Tijuana's New Cutting Edge

Designer Richard Hernadez is part of an emerging fashion scene in hipper, gentler Tijuana. (Alan Roman)

Designer Richard Hernandez believes Tijuana is becoming one of the main cities in Mexico for indie designers. (Courtesy of Richard Hernandez)

Tijuana stylist Cathy Alberich says: “TJ designers are expressing themselves through their work.  They want to participate in the emerging scene.”

Olga Cecelia Sanchez's <a href="http://www.fuegorosa.com/">Fuego Rosa</a> line launched in 2008, and is inspired by the 1960s and 1970s cuts and fabrics. She is influenced by Mexico’s bold colors and textures, French vintage, and Spain’s Andalucía region. 

Tijuana fashion designer Richard Hernandez is known by some as the next Alexander McQueen.

Despite the lack of local financial support, Tijuana designers like Jorge Sanchez continue to grow. RETRO boutique, the store he’s owned for 12 years, recently began selling his line exclusively. (Courtesy of Jorge Sanchez)

Located on the infamous Avenida Revolution, Tijuana designer Jorge Sanchez’s store sells his classically designed all cotton dresses for $30-$60, and custom gowns for $250. (Courtesy of Jorge Sanchez)

Designs by Cathy Alberich, a stylist who works with many of the local Tijuana artists, like Madame Ur Y Sus Hombres. She says it’s the violence that’s triggered so much creativity in Tijuana. (Karolina Meza)

Via Corporativa LEED building, a stylish, new restaurant in a hipper Tijuana. (Derrick Chin)