Life & Work with Alicia Rau of Highlands Ranch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Rau

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up in a wonderfully creative environment where my mom and grandmother encouraged me to embrace my uniqueness from a young age. At 9 years old I received my first sewing machine, and by my teenage years when I couldn’t find the clothing I wanted in stores, my mom and I would make them ourselves. There were no limits to what we could create – no idea was too far-fetched. That early experience shaped my out-of-the-box thinking and fueled my passion for design.

After high school, I moved to Los Angeles to attend FIDM. Living in Downtown LA, I fell in love with the energy of the Fashion District. Walking down Santee Street for hours, I would immerse myself in the vibrant colors of the fabrics, the buzz of the people, and the eclectic jewelry – the whole scene felt like home.

My love for fashion never faded, but it was reignited in 2017 after the passing of my grandfather. This is when I decided to launch Bête Noire – a brand that not only honors my creative spirit but also celebrates my family’s legacy. Bête Noire is about more than just fashion; it’s a community for those who want to express their individuality through style. We offer couture-quality suits, gowns, accessories, and more – all with a focus on empowering people to embrace their unique selves, no matter their age.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has been largely smooth, though not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been finding the courage to stay true to myself and my vision in an industry that isn’t always welcoming. Growing up in a biracial family, I founded Bête Noire with a deep commitment to inclusion and diversity. I’ve learned that those who remain authentic to their values often face greater obstacles in accessing mainstream opportunities.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Bête Noire specializes in high-quality, upscale dark fashion, with a particular focus on avant-garde couture gowns and accessories. We’ve built a reputation for bringing bold, visionary designs to life, and many of our clients come to us seeking someone who truly understands and supports their unique vision. I thrive on transforming the “impossible” into reality. I believe our commitment to creativity and craftsmanship truly sets us apart in the fashion industry.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to let go of how others perceive me. Instead of allowing external opinions to define my self-worth or guide my decisions, I’ve focused on prioritizing my own values, aspirations, and authenticity. By embracing who I am without seeking validation, I’ve cultivated a deeper sense of confidence in living my truth.

Pricing:

• Off-the-rack wedding gowns range from $149-$3000.
• Couture/custom design wedding gowns start at $1800 and go up based on difficulty.
• Accessories range from $40-$180.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shopbetenoire.com
• Instagram: @betenoireshop
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betenoireshop
• Other: Tiktok: @betenoireshop

Image Credits
@Sven_blackheart / @blackheart_media_productions, Amanda Chiu, Katie Puc Photography