique, Marcella Luiso, in Bronxville, New York, where she designed one-of-a-kind couture gowns for many of the community's most prominent women. Beyond fashion, she became a trailblazer for women in business, helping to advocate for female entrepreneurs during the 1970s, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and empowerment.
FIT's leadership was equally moved by Marcella's collection of student sketches from her years at the Institute (1952–1954). Recognizing their historical significance, the College enthusiastically encouraged her to donate the sketches to FIT's archives, where they would inspire future generations of fashion students.
The visit also opened the door to exciting possibilities. FIT is planning a feature article in HUE Magazine, a potential book signing in the FIT bookstore, and discussions are underway for a special exhibition showcasing Marcella's designs and contributions to the fashion industry.
"Marcella represents the very best of FIT," said those in attendance. "Her talent, perseverance, and commitment to lifting others serve as an inspiration to every generation that follows."
At 91 years old, Marcella Luiso Flanagan continues to embody the creativity, resilience, and determination that have defined her life. Her story—one that began as the daughter of Italian immigrants and led her from FIT's classrooms to the heights of the fashion world—continues to inspire.
To learn more about Marcella Luiso Flanagan's fashion career and her memoir, visit the Fashion section of American Destiny's website.
About Marcella Luiso Flanagan
Marcella Luiso Flanagan is a 1954 graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, a former fashion executive, entrepreneur, and advocate for women in business. She is the co-author of American Destiny: A True Story of Family, Roots, and the Journey Between Two Worlds, a historical memoir chronicling her Italian American family's journey between Bari, Italy, and New York City.Fashion Institute of Technology Celebrates the Extraordinary Legacy of 91-Year-Old Alumna Marcella Luiso Flanagan
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