Natali Germanotta, an up-and-coming costume designer, has brought her passion for creating dazzling stage costumes to Las Vegas with the grand opening of On Stage Essentials.
As the younger sister of the iconic Lady Gaga, Natali has found a unique collaboration with her sibling, who has willingly participated in helping bring her visions to life.
“I’ve been like so grateful to make like and work with her on so many different costumes, and it’s been just such an amazing experience, also to be able to work with, like your sister or family,” Germanotta shared.
This experience has forged a special bond between the sisters, one that Natali treasures deeply.
While many might see her as simply Lady Gaga’s sister, Germanotta has the professional training and credentials to stand on her own merit.
Together with her husband, Alex Dolan, who is also an accomplished event and documentary photographer,
and Emmy Award-winning designer Perry Meek, Germanotta founded the costume and supply outlet to meet the demands of Las Vegas’s vibrant entertainment scene.
Located at 3550 E. Post Road, the store is designed for those who “bring entertainment to life,” serving both industry professionals and the general public.
It offers an array of rhinestones, feathers, fabrics, and other costume essentials, making it a one-stop shop for performers.
On Stage Essentials will celebrate its grand opening with VIP events planned over the weekend.
Both Germanotta and Dolan are alumni of the prestigious Parsons School of Design, and the couple recently tied the knot in June 2024.
Germanotta, as founder of New York’s Topo design studio, has a notable history of working with her sister on high-profile projects, including Lady Gaga’s famous “Jazz + Piano” and “Enigma” residencies, as well as her touring performances for the “Chromatica Ball” and “Joanne” tours.
Moreover, she contributed to Gaga’s appearances, like the iconic moment at the 2023 Grammy Awards when the superstar wore a stunning teal crepe and black-satin silk velvet dress designed by Germanotta for her red carpet moment.
Interestingly, the collaboration extends beyond her sister.
Germanotta has also designed costumes for other notable artists, including Gwen Stefani, Brandi Carlisle, and the rising star Austin Butler, recognized for his portrayal of Elvis in the recent biopic.
As Dolan leads the business operations, ensuring smooth design flow and digital strategies,
Germanotta’s family involvement is evident through her father, Joe, and New York marketing executive Gabby Gabriel, who co-founded Second Wind Media to help stage the launch event.
Originally, the idea for a costume shop came about five years ago during a time when Dolan became more active in the project, coinciding with Lady Gaga’s engagement at Park Theater/Dolby Live.
Dolan explained the inspiration behind On Stage Essentials, stating, “Whenever we would come to work in Las Vegas, we had a lot of difficulties and challenges finding materials and supplies in a timely fashion.”
This insight into the challenges that performers face informed their decision to create a supportive space for both established and emerging artists.
The mission of On Stage Essentials is to cater not only to international and national touring artists but also to provide resources for local, smaller artists.
“We want to support all the local, smaller artists, too, which there are plenty to go around,” Dolan emphasized.
The couple balances their time between New York and their Vegas business while immersing themselves in the local entertainment scene.
They have attended several performances, including Cirque du Soleil’s shows “O” and “Ka,” where they were able to study the costumes up close.
“Oh my God, it was incredible, we got to see the costumes up close,” Germanotta said, reflecting on their experiences.
The couple intends to continue conducting research on the current productions in Las Vegas, adapting and evolving alongside the thriving arts community.
Germanotta expressed her admiration for the entertainment industry in Vegas, stating, “Vegas has always been this, like, incredible place for the entertainment industry and performances, and it’s just growing and growing.”
With On Stage Essentials, they aim to create a welcoming environment for everyone, whether they are experienced professionals or just starting on their creative journey.
“We want people to walk into our store and feel welcomed, supported, inspired, no matter what their level of experience is,” she added.
image source from：neon
