Tony Gomez

Tony Gomez is the owner of Twins Pleating & Smocking, a Los Angeles studio specializing in artisanal pleating and smocking. A twin and the eldest of four children to Mexican immigrant parents, Tony grew up in Pico Rivera, California, in a bustling household that often held more than 20 relatives under one roof. While surrounded by the challenges of a working-class neighborhood, he chose early on to focus on education as his path forward.

In 2002, Tony and his twin brother became the first in their family to attend a major university. Tony earned his degree in Law & Society from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and later pursued advanced Hispanic studies at Universidad Complutense de Madrid, where he developed a love for travel, fútbol, and global culture. His original plan was to pursue an MBA, but life took a different turn when he stepped in to help his father, who had founded Twins Pleating & Smocking in 1995. At that time, the business was on the brink of collapse with only a few thousand dollars left. Together with his family, Tony rallied resources, borrowed money, and worked tirelessly to keep the company alive.

Drawing on his leadership experience from his fraternity years and marketing coursework at UCLA Extension, Tony helped rebuild the business alongside his father. Over time, Twins Pleating & Smocking grew into a trusted studio that now collaborates with world-renowned designers, luxury fashion houses, and Hollywood costume teams. From Met Gala looks and red carpet premieres to blockbuster films, the studio has become a hidden force behind some of fashion’s most iconic moments.

Today, Tony is committed to preserving the art of pleating and smocking while carrying forward his father’s legacy. He is passionate about slow fashion and sustainability, advocating for integrity and craftsmanship in an industry often driven by fast trends. Looking ahead, Tony’s goal is to expand the reach of Twins Pleating & Smocking, continue innovating with textile design, and share his journey to inspire other entrepreneurs who are navigating the challenges of building something lasting.