Roger and Mauricio Padilha

There is a reason that brothers Roger and Mauricio Padilha had unparalleled access to the Stephen Sprouse archives/estate and why they were the ones who created The Stephen Sprouse Book that debuted this year to huge success and championship by none other than Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton. They are a quiet powerhouse of knowledge and appreciation of all things fashion and art. I say "quiet" because they are both soft spoken but there is no messing around-they know their stuff.
I absolutely remember first meeting Roger when he walked into the back design area at Betsey Johnson in the late nineties as he took his desk as the Betsey Johnson eveningwear designer. I knew who he was then because I remembered the article in Elle magazine profiling his clothing line Spooky. I also remember the long days of bedazzling these platforms for one of the Betsey fashion shows too (a few years back I saw a pair at a vintage store in the lower east side from our rhinestone session.)
Roger and Mauricio went on to create MAO PR, their press/production fashion company where since the beginning they have been the support system/management team and cheerleaders of new designers. They were the original force behind the popularity and success of Heatherette and another designer by the name of Jason Wu who this year has become a household name due to his dress being worn by First Lady Michelle Obama on inaguration night. The Blonds are currently reaping the rewards of their support as well. I can't turn on the tv or open a magazine w/o seeing The Blonds clothing on Katy Perry or being featured on shows such as Top Model.
So nice and charming are the Padilha brothers that Roger famously put up with the most ridiculous questions by none other than Bruno (yes, Sasha Baron Cohen) on tv. I remember watching that on HBO and I know why Roger didn't storm off after being posed the silliest of questions-it's because he is a gentleman who wouldn't dare dream of offending anyone.
Roger and Mauricio also create MAO mag, this amazing publication that spotlights everyone that should be known in fashion and art from the past-from Peter Max to Veruschka.
This year I was so happy to see all of the press, respect and accolades from the fashion community that has been long overdue to the Padilha brothers who have created behind the scenes for a very long time now. Many designers owe a huge debt of gratitude to them for their guidance, support and professionalism.
Well done.
And get well soon to Armando, the mascot of MAO pr!