IFLYUNIVERSE by Andres Biel
Design Apprentice
ANDRES BIEL INSTAGRAM
IFLYUNIVERSE Email
IFLYUNIVERSE INSTAGRAM
IFLYUNIVERSE
Andres Biel, founded IFLYUNIVERSE in 2019 and as Creative Director he designs high-end streetwear that pushes the boundaries with his bold designs of innovative fabric choices and unique color schemes. To quote Biel, IFLYUNIVERSE represents more than just clothing – it's about storytelling, community and creativity. It's the pulse of the street.
Biel first learned to sew on an antique machine at the Henry Street Settlement House as a teenager, working with Ruth Taube, who provided him with a basic knowledge of sewing. At 26, he earned his GED and immersed himself in fashion through YouTube and TV shows. He took classes and learned enough to create garments, culminating in his first collection, "Rebirth," for Harlem Fashion Week. This "Rebirth" collection, showcased at New York Fashion Week as part of Harlem Fashion Week, won the Emerging Designers Competition, and Misa Hylton presented him with the award. As a result of this achievement, Biel became a Design Apprentice at Soharlem, where he further developed his craftsmanship.
It been non-stop for Biel whose first fall/winter Rebirth Collection in 2019 was a visual narrative of his journey as a designer. Biel started with white and silver to symbolize birth, progressing to tones that transition into black, embodying a darker period in his journey and shifted to bold red and silver, reflecting his rebirth as a designer who rediscovered his passion and love for creativity.
His other collections include: Miami Nights which captured the city’s vibrant energy, combining bold colors, dynamic lights, and striking architecture to evoke the inclusion of street art, bright murals and tropical urban flair. Universal Light was a powerful expression of resilience and social justice, inspired by the fight for equality. Using neon colors that symbolized visibility and safety, much like the bright hues of construction gear. Universal Light was a call for recognition, action, and a tribute to the ongoing struggle for equality for People of Color. His Goddess collection, inspired by the celestial power and elegance of an Egyptian Goddess, featured royal blue and shimmering silver, designs that reflect the night sky, with intricate beading, fringed details, and luxurious fabrics. From fitted dresses to bold jumpsuits, each piece blends modern structure with celestial motifs, symbolizing strength and grace. The Goddess collection was at the center of the Pop Smoke’s Gala. He collaborated Audrey Jackson, mother of the late Pop Smoke, whose hit song "Welcome To The Party" became a New York anthem in 2019. Tragically, he was murdered at the age of 20 on February 19, 2020. Audrey Jackson founded the Shoot for the Stars Foundation (SSF) to honor Pop Smoke's legacy and advance his vision as a community builder and youth advocate. Jackson new fashion line, honoring her son, included pants designed by Biels for her capsule collection released this year.
His Universal Light collection was featured in Malvie Magazine, a billboard in Times Square, and community fashion shows with Jobs Plus and Flushing High School. He collaborated with SHEIN where the Universal Light collection reached a global audience.
Andres Biel has come full circle his first teacher Ruth Taube retired from Henry Street in her 90s now he works at the Henry Street Settlement preparing the younger generation.