Inspired by her childhood in Mexico, Carolina Hernandez was destined to become a designer driven by purpose and heart. Surrounded by the artistry of her mother and grandmothers who were women who sewed, crafted, and created Carolina developed an early fascination with garment making. This passion led her to carry on her family’s creative legacy and eventually move to Los Angeles, California, where she pursued her dream of studying fashion design.

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In 2005, Carolina chose a profound path of service by giving back to the country that had offered her life-changing opportunities. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Pearl Harbor, deploying in support of the Global War on Terrorism (2005), Partnership of the Americas (2007), Maritime Security Operations in the Arabian Gulf (2008), and Operation Enduring Freedom (2012).

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In 2014, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design from the Art Institute of California–San Diego. Drawing from her rich cultural roots and military experience, Carolina founded Veteran Couture in 2015. Her designs are known for bold colors, textured fabrics, inventive embellishments, asymmetrical silhouettes, and striking fabric manipulation techniques that challenge traditional perspectives in fashion.

During the pandemic, Carolina launched a powerful collection titled Courage, crafted from refurbished military uniforms. The collection gained national recognition, with features in major fashion publications and interviews on CBS News, Univision, Estrella TV, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and the PenFed Foundation.

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In 2024, Veteran Couture honored the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a one-of-a-kind dress made from a parachute paying tribute to the WWII Army Airborne tradition of crafting dresses from parachutes. The commemorative piece was featured in two bridal magazines, a veteran publication, and across the We Are The Mighty network, reaching over one million followers on Facebook. The dress is currently on display at the Vintage Purse Museum in Chicago. Carolina’s work has also received national attention, including an appearance on the Today Show during Veterans Day, spotlighting her mission and creative impact.

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Carolina continues to grow as a designer, leader, and advocate. She holds a Master’s degree in Digital Media Management from the University of Southern California, blending strategic storytelling, branding, and technology with her creative vision. Believing that the American dream is built on patience, hard work, and dedication, she actively collaborates with nonprofits and supports veteran communities nationwide. She currently works as a Lead Career Development Specialist for The Salvation Army and proudly serves in the Navy Reserves as a Senior Chief Petty Officer.