Empathetic - Detail Orientated - Intentional-

Empathetic - Detail Orientated - Intentional-

A woman smiling, wearing glasses, gold earrings, a brown leather jacket, a white shirt, and a gold necklace, standing against a dark background.

About Me

Hi, I’m Lorena Castro, a first-generation Mexican-American creative based in Chicago

I’d describe myself as an empathetic, detail-oriented, and intentional individual—qualities that shape both my work ethic and my perspective on life

Much of my creative inspiration is deeply rooted in my Latinx cultural background, which I embrace as a way to stay connected to my heritage and advocate for my community.

As my work continues to evolve, I remain guided by my core values of inclusivity, authenticity, and integrity, ensuring they are at the forefront of everything I create.


Patagonia X Columbia College Chicago

Competition Winner

October 2024


Chicago, IL (Fulton Market)

A woman standing next to a fashion mannequin display outside a store, both dressed in winter clothing. The woman is wearing a long black coat, a cream-colored scarf, and high heels. The mannequin is dressed in a colorful sweater, beige and blue layers, and is holding a small bag.

With just four days to design and construct a garment that reflected both Patagonia’s ethos and my personal core values, I embraced the challenge head-on!

Celebratory graphic with mountain background, displaying results of a fashion design competition. First place: Lorena Castro, second: Ciara Brophy, third: Eileen Vivoda, with text congratulating all participants.

The Columbia College Chicago × Patagonia competition pushed Fashion Design students to navigate real-world industry pressure — demanding quick thinking, sustainable design solutions, and a clear creative vision.

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National Retial Federation NRF New York Convention

Scholarhsip Reciepient

October 2025


New York City, NY

Stage with two pink chairs and a small table in front of a large screen displaying a cityscape of New York City with the text 'NRF Foundation New York Student Program 2025' and yellow arrows pointing to the top and right side of the cityscape.

New York, New York!
The city buzzed with energy — and so did I. What does it really take to make it in fashion: hard work, knowledge, or something deeper?

A young woman smiling at a conference stage with a lit cityscape backdrop. She is wearing glasses, a white shirt, and a black blazer, with an event pass around her neck that reads 'Lorena Castro, Columbia College, Chicago, Student.' The stage has two white chairs and the background displays I Heart NY Foundation on New York City skyline.

At the National Retail Federation (NRF) 2025 Conference, I gained firsthand insight into what top fashion brands value today — and where the industry is heading next. From innovation to sustainability, the experience offered a glimpse into the evolving expectations shaping the future of fashion..

Council of Intrnatial Educational Exchange Ciee

Scholarship Recipeint

Summer 2021


Paris, France

Summer 2024


Rome, Italy

Nighttime view of the Eiffel Tower illuminated with gold lights against a dark blue sky, with some tree branches visible on the lower right side.

“Living abroad has been my dream — and I made it come true, twice!”

A group of seven young women and one young man taking a selfie together outdoors on a balcony with a scenic view of trees and mountains in the background.

From navigating new cities to learning new languages, my time abroad through the CIEE Study Abroad Program was more than an experience — it was a transformation. Immersed in cultures far from home, I discovered a deep love for diversity and a renewed curiosity to keep exploring the world around me.

Bottomline Chicago 2025 Alumni

Ambassador Program 

May 2025

Blue backdrop with repeating white text and logos, displaying phrases like "Bottom Line," "Get in. Graduate. Go far," and students' names such as "Hutton Hayes."

What does success look like? For me, it’s helping others reach places they never imagined they could.


Chicago, IL

Two women standing on a stage in front of a blue backdrop with white text. One woman wears a black gown with a satin finish, glasses, and high heels, and the other wears a black suit with a cream blouse and black shoes. Both are smiling.

From high school through college graduation, Bottomline supported me every step of the way. As a first-generation Latina student, I initially felt at a disadvantage navigating the college admissions process. Bottomline’s resources and personalized mentorship helped me secure a full-ride scholarship to Columbia College Chicago. 

Today, I am thrilled to give back as a Bottomline Student Ambassador, helping others navigate their own paths to success.

For Women By Women Gallery 

Exhibiting Artis

Summer 2024


Chicago, Il

Summer 2025

Women Uplifting Women!


Chicago, Il

Pattern of repeated words 'GALLERY' and 'FWWB' in black and pink on a white background.
Three women with different skin tones and hair styles posing together against a plain background, dressed in colorful outfits with vibrant makeup.
A mannequin wearing a Patagonia jacket with a colorful patterned collar, in front of a wall with photographs and informational posters related to Patagonia and Columbia College Chicago.

I had the privilege of participating in both the 2nd and 3rd annual For Women By Women Gallery, a showcase dedicated to celebrating women’s work. My contributions included “La Playa” and an upcycled design for Columbia College Chicago X Patagonia, both of which reflect my commitment to diversity, sustainability, and women-led creativity.