by Brenda Sexton

A true treasure of a talent, Neithan Herbert is on the cusp of international fame. At just 26 years old, he is quickly being recognized as a world-class fashion designer—and how special for us that he calls San Miguel home. His modest studio at Hernandez Macias 56A may be small, but the visionary designs that emerge from this space are anything but.

Most recently, Neithan's name lit up the global fashion stage when Mexican actress Adriana Paz, known for her role as Epifania in the Oscar-nominated Emilia Perez, wore one of his creations to the 2025 Academy Awards. Her striking, Bardot-inspired red gown was a showstopper, earning him a rightful place among the industry's rising stars.

Neithan with Adriana Paz
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"Seeing my gown on the red carpet at the Academy Awards was surreal", Neithan reflects. "It wasn't just about the dress, it was about everything behind it. Every stitch carried the hands of my team, the love of my family, and the journey that got me here. Growing up, I was told that dreams like this weren't meant for someone like me. So to witness that moment, knowing that my roots, my story, and my craft made it there, it was overwhelming in the best way."

But behind this moment of triumph, Neithan was facing an unimaginable challenge. Just one day before leaving for Los Angeles, an intentional fire devastated one of his workrooms and shop. We still have no idea who could have had these intentions, and it's incredibly worrying," he shares. "Everything I design and create comes from a place of love and respect, so facing something like this has been really difficult. More than anything, we need support right now, and sharing this could help us navigate this tough moment."

Yet, true to his nature, Neithan refuses to let adversity define his path.

Neithan's mother
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His work is deeply rooted in his heritage. His mother, an Inca indigenous woman from Ecuador, has been both his inspiration and collaborator. As head seamstress, she ensures every piece reflects their shared commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. His sister, serving as marketing director, completes the family-run operation.

Neithan and his sister

"Working with my mother and sister is everything. It's not just a brand, it's a shared vision, built from love and respect," he says. "We challenge each other, but always with the same goal: to create something meaningful. My mom, with her wisdom, keeps us rooted. My sister, with her strength, pushes us forward. And I bring the dream, the emotion. It's not always easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

Víctor Hugo sporting a dramatic, elegant NH shirt
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At Neithan Herbert's Live Aqua fashion show
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Neithan's journey began at the prestigious Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan. After graduating, he quickly made waves in the fashion world, showcasing his work at Milan, New York, and Vancouver Fashion Weeks. His designs, a fusion of bold modernity and ancestral artistry, caught the eye of Hola magazine, which featured his 2025 collection on its cover after his first Mexican runway show at Live Aqua Urban Resort last August. He generously donated a portion of the proceeds from that glamorous event to Equinoterapia SMA, a San Miguel charity dedicated to providing therapy to children with special needs.

The fashion show featuring Silver, a star Equinoterapia SMA therapy horse
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Jean Gerber, Founder and Director of Equinoterapia SMA
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"For me, modern design and cultural heritage aren't separate—they coexist," he explains. "My heritage isn't just an influence; it's the foundation. I grew up in San Miguel surrounded by textures, by braids, by the symbolism of community, and that naturally translates into my work. I don't try to incorporate it, it lives in me, and that's what makes my designs feel personal and real. The balance comes from respecting tradition while letting it evolve through my own lens."

San Miguel itself plays a role in shaping his creative process. San Miguel is magic," Neithan says. There's something about the colors, the stillness, the history in every stone that makes you create from a deeper place. It's a town that embraces artistry, and that energy seeps into my work. It allows me to slow down, to be intentional. And at the same time, it keeps me connected to Mexico in a way that feels grounded, no matter where my designs go in the world."

Linda Lane Gonzalez in a dramatic NH cape
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Lisa Gordillo modeling an NH raincoat

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Brenda Sexton and her husband, Greg Nye, have been residents of San Miguel for over 12 years. She is a board member Equinoterapia SMA, and was a founding board member of PAWS Chicago, a thriving no kill animal shelter. They are very active members of the Malanquin Golf Club and The Croquet Club of San Miguel.

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