Who we are
Sandra Calderón
Fashion Designer, Tailor
Hola, I’m Sandra Calderón — a designer, tailor, and couture specialist with over 30 years of experience in the art of garment-making.
I began my journey at just 14 years old, working as a tailor and developing a deep understanding of construction, detail, and discipline. In my early years, I also explored the industry from another perspective through modeling and pageantry — experiences that shaped my eye for form, movement, and presence.
Originally from Costa Rica, my path later took me to the United States, where I expanded my expertise in couture and high-end fashion. I had the opportunity to work alongside renowned designer Randy Fenoli and to be part of the atelier known from Say Yes to the Dress, where I refined my skills in bridal couture and luxury craftsmanship.
My work is grounded in precision, intention, and a deep respect for the hands and stories behind each garment. I believe couture is not only about technique — it is about care, identity, and the legacy each piece carries.
Throughout my career, I have remained committed to a vision of fashion that honours both people and planet. I believe the industry must evolve — moving away from exploitation and excess, and towards fairness, dignity, and sustainability. Every piece I create is part of that change.
As a mother of two boys, I carry a strong sense of responsibility for the world we are shaping. My work is driven by the belief that fashion can — and should — be a force for justice, respect, and lasting impact.
Sara Pestana
CEO, Co-Designer, Social Entrepreneur
Olá, I’m Sara Pestana — social entrepreneur, and CEO and co-designer at SMC Designs.
My work lives at the intersection of human rights, mental health, and ethical fashion. With a master’s degree in Psychology, specialising in psychological interventions, education, and human development, I have dedicated my career to challenging systems that exclude, exploit, and silence.
I began in Portugal, working with vulnerable communities — including children and youth from minority backgrounds, individuals in residential care, and women survivors of human trafficking. These experiences shaped a clear mission: to create solutions that prevent marginalisation, protect dignity, and expand access to support.
Since moving to Norway in 2018, I have continued empowering women and migrant communities through workshops, training, and support spaces designed to build agency and belonging.
In 2020, I founded Humans for Humans, an NGO focused on mental health and human trafficking, working to make support systems more accessible, inclusive, and effective.
Through SMC Designs, I extend this mission into the fashion industry — challenging harmful practices such as exploitation, human trafficking, and waste. By rethinking how clothing is designed and produced, my work seeks to prove that fashion can be both creative and responsible, ethical and transformative.
I believe real change happens when we dare to redesign the systems around us — with people, purpose, and justice at the center.