The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

AnnMarie Zaccagnino

About AnnMarie Zaccagnino

AnnMarie Zaccagnino is an Armonk resident and a fervent fan of the Estrada twins having met them when she needed custom flower girl dresses for her daughters. She describes working with them as “magical and a lesson in how clothes can do so much more than just cover bodies, making the wearer feel seen, heard and uniquely beautiful.”

The Estrada Effect: Inspiration that Ignites Confidence & Style

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Fragmented photo collage of the Estrada twins–Jesus (left) and Antonio (right)
ARTIST JOJI OTANI-HANSEN

From their Armonk atelier to the national spotlight on “Project Runway”, the Estrada twins blend bold silhouettes, empowering narratives, and fearless individuality into every creation.

More Than Designers: They Are Confidence Creators

If you think high fashion is just about glitz and glam, think again. Meet Jesus and Antonio Estrada, twin brothers, design visionaries, and storytellers, based in Armonk, who bring something much deeper to the table. They weave heart, inspiration, and timeless elegance into every stitch.

While trends come and go, the Estrada’s design to the rhythm of their own enduring style. One rooted in identity, community, and unwavering passion. In their creative studio, the lessons and experiences from “Project Runway” continue to inspire a journey that challenges expectation and celebrates individuality at every step.

Each garment they create is more than couture. It’s an invitation to confidence. Whether it’s a teenage girl stepping into her moment, a style-savvy mom rediscovering her edge, or a woman leading with fearless grace, The Estrada’s design not just dresses, but moments of self-expression and joy. One piece at a time, they’re redefining what it means to wear confidence beautifully.

Roots, Risk, and Realness

PHOTO BY INSYNC STUDIOS

Raised by a single mom who wove kindness into every part of their upbringing, Jesus and Antonio Estrada learned early that how you treat people matters just as much as raw talent. “I think it all comes from how we were raised, in a loving environment with our mom and family, cousins, customs, and everything. It’s part of the Estrada brand. Estrada is not just a brand; we want it to be a lifestyle,” they explain.

Their story began in Mazatlán, Mexico, before the family moved to San Diego when the twins were almost four years old. It was there that those early lessons of love, respect, and authenticity took root. Antonio was the first to show a flair for fashion. By age eight, he was curating his model mom’s wardrobe, mixing textures, pairing bold looks, and doing her hair and makeup with an instinct that hinted at his future path.

At 21, Antonio moved east to work as an au pair, landing in Westchester, where he found a local boutique that became his first runway. It was there he stumbled upon an unexpected but perfect niche: designing bat mitzvah dresses and discovering his creative calling.

Jesus, meanwhile, pursued animation before realizing that his true passion lived in fabric, form, and expression. Fashion school led him to audition for “Project Runway” season seven in 2011, where his talent found a national stage.

Though life had taken them in different directions, both brothers carved their unique paths in fashion. When Antonio called Jesus to join him in Westchester, the Estrada vision found its home. The twin designers transformed their shared dream into the evolving Estrada Empire.

The Bat Mitzvah Revolution

“Bat- Mitz -Vah”, the word that took Jesus a minute to pronounce and Antonio an instant to recognize as the spark to an incredible opportunity. The Bat Mitzvah dress market turned out to be a world where demand far outpaced supply and sequins and crystals met purpose.

As Jesus explains it, Antonio compared the celebration to a quinceañera, except for Jewish girls celebrating their coming of age. Jesus didn’t miss a beat and joined Antonio in Westchester.

Antonio was the fashionista, trendsetter, and influencer” before there was social media or anything.” Jesus says with a laugh. It took one client before word spread of the amazing Estrada brothers and their fabulous Bat Mitzvah dresses.

From there, success came in stylish strides: working as in-house designers, creating their own line, opening their own studio, and, as they say, the rest is Estrada history.

From Mazatlán to Main Street: Why the Estrada’s Chose Armonk

Their barn at 480 Main Street in Armonk is the heartbeat of Jesus and Antonio Estrada’s world. “Antonio and I are around nature,” Jesus says. We wake up to the sound of the birds.” That calm, natural energy sparks their imagination every day. Armonk has a rare vibe, a close-knit community surrounded by beauty with quick and easy access to the buzz of New York City. “The people here have been amazing and so supportive,” Antonio adds.” It reminds me of home. We love it here.”

For the Estrada’s, Armonk felt like the natural next step, the perfect place where everything could flow seamlessly. Their clients and collaborators are nearby, creating a smooth rhythm of connection. This barn is not just a studio. It’s where the laid-back San Diego spirit meets their cultural background and New York City’s bold style energy. The rustic feel reflects their signature ability to encompass skill and creativity, blending timeless tradition with vibrant innovation in every piece they make.

Reality TV Meets Real Talent: Project Runway’s Twin Takeover

The Estrada’s stepped onto the Project Runway Season 21 stage and instantly captured the hearts of viewers everywhere. Although they competed individually, they knew their biggest challenge was protecting their bond as family, twins, and business partners.

“We wanted to do Project Runway together because we wanted to tell our story the right way. We’ve done so much in our careers.” Jesus explains. “It was a hard journey for both of us. I never wanted to feel that Antonio was better than me, and I never wanted Antonio to feel that I was better than him. That was kind of our strategy going into this together. We were truly ourselves.”

For Jesus and Antonio, the real takeaway from Project Runway was the strengthening of their undeniable bond and the lasting reminder not to let competition get in their heads.” I feel the universe was like, ‘No, you’re not going to be the winner because you and your brother are both the winners.'” Jesus says with a smile in his voice. Antonio chimes in, “Project Runway gave us the platform to show who we truly are as designers.”

The Real Magic: How Inspiration Empowers Elegance

Perhaps the most inspiring part of their story, though, is how they prove that fashion can be a powerful tool for all ages. Take a trip to the Estrada’s studio, and you’ll see it’s more than an atelier.

When clients come in for their milestone celebrations, bat mitzvahs, weddings, and beyond, they don’t just get dresses. They get carefully crafted conversations and lessons in confidence. No cookie-cutter gowns here; its empowerment sewn into every seam.

What’s striking is how Jesus and Antonio don’t treat clients like customers. They treat them as collaborators on their confidence journey. “It is very important for us to listen to our clients”. They talk through insecurities, dreams, and style preferences. “We know how to hide flaws and make sure they are comfortable. We want them to feel powerful, magnetic, and electric.” Jesus said. A fitting is a pep talk in self-love disguised as fashion.

The Future of Estrada

The future of Estrada shines as brightly as the Swarovski crystals that embellish their gowns. Building on a foundation of exquisite fashion, the brand is expanding its collaborations and branching into accessories, bags, and furniture to further define the distinctive Estrada lifestyle.

One exciting collaboration is EstradaXDominique. Combining the craftsmanship of Dominique Intimate Apparel with Estrada’s innovative design. They’ve created a stunning collection of bustiers that marry delicate detail with elegant comfort.

Why The Estrada Effect Is More Than Just Fashion

These aren’t just clothes. They create experiences you wear. Dresses that don’t just fit your body but fit your story, your confidence, and your joy. Every gown is an attention grabber, a bold step forward, and a celebration of exactly who you are.

It’s never been just about fabric or crystals. It’s about the people behind the dress – the girls, the women, and their special moments – that the Estrada’s honor with their clients becoming their friends, family, and biggest supporters.

What makes their brand so incredible is that they design to inspire and connect with real life. Whether it’s a flower girl turning twirls into magic, their signature bat mitzvah dress transforming a milestone into magnificence, or a mom finding her sparkle for a gala, the Estrada effect is the confidence you carry long after the last stitch is sewn.

And that’s the Estrada Effect: feeling like the best, most fearless version of yourself. When you wear an Estrada, you’re not just dressed. You are empowered.

The Fitness Renaissance: Embracing the Power of Consistency + Simplicity

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Did you know that nearly 80% of New Year’s resolutions related to fitness fail by February? As spring arrives with its blooming flowers and longer days, many of us feel that familiar urge to shed winter’s layers and get back into shape. But before you dust off that P90X DVD or sign up for “Extreme Burpee Boot Camp,” let’s take a moment to rethink our approach.

What if the secret to lasting health isn’t found in grueling workouts or restrictive diets but in the art of doing less yet doing it consistently? Prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about fitness and discover how small shifts can lead to big results. After nearly 40 years in the fitness world, I learned that keeping things simple and consistent is the real game-changer for achieving your wellness goals over the long term.

My Fitness Journey

In 1987, I became a certified fitness trainer, jumping into a field that was just beginning to gain traction. As a college student and cheerleader, I balanced the physical demands of stunts and routines with homework, a social life, and training athletes, I quickly learned that true dedication means finding a way to fit everything into a busy schedule-like trying to fit into last year’s jeans after a winter of hibernation! I discovered how to sneak in workouts between classes, transforming stairwells into Stairmasters and campus walks into power-walking sessions.

Fast-forward through graduate school, all-nighters (where my study breaks involved planks and push-ups), over a decade at a Fortune 500 company (where I learned that “extreme coffee sipping” is not an official workout, but standing meetings and lunch-hour walks are game-changers), and eventually starting a family business with my husband while raising three wonderful children Through it all, I maintained my fitness by turning everyday moments into exercise opportunities – grocery runs became squat challenges, and playtime with the kids evolved into family fitness fun. Despite my professional path taking me through corporate corridors far from traditional fitness settings, my passion for health and exercise never dimmed. You’ll find me here nearly 40 years deep in the fitness world and trust me when I say I’ve seen more fitness fads come and go than shoulder pads in fashion.

The Secret Power of Consistency

But here’s the kicker: after all these years, the secret to lasting health isn’t found in extreme workouts or fad diets. It’s in the power of the constant commitment to squeezing in movement wherever and whenever you can.

No time? No problem! Don’t let a busy schedule keep you from exercising. Make physical activity a seamless part of your daily routine. I’ve taught countless individuals about the importance of integrating movement into their lives. Whether leading challenging fitness sessions or conducting corporate wellness workshops, I’ve seen firsthand how transforming how you think about movement – seeing it not as a separate task but as an integrated part of living is key to long-term success. It’s fascinating how even the most conditioned athletes can drop the ball and become sedentary when life gets hectic. Instead of finding a way to adapt, they often lose their way. So, let’s flip the script and embrace the idea that a few minutes here and there can add up to significant progress over time!

Small Steps, Big Strides

Let’s break it down, shall we?

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Forget drastic overhauls. We’re talking micro-changes that even your most laid-back friend could manage:

  1. Take the stairs instead of the elevator: Strut up the staircase like a star. A red carpet is optional!
  2. Park a bit farther from your destination: It’s a mini workout disguised as a parking strategy.
  3. Walk during lunch breaks: A chance to catch up with friends and co-workers and get your heart rate up? Win-win!
  4. Swap evening snacks for fruit with yogurt or whipped topping. Because who says healthy can’t be delicious.
  5. Start with 10-minute daily walks: It’s like a commercial break but for your health.
  6. Gradually introduce light strength training: No need to lift heavy weights; start with bodyweight exercises or soup cans in hand while you walk.
  7. Focus on consistency over perfection: It’s better to move regularly than to push yourself so hard you need a week to recover.
  8. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel. If it’s screaming “no more,” adjust your activities accordingly.

The Long Game

Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress through persistent effort. Embrace the journey!

If you stumble, get back up! Consistency is key to achieving lasting results in your fitness journey. Here are some pyramids of wisdom to help you stay committed for the long haul:

  1. Make it a Non-Negotiable Habit: Find your own way to move daily. Sneak in the 10-minute conference call walks, do high knees at the DMV, or dance in the living room – do what works for you!
  2. Celebrate Tiny Triumphs: Did you choose stairs over the elevator or blueberries over Baked Alaska? Do a happy dance; those small victories add up – embrace each triumph!
  3. Life Throws Curveballs; Flex With them: Life happens; schedules change; that isn’t an excuse to be sedentary. Count your steps when chasing your toddler or do bicep curls with grocery bags-keep moving; it all counts!
  4. Have Fun: When you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll stick with it. Find movement that makes you happy!
  5. Buddy Up: Get your own “cheer squad” together for walks, bike rides, yoga sessions, or coffee counter calf raises – there’s magic in moving with friends!
  6. Check In with Your Healthcare Practitioner: Give your healthcare practitioner a shout before starting any exercise routine. They can help ensure you are on the right track!

Final Words

So, here’s the truth: some days you’ll rock it, others you’ll scarcely shuffle. It’s ok! You are showing up, day after day, and that will transform you. Lace up those sneakers and stay the course, one little move at a time. In the future, you will be grateful for every bit of effort you put in! As the fitness landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains clear, consistency is king.