Tell me about you, where did you grow up, what initially got you into fashion? When did you decide you wanted to go to school for fashion?
I grew up in Los Angeles, and moved to London to study fashion design. I’ve always been interested in art since I was really young and later was introduced to couture fashion designers such as McQueen and Galliano, and I was amazed that fashion could be like art, the idea that you are able to express your ideas into something you could wear. I became obsessed with couture fashion since. I later found out that most of my favourite designers of all time went to study at CSM and wanted to experience a similar environment, and I think moving to London was one of the best decisions I ever made.
What is Central Saint Martins like in terms of both the curriculum and the social life? What are some things you’ve learned while being there? What are some things you wished you learned? most people regard it as the TOP fashion school due to its star studded alumni, does the experience live up to its expectation?
Studying at Central Saint Martins is a very interesting experience because you’re surrounded by so many unique people, all with very different personalities and styles. The entire atmosphere of the school is very distinct and special; incredibly interesting and inclusive. It truly feels like a safe place where you’re free to be whoever you want to be. The classes are also very self-directed, and the projects that are given are all very broad and open-ended. The school really encourages you to freely experiment with any idea you have.
Whats been your most challenging experience in school?
Personally, the part I struggled with the most when I first attended CSM is finding my own individuality amidst all these other creatives. Everyone is so unique that sometimes it’s a lot of pressure to develop your own view and constantly feel like it may not be good enough.
Where would you like to be in the industry in the future?
My goals for the future is to eventually create my own label and also to continue to develop my art, and be able to develop a collection that can be presented alongside my artworks.
Tell me about the pieces you’ve been making, how did you come up with the patterns and how did you envision them being worn?
The patterns of my pieces are inspired by various research that I have gathered and developed through the draping process. Each piece I create is based on a muse that I envisioned. My muses often have an ethereal feel to them, but I have also been trying to experiment with some different styles. I think it’s very interesting that the different styling of the piece completely changes the feel to it.
What are you currently working on? What does it take to graduate from CSM? Do you need to make a graduate collection? Have you thought about what you’re going to do for that.
I’m currently in my placement year and interning for various brands, which has been eye-opening to see how a fashion industry operates. After my placement year, I will be moving onto my final year, which I have to produce a full collection for in order to graduate. I have a few concepts, but still consistently trying to refine and better it.