The New Jersey fashion community, luxury retail landscape, and a multi-generation network of style devotees are mourning the loss of Gina Curko. A visionary entrepreneur, world-class personal stylist, and celebrated community advocate, Gina passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The heart-wrenching announcement was shared publicly by her daughters on behalf of the Curko family through her famous retail brand, SeeSaw Luxury Women’s Retailer, prompting a massive wave of condolences from local families, prominent designers, and clients nationwide.
A Lifelong Dream and a Legacy of Empowerment
In Memoriam: Gina Curko (Passed Away: June 28, 2026)
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Hometown/Base : Englewood Cliffs & Tenafly, New Jersey
Professional Title : Founder, CEO, and Master Celebrity Stylist
Retail Brand : SeeSaw Luxury Women’s Retailer (Est. 2003)
Alma Mater : The Wood Tobe Coburn School (AOS in Business, 1987)
Corporate Background : Former Merchandise Manager, The Neiman Marcus Group
Community Honors : Women's Rights Information Center "Community Change Maker"
Core Family Legacy : Survived by her daughters, who will continue SeeSaw
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From Neiman Marcus to Global Fashion Curator
Gina’s path to becoming a premier style icon began with rigorous professional preparation. She earned an Associate of Occupational Studies degree in Business, Management, and Marketing from The Wood Tobe Coburn School in 1987. She then spent years refining her instincts as an elite merchant and merchandise manager for The Neiman Marcus Group until 2002.
In January 2003, Gina stepped out on her own entrepreneurial journey to launch SeeSaw. Her goal was simple yet revolutionary for local suburban retail: create an experiential fashion destination that completely demystified high fashion, dressing clients expertly from head to toe. For nearly 24 years, she operated as a highly trusted personal selector, expanding SeeSaw into a multi-million dollar business with storefront footprints across towns like Tenafly, Fort Lee, and eventually expanding its central operational pulse into Englewood Cliffs.
Tracking the “Diamond in the Rough” Across Paris and Milan
Gina became a powerhouse in the apparel market by offering total exclusivity. Twice a year, she traveled across the Atlantic to attend elite runway shows and private designer showrooms in Paris and Milan.
The SeeSaw Retail Strategy & Cultural Footprint
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[ European Scouting ] --> Personally curated rare, avant-garde European labels
before they ever secured standard American distribution.
[ The Personal Touch ] --> Abandoned traditional transactional retail in favor of
holistic, full-ensemble styling tailored to body type.
[ Media Recognition ] --> Hand-curated styling and inventory regularly profiled
nationally in *InStyle* and *Industry Magazine*.
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Her true joy came from finding distinct, one-of-a-kind luxury brands that had not yet crossed over to the United States marketplace. Her personal philosophy—“See it… Saw it… Bought it…”—became the actual fabric of her community. She frequently noted that receiving late-night text messages from ecstatic clients telling her their outfits were a “smash hit” was the ultimate reward for her labor.
A True Community Leader and “Change Maker”
Gina’s impact extended far beyond the walls of her boutique. She believed deeply in using fashion as a tool to raise self-confidence and empower women from all backgrounds. She frequently donated gift cards to local schools, outfitted youth for neighborhood charity fashion shows, and supported regional philanthropic initiatives.
In May 2019, the Women’s Rights Information Center (WRIC) officially recognized her profound public contributions by honoring her with the prestigious “Community Change Maker” Award at their 45th anniversary gala in Hackensack. During the celebration, she spoke about the importance of creating supportive, safe environments where women could build independent financial security and look each other in the eye with mutual respect.
Keeping the Dream Alive
Gina Curko viewed her store not just as a business, but as her absolute calling in life. In a beautifully written family tribute, her daughters expressed the profound impact of her life’s work:
“I wanted to share just how incredibly impactful this community was to her. Having the opportunity to make women feel beautiful was something she was absolutely born to do. She truly had a gift. SeeSaw was her dream come true, and my sister and I will continue to grow the special legacy she built. I want to thank each and every one of you for being such a meaningful part of my mom’s life.”
The Curko family has asked for privacy, love, and understanding as they temporarily pause operations to honor Gina’s immense legacy. They look forward to welcoming their global style family back to SeeSaw as soon as they are ready.