Craig Connole began his career as a costume designer for film and theater but quickly transitioned into the fashion industry when he moved to NYC in 1999. While working as an assistant designer during the day, he took classes at FIT at night to develop his portfolio. His on-the-job training in the garment center in the trim shops and sample rooms created a hard work ethic and a knowledge of the industry at a young age. He went on to design diffusion collections for couture level designers like Marc Bouwer and Monique Lhuillier before taking on the role of design director at Aidan Mattox. Connole’s work has sold at retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bloomindales, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Dillard’s.