Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles honors fashion designer Martín Zepeda

The Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles honored fashion and costume designer Martín Zepeda with its “Mexican Pride of the Month” recognition during a ceremony last week led by Consul General Carlos González Gutiérrez.

Zepeda, who is a native of Xalapa, Veracruz, has spent more than 20 years establishing himself as an acclaimed fashion and costume designer in the United States entertainment industry. In the past, he has worked with various noted fashion brands including Versace, Prada and American Eagle. 

He has also collaborated with actors and artists such as Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong’o, Chris Evans and Sydney Sweeney. 

During the ceremony, Consul General Gutiérrez said that Zepeda’s achievements reflect the talent, creativity and perseverance of Mexicans living abroad.  

As part of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, observed each June, the Consulate also recognized Zepeda’s contributions as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting his career as an inspiration and role model for younger generations.

Zepeda also received the commemorative lithograph that accompanies the “Mexican Pride of the Month” recognition. Created by Mexican artist Abby Aceves, the artwork symbolizes the distinction, which the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles presents each month to Mexicans whose contributions have had a positive impact on their communities and helped promote a positive image of Mexico all around the world.

Addressing an enthusiastic crowd at the Mexican Consulate of L.A., Zepeda said that it never crossed his mind that the boy who learned to darn his own socks and sew as a child would one day be recognized for his work. 

He also shared a message for others who have migrated while leaving everything behind: “Keep going, don't stop and do it all over again. We changed locations, not flags. Green, white and red. I carried it [with me].”