A winning tote, designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

Students help raise funds for the Gay Straight Alliance Network during San Francisco Pride Week

San Francisco, CA, June 23, 2015 – This summer Academy of Art University School of Fashion is partnering with local activist Juanita MORE! in her effort to raise money in support of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer (LGBTQ) community during San Francisco Pride Week. MORE!, a celebrated drag performer, fundraises with a variety of LGBTQ organizations each year in conjunction with Pride Week and has chosen to raise money for the Youth Empowerment Summit (Y.E.S.) for her annual Pride Party on June 28.

One of the winning tote designs by Yi Chun Shih. Photo by Bob Toy.

Eight School of Fashion Textile Design students from the Applied Textiles 3 course have hand-printed imagery inspired by MORE! and her French Bulldog, Jackson, on 32 100% organic cotton tote bags made in the U.S. with eco-friendly, water-based ink. MORE! selected her four favorite bags to be produced locally by Morrison Productions and distributed to select retailers in San Francisco; the winning totes are currently for sale at Sui Generis Consignment, Unionmade, ATYS Contemporary Design, s16 Home, Asterisk San Francisco and M.A.C. Modern Appealing Clothing. The bags are priced at $25 and all proceeds will go to Y.E.S.

One of the winning tote designs by Yun Ling Tham. Photo by Bob Toy.

A winning tote, designed by Jiawei Tang. Photo by Bob Toy.

“I am excited to be collaborating with the textile class at Academy of Art University,” said MORE!. “I talked to the students at the beginning of the semester about Pride and the non-profit Y.E.S. When I returned at the end of the semester I thought I was only going to view about a dozen totes, and when I saw that there were over 30 totes on display I was incredibly impressed. I was in disbelief that I was the inspiration behind all of the amazing artwork. Picking just one tote to produce was impossible – so I choose four of them! I hope we work together again next year!”

The remaining 28 totes are being sold at Academy of Art University’s store, SHOP657, as one-of-a-kind items for $15 each with all proceeds going to Y.E.S. SHOP657, located at 657 Sutter Street, is open Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 1- 6 p.m.

“Academy of Art University was founded in San Francisco and is very rooted in this city’s culture,” said Rhona MacKenzie, Assistant Director of Textiles at Academy of Art University School of Fashion. “Our students are always looking for ways to get involved in the community and to support Y.E.S. during a relevant period of time for the LGBTQ community was valuable opportunity.”

Tote Images: http://bit.ly/1dc6Wo6 (Photos by Bob Toy)

A tote design featuring Juanita MORE!’s dog, by Payton Rissman. Photo by Bob Toy.

One of the tote designs featuring Juanita MORE!’s French Bulldog Jackson, by Sho Littlefield. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Alverina Eka Weinardy. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Alverina Eka Weinardy. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Jenny Johansson. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Jenny Johansson. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Jenny Johansson. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Jenny Johansson. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi Chun Shih. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi Chun Shih. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi Chun Shih. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi Chun Shih. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Jiawei Tang. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Payton Rissman. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Payton Rissman. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Payton Rissman. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Payton Rissman. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yi-Hsuen Kuo. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Sho Littlefield. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yun Ling Tham. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yun Ling Tham. Photo by Bob Toy.

A tote designed by Yun Ling Tham. Photo by Bob Toy.

About Youth Empowerment Summit (Y.E.S.)

Y.E.S. is a free annual conference for LGBTQ and ally youth activists who are dedicated to racial, economic, and educational justice for trans and queer youth under the guidance of Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Network. Y.E.S. ensures that queer youth and their allies have the necessary tools and information to confront adversity on all levels, whether in the classroom, at home, or on the street. GSA Network is a next-generation LGBTQ racial and gender justice organization that empowers and trains LGBTQ and allied youth leaders to advocate, organize and mobilize an intersectional movement for safer schools and healthier communities. 

About Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University, the largest private university of art and design in the United States, is educating students for the art and design jobs of the 21^st century. Established in 1929, the Academy is an output-based higher education model that provides an inclusive admissions policy to all students, but imposes a rigorous curriculum that requires the students to produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates a mastery of their field in order to graduate. Students are taught by a faculty of professionals from the existing marketplace, online and on campus in San Francisco, who provide them with an understanding of what it takes to succeed in today’s business environment. The Academy’s hands-on curriculum produces graduates who possess outstanding artistic and design skills—and equally as important, the ability to put those talents to work immediately after graduation. As a result, Academy graduates are ready to compete for and win the jobs of the 21^st century in the fields of Acting, Advertising, Animation & Visual Effects, Architecture, Art Education, Art History, Costume Design, Fashion, Fashion Journalism, Fashion Styling, Fine Art, Game Design, Game Programming, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture & Design, Jewelry & Metal Arts, Landscape Architecture, Motion Pictures & Television, Multimedia Communications, Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media, Photography, Studio Production for Advertising & Design, Visual Development, Web Design & New Media and Art Teaching Credential, and Writing for Film, Television & Digital Media. Academy of Art University is accredited by WASC, NASAD, Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) (BFA/MFA-IAD), NAAB (B-ARCH*, M-ARCH), California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). *program in candidacy status.

About the School of Fashion

Approximately 2,500 fashion students study under the guidance of experienced fashion professionals in the School of Fashion, which houses the following areas of specialization: Fashion Design for Womenswear, Menswear and Childrenswear; Technical Design; Textile Design; Knitwear Design; Accessory Design; Costume Design; Fashion Illustration; Fashion Journalism; Fashion Marketing; Fashion Styling; and Fashion and Visual Merchandising.

The University works with international brands and recruitment agencies on internships and job placement. Graduates have gone on to such companies as Abercrombie & Fitch, Adidas, Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Banana Republic, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Blanc de Chine, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Corso Como 10, Chloë, Diane von Fürstenberg, Donna Karan, Gap, Kate Spade, Kiton, L.A.M.B., L’Ecole Lesage Paris–Atelier de Broderie, Liz Claiborne, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Martin Margiela, Martine Sitbon, Missoni, Nike, Nordstrom, The North Face, Old Navy, Oscar de la Renta, Phillip Lim, Pottery Barn, Ralph Lauren, Reebok, Roland Mouret, St. John, Threeasfour, Tocca, Viktor & Rolf, and Williams-Sonoma.

Guests to the School of Fashion include Azzedine Alaïa, Prosper and Martine Assouline, Max and Lubov Azria of BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Yigal Azrouël, Geoffrey Beene, Rose Marie Bravo, Sarah Burton, Andrew Buckler, Julie Chaiken, The Honorable Bertrand Delanoë Mayor of Paris, David Downton, Steven Cox and Daniel Silver of Duckie Brown, Patrik Ervell, Loulou de la Falaise, James Galanos, Joan Kaner, Humberto Leon and Carol Lim of Opening Ceremony, Antonio Lopez, Fern Mallis, Alexander McQueen, Rosita and Tai Missoni, Angela Missoni, Margherita Maccapani Missoni, Isaac Mizrahi, Josie Natori, Ian Hannula and Joe Haller of N.I.C.E. Collective, Elisa Palomino, Laure du Pavillon, Zac Posen, Oscar de la Renta, Zandra Rhodes CBE, Ralph Rucci, Nathalie Rykiel, HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, Jeremy Scott, Carla Sozzani, Philip Treacy, Walter Van Beirendonck, Dirk van Saene, and Dame Vivienne Westwood DBE, as well as Christophe Girard Director of Fashion Strategy of LVMH Fashion Group, Robin Givhan, Cathy Horyn, and Suzy Menkes.

About the School of Fashion Executive Director

Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University, graduated from Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in 1992 and was awarded the prestigious M.A. Degree in Fashion with Distinction. He collaborated with Alexander McQueen on the first 10 collections shown in London and New York, and personally introduced Sarah Burton, Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, to the late designer. In 2002, he was named Creative Director of Member Holiday, a Korean-based contemporary brand, launching both men’s and women’s collections with 37 freestanding stores. His work experience spans fashion design, textile design, forecasting, brand development, and marketing for such clients as Givenchy, Paul Smith, and Versace. In addition to his duties as the Executive Director of the School of Fashion overseeing both M.F.A. and B.F.A. programs, he is the editorial director of the School of Fashion’s 180 magazine, as well as the executive producer of the annual Graduation Fashion Show and Awards Ceremony in San Francisco and the biannual fashion shows during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center in New York City. Currently, Ungless operates two artisanal design companies, When Simon Met Ralph, which focuses on apparel, and Blackened, which centers on accessories and home. Both projects are the culmination of Ungless’ inspirational development work over his career. 

School of Fashion at Academy of Art University

79 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

Call 800.544.2787 (U.S. only) or 415.274.2200

Academy of Art University: http://www.academyart.edu/

School of Fashion: http://www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion

In-house Press Contacts

Ian MacKintosh / 415.618.3849 / imackintosh@academyart.edu

Jeanette Peach / 415.618.3891 / jepeach@academyart.edu

Chloe Preussker / 415.618.3831 / cpreussker@academyart.edu

 Social Media Channels

Fashion School Daily: http://www.fashionschooldaily.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/academyofartfashion

Twitter: http://twitter.com/aaufashion

Instagram: aaufashion

The online platform opens the entry period for its fully crowdsourced fashion show.

 Starting June 23, VFILES MADE FASHION opens the entry period for the fifth installment of its highly anticipated, fully site-sourced fashion show. Through July 24^th, the best young creatives in the industry—designers, stylists, makeup artists, photographers,  hair stylists, and models can upload their work for chance to showcase their talent on fashion’s most energetic stage — kicking off New York Fashion Week.

Winners Include:

• Designers
• A Stylist
• A Make Up Artist
• A Hair Stylist
• A Photographer
• Models

To select the winners, the VFILES editorial team, as well as a group of prestigious mentors, review each submission based on vision, relevance, and saleability. In addition, each winner across categories will be judged on his/her ability to inspire and work with the VFILES community. A team of mentors will also be participating in the selection process; previous mentors include Stylist Mel Ottenberg, legendary fashion editor Candy Pratts Price, Calvin Klein Collection menswear designer Italo Zucchelli, W Magazine digital director Dirk Standen, and make up artist James Kaliardos. .

In addition to showing at VFILES MADE FASHION, the winning designers will receive one complimentary season in the VFILES THIRD FLOOR Showroom. The VFILES THIRD FLOOR is a sales, PR and brand incubator for a select group of future designers poised for global recognition. The VFILES THIRD FLOOR guides their brands through every aspect of the fashion industry; using the showroom to present collections to appropriate buyers, accelerating revenue growth, increasing saleability, growing brand awareness, and providing access to marketing platforms, resources and corporate relationships.

Over the past four seasons, VFILES MADE FASHION has catapulted cult fashion brands including DI$COUNT UNIVER$E, XIMONLEE, Andrea Jiapei Li, Julia Seemann, Hyein Seo, ASSK, Sam MC London and Melitta Baumeister to mainstream success. But this is nothing new for VFILES. Since its founding in 2012, the on and offline platform has catalyzed the careers of young, vibrant fashion talent from around the globe and now serves as a vital talent clearinghouse and design resource for industry and pop culture heavyweights. VFILES designers are stocked at 100+ stores in 15 countries and have dressed Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Rita Ora, Naomi Campbell and even costumed The Hunger Games Trilogy.

ABOUT VFILES

VFILES is a next generation global media company and social network attracting a global youth audience of influential millennial thinkers. The company is rapidly disrupting the status quo of a traditionally offline fashion industry by shifting power directly to users and creating ways for brands to directly dialogue with a millennial audience, in person and online.

Founded in 2012, VFILES’ mission is to give fashion people the power to share, connect, shop, and watch fun and compelling original content online. VFILES is disrupting the US & global fashion market worth in excess of US$1.5 trillion as it offers brands and fashion industry participants a multi-platform media environment to reach the next generation of customers and continued brand relevance. VFILES is a unique proposition as it is the only fashion and social media platform that services its community with social media, content and ecommerce/retail and live events.

Ever feel like you need a crash course in legal issues and how they apply to building a successful fashion brand?  The Fashion Law Institute runs a summer intensive program, Fashion Law Bootcamp, for design professionals and students from all over the world, and it provides a comprehensive introduction to the substance of style, from intellectual property and international trade to sustainability, funding, and wearable tech.  Fashion Law Bootcamp – West Coast Edition is organized in collaboration with Levi Strauss & Co., and a full-tuition scholarship is available to the Academy of Art Univeristy community. Applications are open now, but hurry — Fashion Law Bootcamp starts soon!

DETAILS

WHEN:  August 3-8 (Monday-Friday 4-7:30pm, Saturday 10-7pm, plus optional field trips and a closing dinner).

WHERE:  Most classroom sessions will take place at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, 55 Stockton Street, San Francisco.

WHO:  Designers or their non-attorney employees are eligible to apply for a full scholarship ($3,900 value).

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE:  As soon as possible! Fashion Law Bootcamp starts August 3rd, and applications will be considered on a rolling basis in the order received.

Click here to apply now!   Under the last question, “Scholarship application (designers only)?” click  “Yes” and then submit.  (You can ignore the PayPal form — once you click “Submit Application,” you’re all set.)

More details about Bootcamp here, and about the Fashion Law Institute here.

Join Bespoke at Westfield San Francisco Centre each Friday throughout the month of August to meet Project Runway Season 14 designer Jake Wall of JAKE beginning Aug. 7 through Sept 4, for an exclusive Q&A interview following the airing of each new Project Runway episode!

Jake Wall will be interviewed on stage from 4:30-5:30 p.m., about the previous night’s Project Runway episode, and how key learnings/themes have impacted his current fashion design approach. Each talk will be followed by a public meet and greet with Jake, held in Bespoke demo from 5:30-6 p.m. In addition, don’t miss exclusive live showcases of the hottest looks from JAKE’s latest Indiegogo clothing campaign, which will launch in conjunction with the weekly events.

WHEN

• Friday, Aug. 7 – 4:30-6 p.m. PT; Meet #DesignerJAKE at Bespoke Series Kick-Off with Exclusive interview with Jake Wall hosted by Maghan McDowell from Women’s Wear Daily
• Friday, Aug. 14 – 4:30-6 p.m. PT; “An Unconventional Approach to the Fashion Industry” with exclusive interview with Jake Wall– host TBA
• Friday, Aug 21 – 4:30-6 p.m. PT; “Designing for Destinations” with exclusive interview with Jake Wall – host TBA
• Friday, Aug. 28 – 4:30-6 p.m. PT; “Inspired by Your Surroundings – Designing for Your Environment” with exclusive interview with Jake Wall – host TBA
• Friday, Sept. 4 at 11:30 AM –  Finale Fashion Show in partnership with Bloomingdales featuring special Project Runway guest

Get free tickets here!

Have questions? Contact Bespoke at Westfield San Francisco Centre

Spring 2015, BFA Photography alumnus Anthony Rogers; Image Courtesy of Anthony Rogers

BFA Photography student Anthony Rogers has pursued fashion photography with passion. He realized early on in his college career his interest in both fashion and photography and tried to combine the two. He was an intern at Ford Models, did a work study as a fashion photographer for the School of Fashion’s Styling program, and worked as a freelance photographer to get his feet wet. Currently, he is creating a whole new field for himself by sustaining his work at 7×7 media and his own magazine, BobCut Mag.

Fashion School Daily: What prompted you to study photography at Academy of Art University?

Anthony Rogers: I wanted to study at Academy of Art University simply because the program had great accreditation and also for the fact that it didn’t have a portfolio entrance policy. My work was the worst when I first got here.

FSD: Your overall work seems to be focused on fashion. Is there any reason you decided to pursue fashion photography? Do you ever do other kinds of photography?

AR: I pursued fashion photography because it was the most engaging type of photography for me. I’ve been a big fan of the industry of both photography and fashion so marrying the two just worked. My work in the most recent months has moved on into fashion portraiture. So currently I’m exploring that and giving myself more freedom to create than I’ve had in other years.

FSD: What other internships or jobs have you had? Have they been all fashion related?

AR: I was an intern at Ford Models for a quick minute, a work study for the Academy of Art University Styling program and currently I’m an editorial assistant at 7×7 media. They have all had elements of fashion sprinkled through out but mainly content and media based.

7 x 7 Media office; Image Courtesy of Anthony Rogers

FSD: You’re currently interning at 7×7 Magazine. Can you tell us a little bit about the internship? What is your daily routine, what tasks do you handle? Is your internship just photography based or are you doing other things as well?

AR: Of course, I’m currently an editorial assistant at 7×7. I assist, write, proofread, shoot and fact check for the managing editor and for the CEO. As far as a daily routine, I come in, set up the blog promo’s (the overhead clickables on the site) and begin drafting posts for publication. I read 5 – 10 press releases a day and make the call on what is good for publishing and what we can skip on. I shoot for the site whenever we need better images for the story at hand or when we’re covering something exclusive.

FSD: Do you work alone or as a team? How much autonomy do you have in what you decide to work on?

AR: We work as a close knit team, I sit next to the advertising manager, diagonal from me is the managing editor, and across the way from me is the accounts receivable lead with the CEO in the next room. The team is very high profile and it makes me strive to work as hard as I can! 7×7 really values its intern’s opinions because when covering San Francisco happenings we need all hands and voices on deck to really bring light to some amazing people and places here in the city.

FSD: What is the 7×7 office like? Do you spend most of your time in the office or do you get to go out on shoots?

AR: The office is small but very warm (metaphorically) at the same time. We all get along very well and laugh, but it can be serious and super fast-paced when it needs to be. I work 9 – 5 three days out the week and when I’m not there, I’m working from home!

Anthony Rogers; Image Courtesy of Anthony Rogers

FSD: What is it like to work at a magazine? Is it how you expected, or do any aspects of the company surprise you?

AR: Working for a magazine has been really helpful for my professional life both in photography and writing. I’m learning to write editorially and learning to shoot for what they need. Working there has really helped me gain my voice in the magazine field. I’m also learning advertising and the business behind running a magazine. Great experience thus far!

FSD: What was the most challenging duty at 7X7 magazine? How did you handle it?

AR: Honestly, I can safely say nothing has been overly challenging! The managing editor (Sarah Medina) is so sweet and when I have questions she knows exactly what needs to happen and I get to ask her questions from my own curiosity as well, which makes the working environment more inviting!

FSD: What do you think the biggest takeaways from your internship are?

AR: My biggest takeaway is definitely the fact that running a magazine isn’t playtime. When choosing the thumbnail for a post, the right wording for an article or the links being opened in different windows it really dawns on you how to use the power of the internet correctly and effectively.

BobCut Magazine; Image Courtesy of Anthony Rogers

FSD: You worked freelance around the city with different magazines, clothing brands, and modeling agencies. What was the most challenging task to work as a freelancer? What tips do you have for photographers hoping to get freelance work?

AR: The biggest difficulty on freelancing is being on the hustle constantly because if I take a break then my brand also takes a break as well and in turn I lose jobs. I have to follow up, send email blasts, research more clients and constantly test. As far as my advice for photographers, always do test shoots and keep building upon your style. Do tests for lighting, do tests for backgrounds, do tests for location, studio, product and just keep building. The right clients will definitely fall into place and from there you gain credibility.

FSD: You are interested in Asian fashion and media, and are brushing up on your Korean language proficiency to pursue your work in South Korea. What sparked your interest in Asian culture, and why do you hope to work in South Korea among other Asian countries?

AR: I got really into Asian (specifically Korean media) because of the style they exude from their pictorials, photo shoots, videos and so on. Their sense of design is something I really identify with and also the culture itself as a whole intrigues me. I believe my voice in photography really amplifies with that market so I’m currently looking into relocating over there.

FSD: What is the most memorable lesson you’ve learned during your time at Academy of Art University?

AR: The most memorable lesson …Life happens. You never know what sources and leads you can get from common interaction so when I’m out and about either at work, at a client job, out with friends or networking I put my best foot forward at all times.

Bob Cut Magazine; Image Courtesy of Anthony Rogers

FSD: Where do you find your inspiration?

AR: I find inspiration mainly from media itself. And it may not be even from the content itself, it could be something that the person is wearing or what they are doing or the atmosphere. It’s hard to answer this question because I’m constantly researching and plugging ideas so inspiration is like a second nature.

FSD: How do you want to branch off further in the photography industry?

AR: Currently I run my own online publication, Bob Cut Mag, where it’s about culture and the idea of wanting to see and do more. We write, photograph, illustrate, and design articles once a week for our readers to digest whether it be about style, art, food, places, etc. In my head, I wanted Bob Cut to be another portfolio piece for me to present at job interviews, but it’s growing legs of it’s own so I’m now creating a whole new field for myself!

FSD: What is your passion? What is your ultimate goal in your career?

AR: I have a passion for creating content. I’m a photographer, a writer, an editor, a beauty fanatic and a tech geek. I have a little bit of all aspects in me. The ultimate goal would be able to sustain both my photography business and also have my magazine take in more opportunities.

FSD: What advice would you give to students hoping to get an internship at a magazine or in fashion?

AR: Be kind. Kindness goes a lot farther than cockiness. If you’re confident in what you’re trained in and are willing to keep learning, you’ll be offered internships left and right.

Written by Yuna Choi, BFA Merchandising

Friday, September 11 at 8 p.m.

The Arc, Skylight at Moynihan Station

San Francisco, CA, Aug. 24, 2015 — The School of Fashion at Academy of Art University has chosen eight students to debut their thesis collections at New York Fashion Week. The Spring 2016 show marks the 10^th anniversary of the School of Fashion’s first showing at New York Fashion Week.

“In the decade since our first presentation at New York Fashion Week the show has gained momentum, growing in size and in the caliber of fashion professionals, designers, recruiters and media who attend,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of Academy of Art University. “We are committed to helping our students launch their careers, and we are honored to give students a platform of this magnitude to present their work as fashion industry professionals.”

The School of Fashion first presented collections at New York Fashion Week in September 2005, showing annually from 2005 to 2007. To give more students the opportunity to show their collections in New York, in 2008 the School of Fashion expanded its Fashion Week presence and began showing both Spring and Fall collections, a practice it has continued ever since.

“This season’s designers have created collections that are concentrated on minimalism, tending to the contour and structure of the garments,” said Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion.­­­“They have shifted their focus away from embellishment and on to the purity of the silhouette by the craft in which they shape and proportion the clothes. This type of constructive tailoring is an inventive way to appreciate the human figure, which elevates the nature and art of their designs.”

— Live Broadcast —

The fashion show will be streamed live at:

www.academyart.edu/fashionshow/webcast

— Social Media Channels —

Fashion School Daily: www.fashionschooldaily.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/academyofartfashion

Twitter: www.twitter.com/aaufashion

Instagram: aaufashion

#AcademyArtFashion

— Designer Portraits and Lineups —

Designer portraits and illustrated lineups are available for download at:

http://bit.ly/1E1IvXz

— Designers Presenting Collections —

For the Spring 2016 New York Fashion Week showing, eight designers will present six collections; in total, four womenswear collections and two menswear collections will be shown. 

Liz Li, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, and grew up in Shanghai, China. While in Shanghai, Li worked as a design assistant at PCCS Garment Co. Ltd, and as print designer for Zhuang Rong Qipao Co. Ltd. Li’s experience in the United States includes working as a fashion designer for San Francisco-based brand the DNA Group, as well as assisting a group of School of Fashion designers with the construction of their Spring 2015 New York Fashion Week collection. For Spring 2016, Li created a collaborative collection with M.F.A. Knitwear Designer Bom Kim. Traditional Chinese painting and the juxtaposition of abstract art and freehand brushwork inspire the collection. A color story inspired by the seasons roots the collection with a natural palette, which is set off by contrasting black details.

Bom Kim, M.F.A. Knitwear Design, was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea. For Spring 2016, Kim collaborated with M.F.A. Fashion Designer Liz Li on a collection that features 1940s-inspired A-line silhouettes. Garments are constructed from linen and transparent fabrics to give the collection a sculptural, airy quality. Their inspiration of abstract art and traditional Chinese painting can be clearly seen in the collection, which features hand painted fabrics, embroidery, and custom knitwear designed by Kim.

Illustrated lineup by Liz Li and Bom Kim

Wenhan Yuan, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Yanji Jinlin, China. After completing her B.F.A. in Fashion Design, she worked as a visual merchandising intern at Yanbian International Department Store. She also has experience working as a freelance fashion designer at creative MPK studio in Yanji, China. Yuan’s senior collection was created with a variety of materials like cotton, suit fabrics and paper textured fabrics. In her collection, Wenhan deliberately reflects a sensuous woman in men’s clothing, emphasizing fresh style, sex and emotion.

Illustrated lineup by Wenhan Yuan

Max Lu, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Taipei, Taiwan and grew up in Taipei City. After he completed his B.F.A. in Fashion Design, he worked as a freelance print pattern designer and fashion stylist assistant. In Taiwan he received an Honorable Mention Award from the Competition of Taiwan Textile Federation and won first prize at Manga Fashion Design Competition. Lu’s collection, in collaboration with Jessie Wang M.F.A. Fashion Design, aims to express ambiguous and unclear forms from a blurry dream. The collection features 1950’s classic and elegant silhouettes and new edge style. Lu and Wang focused on clear cuts and special shapes to create their designs.

Jingci Jessie Wang, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Hei Long Jiang province, China. Wang completed her B.F.A in Fashion Design in China and worked at Starview Trading Limited where she designed lingerie, underwear and sleepwear collections. She won the second prize for the Bosideng scholarship, the Okawa Textile Company Competition Finalist Award, the 3^rd Gunze Fashion Design-China T-shirt Recognition Award and the Triumph Inspiration China National Competition Finalist Award. While working toward her graduate degree, Wang worked at Dan group in San Francisco where she assisted in designing womenswear collections. Wang, in collaboration with Max Lu M.F.A. Fashion Design, uses high quality fabrics and new materials such as lame, metallic, leather, and sequins to present the collection. Wang and Lu sewed 3D samples of leather to test the weight to see if they can sew it onto lighter materials. This was to combine the hardness and softness of fabrics to bring the balance of harmony and express the vagueness and clearness of a blurry dream.

Illustrated lineup by Max Lu and Jingci Jessie Wang

Ruone Yan, B.F.A. Menswear Design, was born and raised in Chongqing, China. As an undergraduate, Yan’s work has been shown at the School of Fashion’s 2015 Graduation Fashion Show in San Francisco. Yan’s menswear collection was inspired by the Cephalotus, also known as the Venus flytrap. For Yan, the Caphalotus raised the question, “Is it better to be safe from external threats, yet be trapped with the promise of a certain, slow death, or to be free but vulnerable to unknown dangers?” Yan’s collection shows her inspiration with cocoon-like layers, fabricated from jersey, leather, and beige-toned canvas that she custom dyed with oolong tea.

Illustrated line up by Ruone Yan

Livia Bianda, B.F.A. Menswear Design, was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia. She has immersed herself in the design world, serving as the menswear intern at Alexander Wang in New York, assisting Academy of Art University seniors with their 2014 graduation collections and contributing to the design development process in styling menswear looks as a part of the design team for the Indonesia Day festival in San Francisco. In March of 2014, Bianda’s work was chosen by Academy of Art University to participate in the first round of the Joe’s Blackbook Design Competition in New York. Bianda’s lycra, mesh, pinstripe wool and pinstripe cotton graduation collection was inspired by the uniforms and exaggerated silhouettes seen on football players.

Illustrated lineup by Livia Bianda

Mehrzad Hemati, M.F.A. Fashion Design, hails from Tehran, Iran. Before coming to Academy of Art University Hemati launched her own women’s ready-to-wear label, Mezza, and while pursuing her graduate studies she has interned at Yigal Azrouël in New York. Hemati’s Spring 2016 womenswear collection blurs gender lines, incorporating menswear elements into the cotton, silk charmeuse, duchess satin and organza garments. The collection features custom closures, which are designed to look like piercings.

Illustrated lineup by Mehrzad Hemati

School of Fashion at Academy of Art University

79 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

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Academy of Art University: www.academyart.edu

School of Fashion: www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion

About Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University, the largest private university of art and design in the United States, is educating students for the art and design jobs of the 21^st century. Established in 1929, the Academy is an output-based higher education model that provides an inclusive admissions policy to all students, but imposes a rigorous curriculum that requires the students to produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates a mastery of their field in order to graduate. Students are taught by a faculty of professionals from the existing marketplace, both online and on campus in San Francisco, who provide them with an understanding of what it takes to succeed in today’s business environment. The Academy’s hands-on curriculum produces graduates who possess outstanding artistic and design skills—and equally as important, the ability to put those talents to work immediately after graduation. As a result, Academy graduates are ready to compete for and win the jobs of the 21^st century in the fields of Acting, Advertising, Animation & Visual Effects, Architecture, Art Education, Art History, Costume Design, Fashion, Fashion Journalism, Fashion Styling, Fine Art, Game Design, Game Programming, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture & Design, Jewelry & Metal Arts, Landscape Architecture, Motion Pictures & Television, Multimedia Communications, Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media, Photography, Studio Production for Advertising & Design, Visual Development, Web Design & New Media and Art Teaching Credential, and Writing for Film, Television & Digital Media. Academy of Art University is accredited by WASC, NASAD, Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) (BFA/MFA-IAD), NAAB (B-ARCH*, M-ARCH), and California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). *B-ARCH program in candidacy status.

About the School of Fashion

Approximately 2,500 fashion students study under the guidance of experienced fashion professionals in the School of Fashion, which houses the following areas of specialization: Fashion Design for Womenswear, Menswear, and Childrenswear; Technical Design; Textile Design; Knitwear Design; Accessory Design; Costume Design; Fashion Illustration; Fashion Journalism; Fashion Marketing; Fashion Styling; Fashion Merchandising; and Visual Merchandising.

The University works with international brands and recruitment agencies on internships and job placement. Graduates have gone on to such companies as Abercrombie & Fitch, Adidas, Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Banana Republic, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Blanc de Chine, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Corso Como 10, Chloë, Diane von Fürstenberg, Donna Karan, Gap, Kate Spade, Kiton, L.A.M.B., L’Ecole Lesage Paris–Atelier de Broderie, Liz Claiborne, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Martin Margiela, Martine Sitbon, Missoni, Nike, Nordstrom, The North Face, Old Navy, Oscar de la Renta, Phillip Lim, Pottery Barn, Ralph Lauren, Reebok, Roland Mouret, St. John, Threeasfour, Tocca, Viktor & Rolf, and Williams-Sonoma.

Guests to the School of Fashion include Azzedine Alaïa, Prosper and Martine Assouline, Max and Lubov Azria of BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Yigal Azrouël, Geoffrey Beene, Rose Marie Bravo, Sarah Burton, Andrew Buckler, Julie Chaiken, The Honorable Bertrand Delanoë Mayor of Paris, David Downton, Steven Cox and Daniel Silver of Duckie Brown, Patrik Ervell, Loulou de la Falaise, James Galanos, Neil Gilks of the CFDA, Joan Kaner, Humberto Leon and Carol Lim of Opening Ceremony, Antonio Lopez, Fern Mallis, Alexander McQueen, Rosita and Tai Missoni, Angela Missoni, Margherita Maccapani Missoni, Isaac Mizrahi, Josie Natori, Christina Neault of IMG Fashion, Ian Hannula and Joe Haller of N.I.C.E. Collective, Elisa Palomino, Laure du Pavillon, Zac Posen, Oscar de la Renta, Zandra Rhodes CBE, Ralph Rucci, Nathalie Rykiel, HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, Jeremy Scott, Carla Sozzani, Philip Treacy, Walter Van Beirendonck, Dirk van Saene, and Dame Vivienne Westwood DBE, as well as Christophe Girard Director of Fashion Strategy of LVMH Fashion Group, Robin Givhan, Cathy Horyn, and Suzy Menkes.

About the School of Fashion Executive Director

Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University, graduated from Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in 1992 and was awarded the prestigious M.A. Degree in Fashion with Distinction. He collaborated with Alexander McQueen on the first 10 collections shown in London and New York, and personally introduced Sarah Burton, Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, to the late designer. In 2002, he was named Creative Director of Member Holiday, a Korean-based contemporary brand, launching both men’s and women’s collections with 37 freestanding stores. His work experience spans fashion design, textile design, forecasting, brand development, and marketing for such clients as Givenchy, Paul Smith, and Versace. In addition to his duties as the Executive Director of the School of Fashion overseeing both M.F.A. and B.F.A. programs, he is the editorial director of the School of Fashion’s 180 magazine, as well as the executive producer of the annual Graduation Fashion Show and Awards Ceremony in San Francisco and the biannual fashion shows during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center in New York City. Currently, Ungless operates two artisanal design companies, When Simon Met Ralph, which focuses on apparel, and Blackened, which centers on accessories and home. Both projects are the culmination of Ungless’ inspirational development work over his career.

Celebrating the passing of ten years presenting at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), the School of Fashion has paved the way for their students—as well as other fashion schools—throughout the years. Over the last decade many talented students have been given the opportunity of a lifetime, showing their collections proudly on a global stage, which has helped them launch their post-graduation careers.

We caught up with some of the alumni who have presented their collections during NYFW, as well as the instructors who have mentored them, to learn more about the history of the School of Fashion’s involvement in NYFW and how the show helps students take the professional world by storm.

“It’s definitely a great feather in my cap to be able to say I showed a collection during NYFW,” says School of Fashion alumna Maria Korovilas. “Aside from the prestige, it was a great learning experience that has helped me immensely in the planning of subsequent runways shows and in creating a collection from concept through to completion.”

The School of Fashion joined New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in the fall of 2005, making the upcoming September 11 show the 10-year anniversary of the school’s first NYFW show. Just how did the School of Fashion become the first university to show at fashion week? A representative from 7^th on Sixth, which has since been acquired by IMG Fashion, attended the School of Fashion’s annual Graduation Fashion Show in San Francisco and was impressed by the quality of the production and talent. With the door open to participate in NYFW, School of Fashion Executive Director Simon Ungless—who produces both the SF and NY fashion shows—seized opportunity based on the benefits it would have for students.

“The School of Fashion promotes its recent graduates with a show of this magnitude to showcase the debut collections of student designers… to help secure job placement and to launch their careers,” Ungless tells us. “The industry’s reaction has been positive and supportive from day one.”

From 2005 to 2007, the School of Fashion presented student collections at NYFW every September. In 2008 the School of Fashion began showing in both September and February, which has given more students the opportunity to present at NYFW. As the years progress, each show brings in more media attention and recruiters looking for talented new designers. Each season a new crop of students is given the opportunity to showcase their creativity and the skills they have honed while studying in the School of Fashion.

Unlike commercial shows, the School of Fashion’s presentations are not intended to promote collections to be sold, but that hasn’t stopped buyers from heading backstage and wanting to buy the collections. “I remember the fashion director from a major U.S. department store coming backstage after one show wanting to buy the linen dresses from online student, Elena Akoulova,” recollected Ungless to ModeConnect.com, “That was quite a moment.”

As most of us know, in the fashion industry it is not all pizzazz and opulence. Korovilas, whose designs have been worn by celebrities from Blake Lively to Sophia Bush, notes that a year or so of hard work creating a collection comes out to just about two minutes of glory on the runway. As the average fashion show lasts just fifteen minutes, students are sharing the spotlight and splitting runway time, which is precious to their collections and careers. “The six of us who were pre-selected [to present during the Spring 2011 NYFW show] worked tirelessly day and night and at times literally slept under the cutting tables amidst rolls of fabric (actually kind of comfy!),” explains Korovilas. “That’s the short of it, the real story would require a novel. Keywords: blood, sweat, tears.”

It takes hard work to show at NYFW. The fashion shows are open to senior BFA and MFA students to showcase the best senior collections from majors including: Fashion Design (menswear, womenswear and childrenswear), Knitwear Design and Textile Design. “I am always happy to see collaborations on the runway,” says Ungless. “Very often we will put a fashion designer with a textile designer so that the textile designers fabrics and prints are produced into garments. We also create collaborations with technical, knitwear and accessory designers. We create collaborations as often as possible so that students learn to work as a team. In the industry, they will be working with a team so it is important that they learn early on how to collaborate with others.”

Students prepare for NYFW for months ahead of the show, “They spend a minimum of two semesters getting very deeply into the collection development process,” explains 3D Design Coordinator Terhi Ketola-Stutch. Alumna Camilla Olson recalls, “I worked 15-18 hours a day for about six months.” Eventually an objective committee with members from outside the University evaluates the student collections to make sure they are up to industry standards. Around six weeks prior to NYFW, students present their collections to the committee and find out if their collections will be presented in the show.

Working day and night for months on end to create a collection worthy of NYFW certainly has downsides for designers, but more prominent are the upsides. “Fashion design is not for the faint of heart or manual labor for that matter,” Korovilas explains, “But I wouldn’t trade it in for anything.” Although showing at NYFW gives students unparalleled exposure, Ketola-Stutch sees getting a thorough understanding of the collection development process as the greatest benefit to students. “They get inspired, influenced and motivated by what other collection students are doing, but they all end up having their individual journey depending on their aesthetic, material choices as well as their personalities,” says Ketola-Stutch. “This deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses will often help students find their niche and prepare them for the realities and demands of the fashion industry. And as an icing on the cake, they will get to be involved in how a professional fashion show is put together to showcase their work. That full cycle can create a powerful foundation for there future.­”

Showing at NYFW presents many opportunities to the students of the School of Fashion. Being part of a university that has helped pave the way for others is an honor. “We are a school that produces students who are creative, highly skilled and original, with an understanding and readiness for the fashion industry,” declares Gary Miller, Associate Director of Fashion Design. Celebrating a decade of School of Fashion shows at NYFW is a huge milestone for everyone involved. The School of Fashion has been given a lot of recognition for playing their part at NYFW. While this September’s show celebrates the 10^th anniversary, it also presents the Spring 2016 collections from yet another group of talented designers. We can’t wait to see what new ideas come down the runway.

Photo courtesy of Mari Tibbetts

Mari Tibbetts is a 2006 MFA Fashion Design alumna; her collection debuted in September 2006 at NYFW. She is currently working as the Director of Design at the active apparel line, Fabletics. “The collection that I showed at NYFW became the representation of who I am and always set my level high at every job I entered.”

Photo courtesy of Camila Olson

: A look from alumna Camilla Olson’s collection at the School of Fashion’s NYFW show in September 2010. Photo by Getty Photos.

Camilla Olson is a 2010 MFA Fashion Design alumna; she showed at NYFW in September 2010. She currently is working as the Creative Director of her own label, Camilla Olson LLC. “The experience taught me dedication to a concept and the value of hard work and time schedules.”

Photo courtesy of Maria Korovillas

A look from alumna Maria Korovilas’ collection at the School of Fashion’s NYFW show in September 2010. Photo by Getty Photos.

Maria Korovilas is a 2010 MFA Fashion Deign alumna. Korovilas showed her collection at NYFW in September 2010. She is now the Owner/Designer of her own label, Korovilas. “It’s definitely a great feather in my cap to be able to say I showed a collection at Lincoln Center during NYFW.”

Photo courtesy of Jamie Mihlrad

A look from alumni Jamie Mihlrad and Kia Faulkenberry Lewis’ collaborative collection at the School of Fashion’s first NYFW show in September 2005. Photo by Getty Photos

Jamie Mihlrad Banks is a 2005 MFA Fashion & Knitwear Design alumna who showed her collection at September 2005 NYFW. Banks is now the Design Director of ready-to-wear and childrenswear at Kate Spade New York. “It was quite surreal to present at New York Fashion Week before I had ever even held a job as a designer.”

Photo courtesy of Kathryn McCarron

Kathryn McCarron is a 2006 MFA Fashion & Knitwear Design alumna who showed her collection at September 2007 NYFW. McCarron is now the Owner/Designer of her own eponymous label. “I think [showing at NYFW] also made people take me more seriously and it was easier for me, personally, to get my foot into the door in the industry.”

Photo courtesy of Heather McDonald

Heather McDonald is a 2013 MFA Fashion & Knitwear alumna; she showed at February 2013 NYFW. McDonald is now Co-Owner/Designer of Harper McDonald and also a Freelance Designer at Eugenia Kim. “Designing and making my own collection has really boosted my confidence as a designer and people appreciate the experience that you get creatively and technically.”

Photo courtesy of Jie Jessie Liu

A look from alumni Jie Jessie Liu and Tanja Milutinovic’s collaborative collection at the School of Fashion’s NYFW show in September 2012. Photo by Getty Photos.

Jie Jessie Liu is a 2012 MFA Fashion Design alumna who showed at September 2012 NYFW. Liu is now Chief Designer and CEO of Simple Pair Fashion; which has helped launch Jessie Liu ™. “Having shown my collection at NYFW really helped my brand be propelled to the front of the line.”

Written by: Jenna Garlock, MFA Fashion Journalism

We are approaching that time of the year, when fashion pilgrims travel from around the states, if not the globe, to the fashion capital of United States; New York. for the bi-annual NYFW This year, attendees of NYFW will be presented with not only new trends, but also new venues. After five years of housing the event in Lincoln Center, NYFW S/S 16 will have a few new home(s); Skylight at Moynihan Station, MADE at Milk Studios and Skylight Clarkson Square. Fashion School Daily is giving you a sneak peek on several trends that will appear on the runway of NYFW S/S 16.

Photo via onthecornerstreetstyle

Androgynous Look

As people are becoming more vocal about expressing their identity and personality, gender binary clothing will no longer be relevant; the new era of genderless clothing will emerge. It’s not about women’s or men’s clothes, but it’s about expressing your identity and personality through clothes.

Photo via posugar

Urban Chic

You can now throw those pairs of jogger pants you bought from Barneys back into your closet and say goodbye to Athleisure. It’s time to bring back that black leather jacket or black blazer (or anything black you own really) to the street!

Photo via stylebistro

The New 70s

If the 60’s made its comeback in 2015, then 2016 will be the year for the 70’s. Time to visit your mother and go into her closet to look for bold, bright and patterned dresses or matching colors.

Photo via Elle

White-out Chic

Black on black outfits (or what some people refer to funeral chic) made a huge appearance this year. For 2016, let’s white those out.

Written by: Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

MBFW Fall 2015 Photo by: David Dooley

Only a few more hours until the 10^th Academy of Art University School of Fashion New York Fashion Week show starts! If you are not in New York, don’t be sad! Grab your popcorn and enjoy the show from your comfortable sofa at home via our livestream tonight. So get your computer ready and tune in at 8 PM (EST)/ 5PM (PST) to watch the fashion show live! The livestream will be available at www.academyart.edu/fashionshow/webcast

It was a sunny day in Manhattan when Academy of Art University School of Fashion students presented their collection at New York Fashion Week. It was also the school’s 10th anniversary showing in New York Fashion Week. This year, Academy of Art University presented six collections designed by eight talented students.

Photo by David Dooley

The show started off with Max Lu and Jingci Jessie Wang’s collaborative collection. Max, born in Taiwan and Jessie, born in China, are both M.F.A. fashion design students. They used high quality materials and fabrics such as lame, metallic, leather and sequins to give the collection an edgy and modern look. As an opener, Lu and Wang’s collection definitely captivated the audience in the room and took them on a trip through a dazzling dream world.

Photo by Getty Images

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Ruone Yan’s collection was right behind Max and Jessie’s. Ruone was born and raised in China and she is a M.F.A. Menswear Design student. She is no stranger to the runway as her collection was also presented in the School of Fashion’s 2015 Graduation Fashion Show in San Francisco. Her collection was inspired by the Cephalotus, also known as the Venus Flytrap. She custom dyed all her fabrics with oolong tea created an off white color throughout the collection. The boxy shape of Yan’s collection reminds me of the flytrap itself, entrapping the models in her designs.

Photo by Getty Images

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Liz Li and Bom Kim collaborative collection was up next. Liz Li, from China, and Bom Kim, from Korea, are both M.F.A. Students. Liz Li is a Fashion Design major and Bom Kim is a Knitwear Design major. Together they collaborated and created collection that took us through the different seasons expressed in oriental inspired print.

Photo by Getty Images

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Mehrzad Hemati, an Iranian born M.F.A. Fashion Design student was the fourth designer to present. Her all-white collection blurs gender lines, incorporating menswear design elements into her womenswear collection. She used fabrics such as cotton, silk charmeuse, duchess satin and organza to create cleanliness on her collection. Custom closures are also featured in her collection, which are designed to imitate piercings.

Photo by Getty Images

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If you want to look sporty yet edgy then Livia Bianda’s collection would be a perfect fit for you. Livia, an Indonesia-born B.F.A. student used fabrics such as lycra, mesh, pinstripe cotton and wool to create modern boxy silhouette, inspired by football player’s uniform. The green color of Bianda’s collection reminds me of football field for her models to march on. What is interesting about her collection was the built-in backpacks and fanny packs sewn onto the garments. The collection not only exceeded aesthetic, but also function.

Photo by Getty Images

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Last, but not least, Wenhan Yuan presented her collection. Wenhan was born in Yanjin Jinlin, China and she is a M.F.A student. Her collection reflects sensuous women in men’s clothing, emphasizing fresh style, sex and emotion. She uses various materials for the collection such as cotton, suit fabrics and paper-textured fabric. The black and white collection reminds me of a famous Chinese philosophy, Yin & Yang, which can be understood as female and male. This furthers Wenhan’s interpretation of mixing womenswear and menswear in her collection.

Photo by Getty Images

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Photo by Getty Images

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

After last year’s stunning presentation by Jenny Hoang, Academy of Art University was chosen again by the non-profit organization, Supima, for the annual Supima Design Competition. The competition is intended to give exposure to new emerging talents in the fashion industry and the winner of the competition receives a $10,000 cash reward.

This year Miss Universe 2012, Olivia Culpo, hosted the competition. Her knowledge and involvement in fashion and entertainment industry made her a perfect choice as the host. Amongst the judges were designer/ stylist, Catherine Baba; Italian trendsetter, Ildo Damiano; Co-founder and former CEO of Moda Operandi and Tinker Tailor, Aslaug Magnusdottir; wardrobe stylist and New York based personal shopping consultant, Carmen Lilly; President of an international fashion and design consultancy Fern Mallis LLC, Fern Mallis; Editor-in-Chief of NowFashion, Jessica Michault; Digital, Editorial and Social Media strategist, Naomi Nevitt; Paris’s most sought after calligrapher, Nicolas Ouchenir; celebrity stylist, Sam Spector; beauty expert and founder of GLAM4GOOD, Mary Alice Stephenson and Mashable fashion reporter, David Yi.

Participants were selected from seven of America’s top design schools, including Academy of Art University. Each school selected one student to participate in the competition and they had to show five eveningwear looks. From Academy of Art University, B.F.A. Womenswear student, Karen Dang, was chosen to participate in this prestigious competition. Dang, who is from Saint Louis Missouri, was chosen after she handed in her Supima competition pre-collection for critique.

Academy of Art University B.F.A. womenswear student, Karen Dang

The show was held in The Gallery at Skylight Clarkson Square at noon. All of the guests were presented with beautiful dresses inspired by flowers and poetry designed by all of the talented participants. Dang’s inspiration came from a series of flower explosions photographed by Martin Klimas and Ori Gersht’s On Reflection photo series. She first used Photoshop to render the design, then she proceeded to use ice dying technique to create the colors she wanted for her collection.

Photo by Martin Klimas

Dang’s collection was absolutely beautiful. The dresses were fun, vibrant, feminine yet edgy. The models looked like as if they were fairies emerging from the bursting flowers. She purposely created each dress in a different color to show the different stages of the colorful explosion. Here are the five dresses from Dang’s collection:

Corduroy knee length dress, ice dyed in light blues with front flap, Courtesy of Supima

Twill floor length, tent shaped dress, ice dyed in hues of blue with single shoulder strap, Courtesy of Supima

Denim A-line dress splashed in orchid with exaggerated trumpet hem, Courtesy of Supima

Knit one shoulder dress in hot pink with front slit, Courtesy of Supima

Shirting dress, ice dyed in fiery oranges and yellow with asymmetrical hemline, Courtesy of Supima

Although Dang didn’t win the competition, she was incredibly happy because this competition provides a great launching pad for her career. Additionally, Dang who dreams of becoming a creative director for one of her favorite brands (Dion Lee, Christopher Kane, DKNY, Vera Wang) or for her own line, says she was ecstatic to just be chosen for the competition.

Congratulations to you, Karen Dang! You managed to create stunning collection and make us proud.

Karen Dang’s illustrative lineup for the Supima Competition

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

New York, NY, Sept. 12, 2015 — On Friday, September 11^th, eight designers from the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University presented their thesis collections at New York Fashion Week. The Spring 2016 show marked the 10^th anniversary of the School of Fashion’s first showing at New York Fashion Week. For the Spring 2016 season, eight designers presented six collections in a show held at The Arc, Skylight at Moynihan Station; in total, four womenswear collections and two menswear collections were shown.

“In the decade since our first presentation at New York Fashion Week the show has gained momentum, growing in size and in the caliber of fashion professionals, designers, recruiters and media who attend,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of Academy of Art University. “We are committed to helping our students launch their careers, and we are honored to give students a platform of this magnitude to present their work as fashion industry professionals.”

The School of Fashion first presented collections at New York Fashion Week in September 2005, showing annually from 2005 to 2007. To give more students the opportunity to show their collections in New York, in 2008 the School of Fashion expanded its Fashion Week presence and began showing both Spring and Fall collections, a practice it has continued ever since.

“This season’s designers have created collections that are concentrated on minimalism, tending to the contour and structure of the garments,” said Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion. “They have shifted their focus away from embellishment and on to the purity of the silhouette by the craft in which they shape and proportion the clothes. This type of constructive tailoring is an inventive way to appreciate the human figure, which elevates the nature and art of their designs.”

From left to right: Jingci Jessie Wang, Max Lu, Mehrzad Hemati, Bom Kim, Liz Li, Livia Bianda, Wenhan Yuan, and Ruone Yan. Photo by David Dooley.

Max Lu and Jingci Jessie Wang – Max Lu, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Taipei, Taiwan and grew up in Taipei City. After he completed his B.F.A. in Fashion Design, he worked as a freelance print pattern designer and fashion stylist assistant. In Taiwan he received an Honorable Mention Award from the Competition of Taiwan Textile Federation and won first prize at Manga Fashion Design Competition. For Spring 2016 Lu created a collaborative collection with Jingci Jessie Wang, M.F.A. Fashion Design, who hails from Hei Long Jiang province, China. Wang completed her B.F.A in Fashion Design in China and worked at Starview Trading Limited where she designed lingerie, underwear and sleepwear collections. She won the second prize for the Bosideng scholarship, the Okawa Textile Company Competition Finalist Award, the 3^rd Gunze Fashion Design-China T-shirt Recognition Award and the Triumph Inspiration China National Competition Finalist Award. While working toward her graduate degree, Wang worked at Dan group in San Francisco where she assisted in designing womenswear collections. Lu and Wang previously worked together as a part of a seven designer group that presented their collaborative menswear collection at Spring 2015 New York Fashion Week. For their Spring 2016 collection, Lu and Wang aimed to express ambiguous and unclear forms from a blurry dream. The collection features 1950’s classic and elegant silhouettes, executed in modern materials including lame, metallic leather and sequins.

Spring 2016 collection by Max Lu, M.F.A. Fashion Design, and Jingci Jessie Wang, M.F.A. Fashion Design

Ruone Yan, B.F.A. Menswear Design, was born and raised in Chongqing, China. As an undergraduate, Yan’s work has been shown at the Academy of Art University 2015 Graduation Fashion Show in San Francisco. Yan’s menswear collection was inspired by the Cephalotus, also known as the Venus flytrap. For Yan, the Caphalotus raised the question, “Is it better to be safe from external threats, yet be trapped with the promise of a certain, slow death, or to be free but vulnerable to unknown dangers?” Yan’s collection shows her inspiration with cocoon-like layers, fabricated from jersey, leather, and beige-toned canvas that she custom dyed with oolong tea.

Spring 2016 collection by Ruone Yan, B.F.A. Menswear Design

Liz Li and Bom Kim – Liz Li, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, and grew up in Shanghai, China. While in Shanghai, Li worked as a design assistant at PCCS Garment Co. Ltd, and as print designer for Zhuang Rong Qipao Co. Ltd. Li’s experience in the United States includes working as a fashion designer for San Francisco-based brand the DNA Group, as well as assisting a group of School of Fashion designers with the construction of their Spring 2015 New York Fashion Week collection. For Spring 2016, Li created a collaborative collection with M.F.A. Knitwear Designer Bom Kim, who was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea. Traditional Chinese painting and the juxtaposition of abstract art and freehand brushwork inspired the collection; their inspiration can be clearly seen in the hand painted fabrics and embroidery used throughout the collection. A color story inspired by the seasons roots the collection with a natural palette, which is set off by contrasting black details. Garments are constructed from linen and transparent fabrics to give the collection a sculptural, airy quality and are juxtaposed with sturdy custom designed knitwear by Kim.

Spring 2016 collection by Liz Li, M.F.A. Fashion Design, and Bom Kim, M.F.A. Knitwear Design

Mehrzad Hemati, M.F.A. Fashion Design, hails from Tehran, Iran. Before coming to Academy of Art University, Hemati launched her own women’s ready-to-wear label, Mezza, and while pursuing her graduate studies she has interned at Yigal Azrouël in New York. Hemati’s Spring 2016 womenswear collection blurs gender lines, incorporating menswear elements into the cotton, silk charmeuse, duchess satin and organza garments. The collection features custom closures, which are designed to look like piercings.

Spring 2016 collection by Mehrzad Hemati, M.F.A. Fashion Design

Livia Bianda, B.F.A. Menswear Design, was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia. She has immersed herself in the design world, serving as the menswear intern at Alexander Wang in New York, assisting her classmates with their 2014 graduation collections and contributing to the design development process in styling menswear looks as a part of the design team for the Indonesia Day festival in San Francisco. In March of 2014, her work was chosen by Academy of Art University to participate in the first round of the Joe’s Blackbook Design Competition in New York. Bianda’s lycra, mesh, pinstripe wool and pinstripe cotton graduation collection was inspired by the uniforms and exaggerated silhouettes seen on football players.

Spring 2016 collection by Livia Bianda, B.F.A. Menswear Design

Wenhan Yuan, M.F.A. Fashion Design, was born in Yanji Jinlin, China. After completing her B.F.A. in Fashion Design, she worked as a visual merchandising intern at Yanbian International Department Store. She also has experience working as a freelance fashion designer at creative MPK studio in Yanji, China. Yuan’s senior collection was created with a variety of materials like cotton, suit fabrics and paper textured fabrics. In her collection, Wenhan deliberately reflected a sensuous woman in men’s clothing, emphasizing fresh style, sex and emotion.

Spring 2016 collection by Wenhan Yuan, M.F.A. Fashion Design

The traditional British Burberry girl has diverged from her preen feminine perfection, by exposing her daring and slightly disheveled London-cool for Christopher Bailey’s latest Spring Summer ‘16 collection.

The looks break boundaries, featuring dark silks, metals, lace and leather, which almost don’t make sense for the season. They are purposely “a mashup of things I really love”, and people no longer care in a world that is hot and cold all year-round, says Bailey.

He chose a tent in Hyde Park, London, decked out with Burberry’s signature marble flooring, and a runway that circled around a full 32-piece orchestra for the show space. It was prominent all over the Snapchat feed yesterday, with unique geofilters of ‘The Burberry Show’ alongside videos of models Cara Delevigne, Jourdan Dunn, and Suki Waterhouse, who are all avid social media users. Burberry proves their fashion and tech-forward mindset by partnering up with the social media site for the first time to give everyone “an instant global view,” says Bailey. As well as streaming the show live, the feed revealed behind the scenes snippets of rehearsals, backstage fittings, and the after-show.

Photo: WWD

A sheer oxblood polka-dot dress floats down the runway over a high-wasted black short, nipped in at the waist with a thick silk band. Wedged black sandals embellished with a thick gold chain, contrast against the dainty handle of the neutral-toned bag. The lip shade ‘Black Rose’ is dominant.

Photo: WWD

A lingerie dress in black silk and lace, worn with a hooded jersey coat is the antithesis to summer daywear.  The heavy metal accessories and bed-head hair add an edgy disorder to the feminine English rose.

Photo: WWD

A dark spin on the classic Burberry trench coat, worn casually over a sculpted sheer dress of black lace is the edgier ‘underwear as outerwear’ look. Personalized nylon backpacks characterized with models initials, give the overall look it’s nineties laid-back grunge.

Written by, Faye Harris, MFA Fashion Journalism

To read more of Faye Harris’ work, visit her Tumblr page here.

Dale Dombrowski is not a stranger to the fashion world. Dale, who has over twenty years of career experience in visual merchandising display from Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware, is now an instructor at the Academy of Art University School of Fashion. He is teaching fashion drawing, fashion design and visual merchandising display and he had an exhibition this past May in Alameda, CA. After not exhibiting his art for some time, Dale was excited to finally put himself back out there and showcase his new work at his exhibit, ‘Drawing You In’. Dale’s alluring hand-drawn art mixed with watercolor was seen vividly decorated on the wall of Julie’s Coffee and Tea Garden. The drawings were dynamic as if they were moving and the use of color was very eye-catching and vibrant. If you missed his show, watch the video below of Dale Dombrowski’s Drawing You In exhibit.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

Fall semester is here (although the weather is not), so it’s time to revamp your wardrobe. Whether you’re in fashion design, journalism, styling, merchandising, knitwear, textile or visual merchandising you need to dress appropriately for your major.

Fashion Design

If you’re a designer, you are probably going to be working with scissors, sewing machines and many more tools that could damage your clothes. As a designer, you’ll want something comfortable for the long hours and something sturdy for those dangerous tools you will be using. So I suggest something along these lines: a comfortable straight-line skirt (so it doesn’t get caught on anything), flat shoes (for the sewing machine) and short sleeves or tighter cuffs around the wrist.

Photo source: Pinterest

Fashion Journalism

A fashion journalist might need to look presentable from 9 a.m-8 p.m, as they have to meet people or gather research. Heels with a colorful and trendy skirt will definitely elevate the look.

Photo source: Pinterest

Fashion Stylist

Stylists need to be as comfortable as possible, because in this job, they are running around all day. A backpack and comfortable shoes (not necessarily tennis shoes) are a must.

Photo source: Pinterest

Fashion Merchandising

You should be most dressed for business compared to other majors, so you have to look like you know what you are talking about. Smart trousers and a blazer usually do the trick.

Photo source: Pinterest

Fashion Knitwear Design

If you are in knitwear (lucky!) you can wear pretty much whatever you want. Comfortable basics will be your best friend, like a blouse and colorful flats

Photo source: Pinterest

Fashion Textile Design

Textile designers are going to work with a lot of different media. So why not look like you do? If you wear colorful clothes, the paint splatters won’t show up and just might inspire you.

Photo source: Pinterest

Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandisers are all about athletics of fashion. Be your own business card and throw on some heels and a vibrant dress.

Photo source: Pinterest

Written by, Isabelle Eder, BFA Styling

Last month a group of Academy of Art University costume majors and recent graduates met with David Zinn, a three time Tony nominee for Costume Design. This is the second time that Zinn has met with the costume design students of Academy of Art University.

Previously, when the program was designing and producing a seminar, he conducted an interview with the class via Skype. Since then he has designed a Broadway production with Alan Rickman. The class reported that he was incredibly gracious, answering questions about how he approached the show as well as giving career advice. When Margaret Whitaker, Costume Design Coordinator, knew he was going to be back in town she approached him about coming in person.

Promotional Photo for Amelie at Berkeley Repertory Theatre.

He was in San Francisco designing sets and costumes for Amelie, the new musical version of the film at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Zinn gave the costume design students a detailed backstage tour of his sets and costume designs and then told the students a little bit about his career and design process. Over the course of 90 minutes, the group talked about the role of education in preparing students for a career in theatre, what the important relationships are for costume designers to foster a show, and how to build trust between yourself and actors.

This is a rack from the women’s dressing room where you can see some of the bold patterns on the coats.

While Amelie is contemporary, due to the specificity of color and pattern needs, the costume shop at Berkeley Repertory Theatre built nearly everything for the production and commissioned knitters to do some of the sweaters seen in the show.

The slightly less glamorous wig rack complete with lizard head.

Back stage in the green room at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. From left to right: Yi Li, Victoria Comer Mortimer, Nikki Anderson Joy, Summer Hall (kneeling), David Zinn, Clarkie Kabler, Julian Gutierrez, Bree Dills, and Monica Aranda.

Written By: Margaret Whitaker, Academy of Art University Costume Design Coordinator

Located in one of San Francisco’s busiest neighborhoods, Fisherman’s Wharf, Hotel Zephyr – with chic, retro and nautical ambiance – is the closest hotel to the famous Pier 39. The hotel’s DNA is linked with its staff sharing their adventurous philosophy, therefore when it comes to dressing their staff the hotel management decided to tap Academy of Art University 2010 MFA Fashion Design alumna and Project Runway Season 10 participant Melissa Fleis. Fleis, who is also the creative force behind her eponymous label, was asked to design the hotel uniform after Carmen Cruz, General Manager of Hotel Zephyr, saw and fell in love with Melissa’s uniform design for SF’s Dirty Habit restaurant.

Melissa’s designs for Hotel Zephyr staff. Photo courtesy: Melissa Fleis

“Located near Fisherman’s Wharf, Zephyr naturally has a very nautical feel to it. I wanted to combine this, and elements of California luxe to create a very different, and very unconventional hotel experience,” said Fleis. “My creative process began with looking back at early 20th Century sailors, women factory workers in WWII, and also looking forward to modern technical silhouettes.” She felt that “it’s important to me that they all feel like they’re part of the same team.” To make sure garments were custom tailored and fit immaculately, Fleis did at least 2-3 fitting for each staff member. In addition, she also created a custom logo and patches on the t-shirts as part of the collection.

Custom logo and patch for Hotel Zephyr, part of Fleis’ collection. Photo courtesy: Melissa Fleis

Fleis relied on local, California-based businesses to bring her collection to life. According to her, she sourced her cotton blends, French terry, denim and fleece yoga fabrics both in Los Angeles and San Francisco. When it came to production, she didn’t go far, rather she chose to work with local independent brands and factories. By working locally, Fleis infused the collection with a California vibe and did her part to support local businesses that are struggling to fight outsourcing, which is gaining a foothold due to the cheaper production costs it offers.

Hotel Zephyr staffs in Fleis’ collection. Photo courtesy: Melissa Fleis

Fleis says that she is open to working with other companies to create custom uniforms for them. To her, the challenging process allows her to “translate my design aesthetic to a much broader scale, while also incorporating varying degrees of design concepts, and ideas.”

For more information about Melissa Fleis and her work, visit her website here.

Written by Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

San Francisco, CA, Oct. 19, 2015 – The School of Fashion at Academy of Art University is pleased to announce a partnership with Weebly and Flipboard, two firms at the center of creativity and technology. Weebly will offer Fashion Journalism students the opportunity to receive a $10,000 scholarship and Flipboard will be donating several iPads to further student’s journalism studies.

“As the only designated and accredited B.A. and M.A. Fashion Journalism programs in the United States, we are committed to spearheading innovation during one of the most exciting times of change within the fashion industry,” said Simon Ungless, Executive Director, School of Fashion at Academy of Art University.

“Our increasingly image-driven culture points to the need to refresh the fashion journalist’s toolbox with cutting-edge digital and social media skills,” said Stephan Rabimov, Director of Social Media and Fashion Journalism at Academy of Art University. “We are thrilled that Weebly and Flipboard will directly connect our students with some of the most widely used services and platforms and provide the opportunity for students to experience innovative technology.”

Weebly, a San Francisco-based global platform that allows anyone to easily create a unique website, blog or online store, has founded a $10,000 Weebly Scholarship for Academy of Art University Fashion Journalism students. The scholarship is open to students who build their own digital magazine on Weebly’s award-winning platform in two specific courses – FSH 488: Magazine Publishing Workshop for undergraduate students and FSH 626 MS: Digital & Print Magazine Publishing for graduate students. The scholarship will be awarded to the student with the best-designed digital magazine at the annual Academy of Art University Graduation Fashion Show in May 2016.

“We’re proud to see the future of fashion journalism and design take off on stunning, customized Weebly sites created by Academy of Art University Fashion Journalism students and alumni like Katarzyna Tarabula, Namrata Loka, and Justice McNeil,” said Vitaly Odemchuk, Creative Director, Weebly.

To showcase published stories produced by Academy of Art University Fashion Journalism students, Flipboard has established a dedicated channel on their platform on the subject of fashion journalism. The channel acts as a single place to keep up on the topics, news and events that students are covering as part of their undergraduate and graduate studies. At the annual Academy of Art University Graduation Fashion Show in May 2016, The School of Fashion at Academy of Art University will award three Fashion Journalism students with the most followed and engaged Flipboard magazines with the latest iPads to help the students on their path toward digital journalism education. These awards are made possible through a generous donation by Flipboard.

About Weebly

Founded in 2007, Weebly is a San Francisco-based, global platform that lets people easily create a unique website, blog or online store. Millions around the world use Weebly to start their own business, sell online, showcase their achievements and communicate with visitors in a thoughtful and meaningful way. Designed with the first-time business owner in mind, Weebly gives everyone the freedom to build a high-quality site that works brilliantly across any device. Weebly offers a range of pricing options, including free and premium consumer plans, as well as enterprise offerings and is consistently the highest-rated website building mobile app in the App Store and Google Play. Weebly’s investors include Sequoia Capital, Tencent Holdings, Baseline Ventures, Ron Conway and is a Y Combinator backed company.

About Flipboard

Flipboard gives people a single place to keep up on the topics, news, and events they care about. People using Flipboard can follow their favorite sources from around the world and then collect stories, images, and videos into their own Flipboard magazines—sharing items that reflect their interests, express their perspectives, or are simply things they want to read later. Flipboard is available in any app store and by visiting flipboard.com.

About Academy of Art University’s Fashion Journalism Program

Academy of Art University has long been the only U.S. school to offer a Fashion Journalism Program, and in June 2013 received accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission for the B.A. and M.A. Fashion Journalism degrees. The program is led by Stephan Rabimov, Director of Social Media & Fashion Journalism. Rabimov is also the Editor-in-Chief of Depesha Magazine, and contributor to The Huffington Post, and Forbes International.

Faculty include Emily Holt, contributing writer to Vogue.com; Diane Dorrans Saeks, San Francisco correspondent for W Magazine and Women’s Wear Daily, and the author of numerous books on interior design, architecture, style, gardens and travel; Paul Wilner, former editor of the San Francisco Chronicle Style section and the San Francisco Examiner Magazine, and former contributor to The New York Times Arts & Leisure section, and Los Angeles Times; and Cynthia Durcanin, a founding editor of Elle.com whose work has appeared in Elle magazine, Esquire, eLuxury.com, The Wall Street Journal, and Travel & Leisure.

Fashion Journalism Guests and Academy honorees include Robin Givhan, the only fashion writer to be the recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, journalism’s highest honor, for fashion criticism, Cathy Horyn, former fashion critic for The New York Times and current critic for New York Magazine’s fashion blog, The Cut, and Suzy Menkes, the long-time fashion reporter for The New York Herald Tribune and International Edition of The New York Times, who currently serves as International Fashion Editor for 19 international editions of Vogue online.

Other notable guest speakers include Simona Melegari of Rolling Stone Magazine Italy, Gene Krell of Condé Nast Japan, 
Rosalie Huang of Condé Nast Taiwan, Martine and Prosper Assouline of Assouline Publishing, Matt Tyrnauer of Vanity Fair, Patrick Cabasset of L’Officiel Paris, Richard Klein founder of Surface and publisher of FourTwoNine, Lorraine Sanders of San Francisco Chronicle Style Bytes column and founder of Digital Style Digest, and Eugenia Chen formerly of Polyvore.

Students have gone on to work for Allure, Deux Hommes, FourTwoNine, Gilt Groupe, GenArt, Fashion Times, Jed Root, Nylon, Nylon Japan, POPSUGAR, Refinery29, Stylesight, SOMA, Teen Vogue, Vogue Japan, Women’s Wear Daily, WWD Men’s, Worth Global Style Network, and Yelp, among others.

Other areas of study in the School of Fashion include Fashion Design for Womenswear, Menswear, and Childrenswear; Technical Design; Textile Design; Knitwear Design; Accessory Design; Costume Design; Fashion Illustration; Fashion Marketing; Fashion Styling; Fashion Merchandising; and Visual Merchandising.

About Academy of Art University, San Francisco

Academy of Art University is the largest accredited private art and design university in the nation. Founded in 1929, the school offers accredited AA, BA, BFA, BS, B.Arch*, MA, MFA, and M.Arch degree programs in 29 areas of study, as well as continuing art education, pre-college art experience programs, and teacher grants. Classes are available in Acting, Advertising, Animation & Visual Effects, Architecture, Art Education, Art History, Art Teaching Credential, Automotive Restoration, Costume Design, Fashion, Fashion Journalism, Fashion Styling, Fine Art, Game Development, Game Programming, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design (Transportation & Product Design), Interior Architecture & Design, Jewelry & Metal Arts, Landscape Architecture, Motion Pictures & Television, Multimedia Communications, Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media, Photography, Studio Production for Advertising & Design, Visual Development, Web Design & New Media, and Writing for Film, Television & Digital Media. Students can also enroll in flexible online degree programs in most areas of study. Academy of Art University is an accredited member of WSCUC, NASAD, CIDA (BFA-IAD, MFA-IAD), NAAB (B.Arch*, M.Arch), and CTC (California Teacher Credential). For more information, visit academyart.edu or call 800.544.2787 (U.S. only) or 415.274.2200. *B.Arch is currently in candidacy status.

School of Fashion at Academy of Art University

79 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

Call 800.544.2787 (U.S. only) or 415.274.2200

Academy of Art University: www.academyart.edu/

School of Fashion: www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion

Press Contact: Ian MacKintosh / imackintosh@academyart.edu

Bhagvati Khalsa. Photo courtesy of Bhagvati Khalsa

Bhagvati Khalsa, who was born in Colorado and grew up in a Sikh boarding school in Northern India, has been exposed to two completely different worlds that made her who she is today.

“It is hard to gauge the impact my upbringing has had on my life, but having to straddling duel cultures has given me the ability adapt and improvise easily with the tools and project at hand,” Khalsa told Fashion School Daily.

The 2000 alumna of Academy of Art University BFA Fashion and Knitwear Design with emphasis on Illustration, has accumulated over a decade of industry experience ranging from Banana Republic up to Patagonia. Recently, Fashion School Daily had the opportunity to interview this nature lover who also loves drawing, ceramics, climbing and surfing.

“Nomadic Safari” one of Bhagvati Khalsa’s work. Photo courtesy of Bhagvati Khalsa

Fashion School Daily: What sparked your interest to study Fashion and Knitwear Design at Academy of Art University?

Bhagvati Khalsa: I have loved drawing and making things since I was a kid, but the major turning point that pushed me towards fashion was studying with a master tailor just out of high school. She really instilled in me the love of the process. I had very little knowledge about the Fashion industry, but thought that if I loved to draw and sew it was a natural choice.

FSD: During your study in Academy of Art University you received full scholarship for international exchange and went to study French in Chambre Syndicate De La Couture Parisienne, how did you get the scholarship? And why French?

BK: I got the scholarship based on my portfolio, and jumped at the chance because who wouldn’t? France was not my first choice but my history and knowledge in tailoring ended up being very beneficial in helping me understand what was going on since my teachers didn’t speak English. I ended up studying French in the evenings and still feel so lucky to have had that opportunity.

FSD: Any fond memory you still remember from your school days? If so what is it? 

BK: I remember when I learned how to find inspiration and utilize it; the world opened up and felt limitless.

FSD:  After you graduated, what was the first thing you did afterward?

BK: I taught Visual research, fashion life drawing and senior portfolio at a university in Ohio. Although I was quite young it felt relevant because the Academy of Art University fashion program gave me a much more European take on design. The students in Ohio had more emphasis on the commercial side of fashion and I could expose them to another way of seeing it.

FSD:  You have accumulated so many experiences in fashion industry; what’s your most memorable one?

BK: To be honest there is not one that is most memorable. It is much more about process and looking forward to new experiences that align my personal ethos with my work world.

Poster by Bhagvati Khalsa. Photo courtesy of Bhagvati Khalsa

FSD: You have worked for a big company like Banana Republic and you have also worked for small companies. What’s the biggest difference you have noticed? And which one do you prefer? 

BK: The Bigger companies tend to have more bureaucracy with systems that track quality and consistency which is great, but also makes for a lot of data entry. The size is usually reflected in the budget so the bigger companies can offer broader access to a variety of opportunities such as travel for research and development (R&D). As for and smaller companies it varies greatly, there are many small companies that exist solely to make private label knock offs which can be quite depressing, but If that is not their intention, smaller companies are willing to take more stylistic risk. This can be very rewarding, because it can give the person opportunities to wear multiple hats and feel like you are making a bigger contribution to the overall product. I do not have a preference, as I have had good and not so good experiences with both, in the end when I feel like I am able to make a good contribution is when I feel the most rewarded.

FSD: When you were still at Academy of Art University, what was your dream job? And are you still working towards it?

BK: My Dream has never revolved around a job, but around the desire to continue to grow, be creative and make things. So my hope is that it is a life long journey and it is never a place that I will reach, but always be working towards.

Photo courtesy of Patagonia

FSD: You are currently working for Patagonia, how did it all start? What was the hiring process like? 

BK: I got an interview because I have a friend and Patagonia employee who recommended me for the position. Patagonia is a family owned company and they like to create a family atmosphere so it is encouraged to bring people in the mix that fit culturally with relevant skill sets. I had multiple interviews and after being hired, I moved very quickly from Colorado to Ventura CA.

FSD: What’s an average day like for you in Patagonia?

BK: The Great thing about working at Patagonia is there is not really an average day. There are a lot of interpersonal interactions and telephones are rarely used. People work hard and play hard and if the work gets done there usually is not a problem.

“What time is it going to rain” mural by Bhagvati Khalsa. Photo by Bhagvati Khalsa

FSD: Looking at your website, you have an array of beautiful works, which one is your favorite? What can you tell me about it 

BK: My favorite projects have been some of the bigger scale projects that I have worked on.  I have assisted some large-scale installation artist and built sculptures that people could physical experience, moving through them.  Of my favorite personal projects was a mural I made on my house in Brooklyn NY called “what time is it going to rain?”  It measured 13’x26’ and the scale and having to interaction with the public made for a very spontaneous and satisfying process.

FSD: During your study at the Academy of Art University, you had an emphasis on illustration. Can you tell me more about your illustration style?

BK: I did a lot of figure drawing at the Academy of Art University and that has continued to be something I use to evolve my style. I really like to draw with pen, I like that it forces you to look harder before committing your line to the page.

FSD: What inspires you?

BK: Nature, people and being alive!

FSD: What’s next for you?

BK: Currently I am exploring the world of ceramics and am interested to see where it takes me.

FSD: We all know the real world is hard and fashion industry is not an easy industry to work in, what advice can you give to graduating fashion students? 

BK: There is not one path, look for yours and be true to your self.

For more information about Bhagvati Khalsa and her work, visit her website here

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising