In 1997, the Chilean-born, New York-based designer Maria Cornejo transformed a raw space in Nolita into an atelier to launch her collection of ready-to-wear, Zero + Maria Cornejo. Her uncompromising and very personal approach to womenswear has gained her a loyal following and high praise from clients that include fashion-forward A-listers Tilda Swinton, Michelle Williams, Sofia Coppola, Marisa Tomei and Cameron Diaz. Featuring architectural dresses and beautifully tailored jackets, the label has caused a stir with its minimalist aesthetic and has earned industry recognition such as the Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt National Design Award in 2006.