Diseñador de moda vs. modisto
The Spanish words 'diseñador de moda' and 'modisto' both refer to professionals in the fashion industry, but they have subtle differences.
Diseñador de moda
'Diseñador de moda' translates directly to 'fashion designer'. It is a broad term used to describe someone who designs clothing, accessories, and often brings in a modern, creative approach to fashion.
María es una conocida diseñadora de moda en París.
(María is a well-known fashion designer in Paris.)
El diseñador de moda presentó su nueva colección en la Semana de la Moda.
(The fashion designer presented his new collection at Fashion Week.)
Los diseñadores de moda suelen trabajar con textiles innovadores.
(Fashion designers often work with innovative textiles.)
Modisto
'Modisto' traditionally means 'dressmaker' and carries a connotation of bespoke tailoring and craftsmanship. It refers to someone who might design and also sew or tailor garments, often for individual clients.
El modisto ajustó el vestido para que le quedara perfecto a la clienta.
(The dressmaker adjusted the dress so it would fit the client perfectly.)
Enrique es un modisto que se especializa en vestidos de novia.
(Enrique is a dressmaker who specializes in wedding dresses.)
Mi abuela visitaba al mismo modisto cada año para confeccionar sus vestidos.
(My grandmother used to visit the same dressmaker every year to have her dresses made.)
Summary
The term 'diseñador de moda' is more modern and widely used to refer to professionals involved in the creative process of fashion design, while 'modisto' usually implies a traditional role with skills in tailoring and creating custom garments.