The work of fashion designer Nina Verklas was first featured in Fashion Week Tampa Bay when she was a student at the International Academy of Design and Academy here in Tampa two years ago. Since then she has started her own design company, Bambina by N.V., and created a dress for arguably the edgiest fashionista today, Lady Gaga (more on that later). Not bad for a 22-year-old.

With plenty of low-cut gowns in soft shiny fabrics for evening, alongside more structured tops and pant looks, Nina’s designs can be described as a seamless blend of sexy, elegance and rocker-chic.

“I’m inspired by different things from National Geographic to modern interior design, and my goal is to always be pushing the envelope,” says Nina.

We chatted with Nina last week to find out more about her style and inspirations, and about that Lady Gaga thing.

We’ve noticed that your style is very rocker-chic. How would you describe this year’s collection?

For both my Fall and Resort collection the rocker-chic style has dominated my frame of mind. My personal style is always sexy, daring and willing to push the envelop in a beautiful or "ugly pretty" way. "Rockin' Retreat," my Resort collection, will be featured in this year's Fashion Week Tampa Bay. The inspiration came from what we know and love about the rock star lifestyle infused with muses Kate Moss and Rob-Bryan, model and best friend. The collection takes you through outfits that are great throughout the day and fade into evening and then sexy swim wear for a night swim.  For the everyday woman these pieces can complement their wardrobe and make a statement among others.

As a Florida-based designer, how, if at all, do your surroundings reveal themselves in your designs?

Living in South Florida I am drawn to designing sexy clothing, that is what Miami is known for. I grew up here so I know what people want to wear. It is hot so they want to show off some skin and be comfortable no matter how hot it is because they are hot stuff. With so many diverse cultures I can't help but be inspired by their tropical lifestyles surrounding me. Recently, I have gained interest in designing swimwear because of the large market and demand here.

We read somewhere that you had recently designed and hand-sewn an outfit for Lady Gaga. That’s pretty wild. Tell us about that experience.

I went to Lady Gaga's concert on Jan. 2, 2010, and gave her this beautiful costume piece I had been working on for months. It was a silver and black a-symmetrical body suit with hand sewn applique, silver beads and long fringe. It was my interpretation of what she would wear on stage. She said she loved it, thanked me and gave me a hug. I wanted to cry because I am a true style fan of hers. I check frequently to see if she has worn it but I have no confirmation that she has worn it yet. I know one day I will make her designs that she will wear on stage or on the red carpet. I get her style and I have what it takes to create things out of this world if I had the chance.

What’s the best thing about being in this industry?

Being able to share your point of view with the world is the best part about being in this industry. I get inspired by everything and anything around me, and I love sharing my point of view from that inspiration. People may love it or hate it but it is my point of view.

What’s your favorite thing about Tampa Bay’s fashion scene?

My favorite thing about Tampa Bay's fashion scene is that it is growing more and more every year. When I moved there in 2006 I didn't know about all the potential. Eventually there were events at local art galleries like ArtPool and Tampa Artist Emporium. Then Fashion Week Tampa Bay started and its been growing since.

Look for Bambina by N.V. this Friday at the Fashion Week Tampa Bay boutique and runway shows. For more info: www.fashionweektampabay.com

This article appears in Sep 16-22, 2010.