Photo courtesy of WHICHKIM

BFA Menswear alumna Dahae Kim’s edgy menswear line WHICHKIM is a San Francisco staple, and thank to two upcoming events you’ve got the chance to browse the San Francisco Fashion Award and CFDA scholarship winner’s contemporary line.

Today and next Thursday WHICHKIM will be hosting a pop-up store in two different locations where customers can come and shop exclusive WHICHKIM merchandise and enjoy refreshing beverages. Details on the events are below, be sure to check them out!

Photo courtesy of WHICHKIM

EAST BAY POP-UP SHOP

Date: Saturday, October 24^th

Time: 12 – 7 P.M

Location: L’Occitane en Provence (Bay Street Shopping center – Emeryville, CA)

SAN FRANCISCO POP-UP SHOP

Date: Thursday, October 29^th

Time: 6 – 9 P.M

Location: The Infinity Towers Club Lounge (301 Main St. San Francisco, CA 94105)

For more information, visit WHICHKIM website.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

After being abruptly late, fall is finally here in San Francisco and that means fall fashion is finally swarming the city’s streets. With fashion trend changes along with the season, make up trends also change and if you are looking for some new beauty products for fall, then Beauty.com is the right place to look.

Photo Courtesy of Beauty.com

Beauty.com is an online destination for beauty products. This popular web store offers over 350 brands ranging from widely known brand up to niche and hard-to-find products. To welcome fall, Beuaty.com teams up with Academy of Art University School of Fashion alumna and CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund (CVFF) runner-up, Ryan Roche. For the collaboration, Roche designs Nudie Beauty Bag as complimentary gift for customers who spend more than $125 at Beauty.com.

“The bag is a pared back simple half circle shape in my favorite shade of nude pink with a cool fringe zip tassel. It reminds me of a makeup bag my mom had when I was a child that I always loved. I am so often inspired by the colors found in make up so this was a super fun project to work on, it came very naturally for me!” says the former knitwear design major and Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, Ryan Roche. The exclusive bag has simplicity design yet edgy that definitely one of Ryan Roche’s design esthetics. Aside from being a useful make up bag, it can also be a perfect accessory to your daily outfit.

Photo courtesy of Beauty.com

Accompanying the bag is $152 worth of beauty merchandise. Samples included in the bag are: L’Occitane Divine Cream, Caudalie Hand & Nail Cream, CLEAN Fragrance White Woods VOCs, BareMinerals 5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow, Macadamia Nourishing Moisture Oil Treatment, Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster, ClariSEA Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant, Cane & Austin Miracle Pad 20% Glycolic, Jurlique PAD Firming Face Oil OR PAD Firming & Tightening, Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream, Londontown Nail File, Nuxe Minis Crème Fraiche Normal Skin Moisturizer, De-luxe Shea Butter 100% Pure, Jack Black Supreme Cream Shave Lather and Beauty.com offer card.

Photo courtesy of Beauty.com

So what are you waiting for?! Click here to start shopping and claim your free exclusive Ryan Roche Nude Beauty Bag with $152 worth of beauty samples!

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

Halloween is just right around the corner. If you still don’t have a costume, Fashion School Daily will gladly become your Fairy Godmother and give you some fashionable costume ideas

Anna Wintour

Wig from Pricefalls, Sunglasses from Gucci, Necklace from BaubleBar, Black Top from H&M, Floral Skirt from H&M and Heels from Ivanka Trump

Who doesn’t know the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue US, Anna Wintour? Her iconic style is just as widely known as her job title: short bob hair, black sunglasses (always!), simple top paired with A-line full skirt and heels. Some of these items are easy to find, you might actually have them sitting in your closet.

Carrie Bradshaw

Wig from Aliexpress, Blazer from H&M, T-shirt from H&M, Skirt from Topshop and Heels from Delpozo

Perhaps one of the most iconic female lead characters in any TV show in history, Carrie Bradshaw has indulged us with her fun and daring sartorial choice, be it in the Sexy and The City TV show or in the movies. One of her notable styles is elevating casual look with touch of glamor to it. Her curly long hair always perfectly frames her face and most importantly, one can’t be Carrie Bradshaw without beautiful statement heels. As we all know, she loves shoes more than anything!

Karl Lagerfeld

Wig from Aliexpress, Sunglasses from Topshop, White Blouse, Blazer & Pants from H&M, Gloves and Boots from Zara

Definitely one of the most famous and talented designers of our time, Karl Lagerfeld is the creative force behind three big fashion brands: Chanel, Fendi and his own eponymous brand, Karl Lagerfeld. It doesn’t matter if he is walking at the end of a Chanel or Fendi show, he is always seen wearing his iconic monochromatic look: White shirt, sometimes with black bow or tie, black suit, black boots and you can’t forget the black sunglasses along with black leather gloves.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

Photo courtesy of Janey Cao

Fashion School Daily caught up with Janey Cao, 2012 MFA Fashion Design Alumna.

What have you been doing since graduation?

After graduation, I stayed in San Francisco for a year working as a fashion designer at Alvarado Mills for my OPT. As soon as I returned to China, I found my first job as a fashion designer for a brand called Five Plus at Trendy International Group in Guangzhou. During that period, I also took part in the Zac Posen for Five Plus Cooperation Project. I researched and develop new designs and followed up the process of fabric and design development. It was a great experience. After Five Plus, I worked as an Assistant of the English Fashion Design Professor and Textile Instructor for 1st year in ESMOD Guangzhou. During that time, I assisted and translated for the Fashion Design Professor in 2nd and 3rd year classes, as well as the Textile Instructor for 1st year preparation and planning classes, translating school work from English to Chinese. That was a wonderful time working at the school. And recently I have been busy working at EXCEPTION de MIXMIND as a textile designer.

What do you love about your job?

I love my job since I have a passion for original design. EXCEPTION de MIXMIND is one of the most famous original fashion design companies in China. I work as a textile designer. I work with fabric and create new pattern design and use different techniques for my work, and I am always happy to see my design turn into real product.

What is your average day like?

My average day begins with coffee in the morning and making a list of my goals for that day. Sometimes we have meetings and I end up working until 9pm but usually I get out of work about 6pm so I relax and play the guitar in the evening.

Where have you found inspiration lately?

I have been finding inspiration from a Chinese painter called Peng Wei and Song Dynasty art.

What is your favorite memory from your time at the School of Fashion?

My favorite memory from the School of Fashion would be my two dresses showcased during the spring show in 2011. As I remember, those dresses were from the 3D design class and that was how I first learned the 3D draping technique.

What was your biggest surprise during your time as a student?

As a student, my biggest surprise was that I found textile design was my second favorite thing. The first being fashion design. I took applied textile 1 and 2, and I used my work from those textile classes in my interview for EXCEPTION de MIXMIND and got accepted. So that was my biggest surprise – that I could work as a textile designer as well as a fashion designer.

What was the hardest fashion lesson you’ve learned?

That would have been in my 3D design class, as a student I found pattern making was the biggest challenge, because sometimes it is difficult to make designs into real garments. I remember I spent more time on pattern making and sewing than designing.

What advice would you give to students?

My advice would be keep working hard, no pain, no gain. If you don’t understand, always ask. Someday you will be grateful for what you’ve learned from the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University. Know what you are good at what you are most interested in. Always remember the 3Ws — who, when, where, and your statement for design, be professional. Don’t give up if you love fashion.

Mark your calendars for November 7^th! Project White Elephant’s new collection is launching at Shop 657!

Project White Elephant is a San Francisco based apparel brand, founded by the talented Danny Dinh, an alumnus of Academy of Art University School of Fashion. “By definition, a white elephant is a possession that is useless or troublesome; especially one that is expensive to maintain or difficult to dispose of,” Dinh explains on his site. P.W,E collection is chic, modern, edgy yet simple, definitely a perfect brand for women who love to make a statement with their outfit. Dinh proudly designs all of his collections here in San Francisco and manufactures them in a private studio in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam.

For the new collection, the brand is collaborating with Shop 657 to host a trunk show on November 7^th from 6-9 P.M. The event is sponsored by Redbull, where beverages will be served for attendees.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising.

Photo courtesy of The CFDA.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has selected 54 designers from 21 different countries for the CFDA+ 2015 Design Graduates program. Announced on October 23rd, CFDA+ is a global program dedicated to finding the best graduate fashion designers. The selected students demonstrate diverse talent with unique perspectives and creative awareness within womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, accessories, jewelry, textiles and knitwear. The designers are part of a worldwide community with the vision, potential and talent to be amongst the next top fashion designers, influencers and leaders.

Seven students from the School of Fashion were selected for the CFDA+ 2015 Design Graduates program:

JC Munoz – for Apparel/Textile Design

JC Munoz. Image Rob Curry.

2015 BFA Fashion Design graduate JC Munoz showed his aviation-inspired collection at the School of Fashion’s annual Graduation Fashion Show in May of 2015. Munoz’s prints were featured in fashionsnoops.com, He has assisted for Punky Couture and Abercrombie & Fitch, and has received recognition through several awards from the Royal Society of Arts.

JC Munoz May 2015 Graduation Collection. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Jingci Wang – for Apparel Design

Jingci Wang. Photo courtesy of Bob Toy

The MFA Fashion Design 2015 graduate showed a metallic, sequined collection in collaboration with Max Kuei Feng Lu at New York Fashion Week Spring 2016. Wang showed a collaborative menswear collection at New York Fashion Week Spring 2015. Wang won the second prize for Bosideng Scholarship, the 3rd Gunze Fashion Design-China T-shirt Recognition Award and the Triumph Inspiration China National Competition Finalist Award.

Max Kuei Feng Lu – for Apparel Design

Max Lu. Photo courtesy of Bob Toy.

In collaboration with Jingci Wang, Lu, 2015 MFA Fashion Design, showed a collection at New York Fashion Week Spring 2016 as well as Spring 2015. He has worked as a freelance print pattern designer and fashion stylist assistant, received an award from the Competition of Taiwan Textile Federation, and won first prize at Manga Fashion Design Competition.

Max and Jingci Wang NYFW Spring 2016 collaboration collection. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

Juan Chen – for Textile Design

Juan Chen. Photo courtesy of Juan Chen.

Chen, a 2015 MFA Textile Design graduate, won first place in the Fashion Snoops International Print and Pattern Competition in January 2015. She has also interned at Harputs Own and at Fashion Snoops.

Juan Chen submission for Fashionsnoops “Print and Pattern” competition. Photo courtesy of Fashionsnoops.

Livia Bianda Bolung – for Apparel Design

Livia Bianda. Photo courtesy of Rob Curry.

The BFA Fashion Design 2015 graduate showed a menswear collection inspired by football players at both the School of Fashion’s Annual Graduation Fashion Show in May 2015 as well as at New York Fashion Week Spring 2016. She has interned at Alexander Wang for menswear, was chosen for the first round in the Joe’s Blackbook Design Competition, and is now interning at Adidas.

Livia Bianda NYFW Spring 2016 collection. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

Tam Nguyen – for Textile Design.

Tam Nguyen. Photo courtesy Bob Toy.

The 2014 MFA Textile Design graduate showed a collection at New York Fashion Week Fall 2015 that explored the beauty behind textures of mold and peeling paint. She received the Columbia College Chicago December 2011 Vivian Price Scholarship.

Hang Tang and Tam Nguyen MBFW Fall 2015 collaboration collection. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

Yijia Jiang – for Apparel Design

Yijia Jiang. Photo courtesy of Yijia Jian.

Jing, 2013 BFA Fashion Design graduate, showed diverse outerwear and active wear pieces. Jiang was chosen as a finalist for the 2014 Joe’s Balckbook Design Competition and received two CFDA Scholarship awards: the $10,000 CFDA Clara Hancox Scholarship Award for Menswear Design, and the $5,000 CFDA Excellence in Technical Design scholarship.

Yijia Jian’s Joe’s Black Book 2015 Fall/Winter submission. Photo courtesy if Yijia Jian.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA) is a not-for-profit trade association whose members include more than 400 of America’s womenswear, menswear, jewelry and accessory designers. CFDA+ brings the CFDA membership and education communities together to strengthen the transition between education and industry. The CFDA takes into consideration the challenge graduates often have as they try to begin their professional journey into the industry. There is a three-phase selection process to pick the top talents around the world, and more than 500 CFDA members and their brands are invited for the process. The selected students are identified as top worthy designers and are connected to fashion houses.

The candidates go through a carefully selected portfolio review and interview process. A jury of CFDA members and leading fashion industry experts makes the final selection of the CFDA+ Design Graduates. Once selected as a finalist, the CFDA education and professional development offers mentorship, exposure and resource support to the CFDA+ 2015 Design Graduates.

Congratulations to the seven School of Fashion alumni and the 47 other designers who were selected for this wonderful opportunity!

By Isabelle Eder, BFA Fashion Styling

Antonio Luna with President Stephens at the 2015 Graduation Fashion Show. Photo by Bob Toy.

Antonio Luna, 2012 BFA Menswear Design Alumnus, presented his senior collection at the 2012 Graduation Fashion Show. In April 2013, his collection was selected for the Academy of Art University Fashion Show during the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society gala, Standing Ovations VI—San Francisco Style Gala, an annual event celebrating the city’s unique contributions to the fashion industry. Earlier this year, he launched his eponymous collection and online store.

How did you come to study in the School of Fashion?

Since childhood, I have been drawn to fashion and design. At the age of 14, I began to design special-occasion dresses that my mother would sew for my older sisters. However, the social climate in Guadalajara did not encourage men to pursue careers in fashion. I pragmatically completed a degree in Business Administration, moved to California, learned English, and began working in hospitality. This career paid reasonably well and offered growth potential, but the work did not inspire me.

I started taking fashion classes at City College of San Francisco. After two years, one of my instructors advised me that Academy of Art University offered a full scholarship to one City College fashion student each year. I knew that the Academy of Art University had an incredible four-year fashion program, and a scholarship was the only way I could get in. For the next six months, I put together a strong collection of seven looks on a budget of $4,000, which I earned waiting tables. Of the 14 students who competed, my collection was selected as the winner and I was awarded the Presidential Scholarship by Dr. Elisa Stephens. That night changed my life forever.

What is your favorite memory from your time at the School of Fashion?

Presentation days were the best. Although nerve-wracking, I learned the most about my aesthetic and the way I communicate though fashion. I also learned about the way my classmates approached challenges and channeled their creativity. This interactive structure created a rich learning environment.

What was your biggest challenge during your time as a student?

My biggest challenge was the cost of living in San Francisco. The School of Fashion curriculum is rigorous and the projects demanding, leaving little time for a part-time job. I earned a few hundred dollars per week as a waiter. After rent, my income was spent on fabric and supplies. While producing my final collection, I had to sublet the living room of my one bedroom apartment in order to buy shoes for the models. I am very grateful for that experience because I learned to be very resourceful.

Thinking back to when you were creating your senior collection, do you have any advice for students who want to create a collection for one of the University fashion shows?

Be honest with yourself in every sense – your aesthetic, your resources, your timelines, and your skills. If you decide to go for it, don’t hesitate to give it your all. Work the hardest you can. At the end of the day, your work will speak for itself on the runway and that is the best feeling of satisfaction.

Did you always know that you wanted to start your own line?

No I didn’t. At some point I wanted the security of working for somebody else. A year after the final show, I had evaluated several options but couldn’t commit because I wanted to continue to explore my own aesthetic. It has been an organic process. I have always been a hands-on person, and having my own label means that I get to learn all aspects of creating, manufacturing and merchandising my garments. I had to expand my design aesthetic to acknowledge the commercial needs of a sustainable business. I identified a niche segment of the market for special occasion menswear and I have a defined style that resonates with creative professionals.

As a designer, what is your typical day like?

I wear many hats, my day changes depending on the stage of production. If I am creating a collection, I sketch new designs, develop patterns, cut fabric, and sew samples.   It is very important for me to sew my own samples because I learn so much through the trial and error process of creating muslins. The development phase is what I enjoy the most.

Since the Bay Area garment manufacturing industry lacks the centralized infrastructure of New York or Los Angeles, the manufacturing phase requires frequent travel. My pattern grader is located in the Bayview District of San Francisco, my cutter is in the Mission, and my contract factory is in Oakland. Since I work closely with each, I find myself running back and forth to troubleshoot unexpected issues, which inevitably arise.

In the commercial or marketing phase, I focus on customer engagement and information technology (IT). For the last collection, I developed my own website and digital look book. This required me to create concepts, hire vendors, and learn the technical skills needed to run an online store. I also designed the marketing materials, including the brand style guide, stationery, business cards, and packaging. I review the status of inbound or outbound shipments daily and check emails nonstop. Finally, I commit significant time and resources to public relations and social media.

Where do you find inspiration?

Art and Architecture are my primary inspirations. I like the contrast created by the light and shadows of a building, or the compilation of colors that clash or embrace each other in harmonious or dissonant ways in a painting. Boldness can be created with simple lines and a stroke of color on a monochromatic background. I am also fascinated with the detailed construction of vintage military or police uniforms because they are skillfully crafted and define a historical masculine aesthetic.

Tell us about your new collection.

My collection is deceptively simple, it is structured yet has a soft quality. I incorporate subtle details into my garments, which translate into an understated sophistication. For Fall 2015, I used heavy weight cotton for shirts, cotton twill and canvas for pants, and wools in varying weights and colors for jackets. The palate is mostly hues of blue and teal-blue, with accents of warm ivory and rust red.

My customer is a creative professional. He works in the arts and needs special occasion garments to wear to parties, gallery openings, concerts, photo shoots, or even a first date. For these occasions, the ubiquitous uniform of jeans and a blazer won’t cut it, but a suit is not edgy enough. My customer turns to me for garments that will help him tell his unique story through menswear.

How is the launch going?

The first phase was the launch of the website/online store. The website was successfully launched in July 2015. The second phase is partnering with small contemporary boutiques for product placement. Careful selection of a stockist will increase the probability that my garments are available to the right customer at the right time.

What are your goals for the rest of 2015 and 2016?

For the rest of 2015, I will be developing small production runs of garments from the Fall collection. In addition, I have already begun to work on the Spring 2016 collection so that the samples and look book can be in front of buyers by the end of February.

Antonio Luna’s collection is currently being sold at SHOP657, a unique shop that sells Academy of Art University Alumni and current Fashion Students’ merchandise exclusively. Check out the Antonio Luna Collection on the website, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photography: Claudia Goetzelmann

Styling: Konrad Janus

Model: August Gonet

Make up: Olga Pirmatova

Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan and Pitzy Villagomez Ortega, both came from different sides of the world and study different majors at Academy of Art University, yet they have one thing in common; they are winners of two different prestigious scholarship competitions. Michelle, who is finishing her last semester at Academy of Art University Fashion Merchandising program, won YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF) 2014, while Pitzy, who is finishing her last year at Academy of Art University Fashion Design program, won CFDA Scholarship Competition earlier this year. Fashion School Daily caught up with the two winners and asked them about their achievement.

Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan. Photo courtesy of Anjani Ramly

Fashion School Daily: Can you tell us a bit of your background?

Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan: I am originally from Indonesia. This is sadly my very last semester here at the Academy of Art University, but I will finally get my BFA in Fashion Merchandising! I transferred to the Academy of Art University from a fashion school in Singapore after realizing that the curriculum was not adequate to help me pursue my future career in fashion merchandising and marketing.

Pitzy Villagomez Ortega. Photo courtesy of Pitzy Villagomez Ortega

Pitzy Villagomez Ortega: I was born and raised in Los Cabos, Mexico, which is a very small city. I was always involved in fine arts, such as painting, sculpting and I was always interested in foreign culture and art. I moved to china when I was 18 to study Chinese Mandarin. After two years, I moved to San Francisco to purse my career in fashion.

FSD: What made you pursue career in fashion?

SMH: Honestly, this might sound a bit cliché, but I was one of those girls in high school who will get caught reading Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar (back when smartphones were not available) as opposed to the mandatory high school textbooks. I realized that while my school peers were all venturing into Finance, Medical, etc., I did not share the same logic to pursue those so-called outstanding careers that would map out one’s bright future. I have always liked the marketing aspect from fashion, on how clothes that started out as pure necessity can be reiterated as something that is fun and creative, and that it can also be made to become the best representation of you. I mean, personally for me, subconsciously, people will want to be perceived in a certain way, and what better way to present yourself to the world, if not by the choice of clothing you made?

PVO: I was always involved in arts, and I knew at a very young age that I was going to pursue an art major, but as I discovered myself, I realized that fashion was always an interest of mine that I wanted to pursue for my professional career.

Photo courtesy of YMA FSF

FSD: Let’s talk about the competition, can you briefly explain about the YMA competition?

SMH: I took part in the YMA Competition back in 2014 when I was enrolled in Keanan Duffty’s Product Development class. In addition to the task that Keanan had assigned for us, the YMA project became our midterm project that we have to work each week for completion. The YMA project required us to find ways, be it through the design or business aspect, of how Lululemon can revitalize itself as an athletic apparel brand in the industry.

Photo courtesy of CFDA

FSD: Now Pitzy, can you briefly explain about the CFDA competition you partook in?

PVO: For the CFDA competition, we had to submit 12 looks based on your choice of season and inspiration, where you could take your creativity in whatever direction you wanted it to go. This has to be presented in an 11×15 paper and professionally presented, of course.

“Luluxe” logo. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan

FSD: What did you submit for the competition?

SMH: I submitted my business plan to develop a higher-end of Lululemon’s line called “Luluxe” that consists of high technical and luxurious fabrications for women who have higher purchasing power.

Pitzy Villagomez Ortega’s submission for CFDA 2015 competition. Photo courtesy of Pitzy Villagomez Ortega

PVO: I submitted a handmade book with a matching packaging that had acrylic paint on it. It’s a technique I used on fabric as a textile for my collection.

Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan’s submission for YMA FSF 2014 competition. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan

FSD: Can you walk us through the creation process of your work?

SMH: I knew from the beginning that Lululemon is not a cheap brand, and I also noticed that they have two primary target markets, one that really appreciates the Yogi lifestyle, and another category of people who truly seek for luxurious and comfortable fabric that they can wear everyday. What made me decide to create a capsule line called “Luluxe” was the idea that both of the two primary target markets that I mentioned have something in common: high purchasing power. I think that the target market of women that I mentioned would be much more aggregated into purchasing products that appeal to them should super luxurious and technical fabrications be used. In addition, I also added the personalized and customization services to the “Luluxe” capsule collection to attract those who have high purchasing power so they feel special and exclusive.

Pitzy Villagomez Ortega’s submission for CFDA 2015 competition. Photo courtesy of Pitzy Villagomez Ortega

PVO: My creative process always starts with anything that captures my attention, mostly something cultural, art, or combination of both, but it’s always more than one inspiration. As I do my research I merge both creating something unique and eclectic.

FSD: What was the most challenging part of the competition?

SMH: I must say that the 10-page limitation was truly the most challenging part. I had to make many sacrifices such as remove several key words and images so it doesn’t exceed the page restriction. Another challenge is to research about the high technical fabrications. There are a lot of companies out there that are developing new technological fabrications. And personally, skimming through hundreds of fabrications and select a few that would suit “Luluxe” was truly time consuming and difficult in a way, since I am not familiar about high-tech fabrications.

PVO: The challenge behind this project was, time management. Working on several projects at the same time is really challenging!

FSD: How did you prepare yourself for the competition?

SMH: Each week, I tried to do further in-depth research about Lululemon, about how they have been struggling over the past few years, as well as their financial reports data. This is where I find the project to be enjoyable, I really like to analyze data and/or current situations to see where the troubling issues occur and find out solutions through performable strategies. I continued to find further research on the whole marketing and consumerism aspect of Lululemon and I consulted with Keanan Duffty several times to ensure that “Luluxe” is on the right track.

PVO: I wasn’t prepared at all, because when you realize you are part of the competition you start working on it right away and you don’t have time to be intimidated, and in fact, I never actually prepared myself because I believe that spontaneous work, research and exploration always lead me to more creative ideas.

Senior Directory of Merchandising at Academy of Art University School of Fashion, Keanan Duffty, Academy of Art University YMA FSF 2014 winners; Celina Enriquez, Stephanie Michelle Hendrawan, Martin Evensen, and Busara Buty. Photo courtesy of YMA FSF

FSD: Michelle, as one of the YMA FSF winners, you had the opportunity to attend the awards reception dinner in New York, what was that like?

SMH: Honestly, I thought that it was going to be overwhelming at first, but it was not. I was one of the four winners, and I think that I can say for the other three winners that we all had a great time there. It was unfortunate though that I did not get to see Iris Apfel in person as she was sick at that moment, but we still saw her video that she recorded during the dinner event. But the most important thing of all was that I got to meet with a lot of key industry people as well as fellow YMA winners who came from various schools in America.

CFDA Executive Director, Lisa Smilor, Anh Phuong Thy Do, President Elisa Stephens, Pitzy Villagomez Ortega and Executive Director of Academy of Art University School of Fashion, Simon Ungless.Photo courtesy of John Perez.

FSD: Pitzy, how did it feel like to be awarded and meet the Executive Director of CFDA, Lisa Smilor?

PVO: Wining this competition was such a surprise and meeting her was such a pleasure, she is a great woman. This is just a proof that my hard work as an artist means something to the world, and that’s why I am very grateful for the scholarship.

FSD: How do you think winning this prestigious competition will contribute to your career in the future?

SMH: Winning the competition has definitely helped me to gain some exposure out there. This past summer, I was honored to be a part of Oscar de la Renta’s Production Team intern thanks to Marie Colletta of YMA, who is continuously looking out for the winners, help us to get internships and give career opportunities in the fashion industry. But, nonetheless, I think that it all comes back to how you’re able to maintain a good relationship with your mentor or with your bosses, to ensure that you will gain more connection as well as better reputation for yourself out there.

PVO: CFDA is such an important organization that has helped so many designers, and wining it makes me somehow part of it. It gives me the advantage of more connections and direct help from the CFDA team.

FSD: You are both graduating soon (congrats!), what’s your next step?

SMH: Definitely finding a job here in San Francisco, or hopefully in New York if God allows.

PVO: My next step? I have many plans, but as any other students I want to get experience in the fashion field and then move to NY or Italy.

FSD: Can you give the School of Fashion students who are partaking in these competitions advice on what they should do to increase their chances of winning the YMA FSF competition?

SMH: Always do research from credible publications and keep researching on them from different aspects. Also, see what the chosen companies are currently doing or have been doing in the past to make sure that you are not repeating what they are or have been doing. The YMA judges panel will want to see a project that is new and beneficial to the chosen company so make sure to get their attention by doing something different. Also on the interview stage, be friendly and do not reply in a shy manner, the judges panel does not like that. They want you to get comfortable and to have an engaging conversation with them. If you feel uncomfortable and shy, you will also make them feel uncomfortable, and that lessen the chance for you to win the YMA Competition. Good luck to those of you participating in the competition!

FSD: Can you give the School of Fashion students who are partaking in these competitions advice on what they should do to increase their chances of winning the CFDA competition?

PVO: All I can say is, this is the time (in college) to explode your creativity to the maximum level, and explore yourself as a designer; take advantage of it.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising.

Sara Iravani is no stranger to ambition, and since graduating with an MFA in Journalism in 2013 she has put that ambition to the test with an array of creative jobs. Her latest career move: Taking on the role of Chief Copywriter at Stella & Dot. Iravani also contributes regularly to the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper’s Style Section, and has had her work published in SOMA Magazine, SF Gate, and Refinery29.

We sat down with the alumna to discuss her experience, work, and how Australia played factor in her decision to get a master’s in fashion journalism.

“The most important thing as a writer is to not pigeonhole yourself into an outlet because you’ll make your career avenue really narrow.“

JESSICA QUINN: Congratulations on your promotion!

SARA IRAVANI: Thank you! To take on a senior role at a company like Stella & Dot was definitely a big jump for me. They just launched two new brands, so for one creative team to juggle three different brands that have three different voices and three different marketing strategies, it’s pretty crazy!

JQ: As Stella & Dot’s Chief Copywriter, what are your key responsibilities?

SI: One of the big things is maintaining brand voice and how to elevate the voice and brand through copy.

JQ: You started your career as a marketing assistant…

SI: Yeah, I’ve had very sporadic life choices. I graduated from college and moved to Australia with my best friend because she said, “Hey my cousin is this fashion designer and she has this line.” I thought that’d be cool to get a job, so she hooked me up and I was down there working. It was an eight-person team and was just a really good way to get my hands dirty. I got to do a lot of things under the brand manager like, start a blog, take pictures, and do social media.

JQ: How does that experience as a marketing assistant translate into what you’re doing now?

SI: Copywriting has a lot to do with marketing a product, so starting out in marketing helped a lot. Also I was there when Australia was sort of breaking out into the internet and seeing how blogging, tech writing, and making videos was really important for branding.

JQ: Your undergraduate degree is in textile and clothing. What made you want to continue your schooling with a Master’s in Fashion Journalism at the Academy of Art University?

SI: I didn’t know what I wanted to do with textiles and clothing, but I knew that I liked fashion and I was interested in talking about things. I was like, okay I’m interested in all these things that I’m doing in Australia and I think this will benefit me in the long run. Media was changing when I was going to go to grad school and I wanted to be in the middle of that. I wanted to be a black belt in media.

I liked the journalism program because it wasn’t just straight writing – it was like, if you wanted to do graphic design, you could do graphic design, or you could do styling. I think all those things are super important if you [want] be a writer.

JQ: How do these degrees intersect in your career now?

SI: Textile and clothing was an art science degree, it was one part the chemical composition of fabric and design, one part business and marketing, and one part sociology of clothing. Being able to talk about clothing and understand where people are making clothes and under the fabric industry and the clothing industry gave me a good background when I got to Academy of Art University. I had already worked for a brand, I already knew about production, so it wasn’t hard for me to talk about clothing for an article.

JQ: Did you always know that you wanted to be a writer?

SI: When I was younger, I don’t think I really knew what I wanted to do, but I loved reading, loved talking about world and current events, and I loved clothing. Once I opened my eyes a little bit, I was like, “Okay I want to write for a brand or a label, I want to manage the communication aspect.”

JQ: What is your advice for students and recent graduates who are trying to get their work published for the first time?

SI: Reach out to people. Don’t be scared to go on LinkedIn and [research] people that you are like, “I want to be that person.” Take people out to coffee and pick their brain about how they got somewhere. Be hungry, hit up an editor and see if they need freelancers! Doing things like that make you confident enough to just email people on the spot and be like, “Hey, are you in need of any kind of [help]?”

To learn more about the only BA and MA accredited programs in the United States in Fashion Journalism please visit: http://www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion

Written by Jessica Quinn, BA Fashion Journalism

Elena Slivnyak. Photo courtesy of Elena Slivnyak

After graduating from Academy of Art University with a BFA in Fashion Design, Ukranian-born Elena Slivnyak has successfully launched her own fashion brand, IIMUAHII (pronounced “eee-mooah-eee”). IIMUAHII produces avant-garde fashion with a unique and distinctive style that is loved by celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Tyra Banks, and Debby Harry, just to name a few.

The brand also made a debut on the silver screen by appearing in the Hunger Games: Mockingjay film. Recently, this environmental friendly brand appeared in Los Angeles Fashion Week and the first annual 360 Fashion & Tech “Startup Runway & Innovation Awards”. So naturally, we caught up with Elena Silvanyak and inquired about her remarkable successes.

Fashion School Daily: First of all, I would like to congratulate you for all of the successes you have achieved. It interests me how you went to establish your brand right after you graduated as opposed to gaining some experience first under other fashion brands. What drove you to take such leap?

Elena Slivnyak: Thank you! When I graduated in 2010, the economy was still really bad and I wasn’t able to get a job. I tried applying to many different companies, different positions and even other countries. The process was very hard to swallow and I knew I had to do something for myself. So instead of sitting around waiting for a job opportunity to arrive, I decided to make a collection and go for it myself.

Photo courtesy of IIMUAHII

FSD: Why IIMUAHII? What’s the idea behind the name?

ES: IIMUAHII was a name that I coined by playing around with different letters. I wanted the name to sound very futuristic and alienesque, and almost look like it’s from another planet. I also knew that I wanted something one-of-a-kind and that no one in the world had, hence came IIMUAHII.

FSD: Your clothes are absolutely beautiful! Where do you usually find inspiration?

ES: I love looking to things that aren’t an ideal kind of beauty for inspiration. I love architecture and unusual shapes and silhouettes and look to things like weird creatures, insects, plants, and other unusual forms of nature. I’ve always also been inspired by anything that has to do with science fiction and surrealism. With everything I create, I love to explore emotional settings that evoke strong feelings from the viewer.

FSD: Why are you pursuing a more niche market and not a ready-to-wear?

ES: Ready-to-wear really bores me and does not make me as happy as when I create avant-garde type of clothes. I really enjoy costuming more than ready-to-wear because it’s really who I am. I had to do a lot of soul searching to finally realize that this is what I want to pursue. My goal is to work more in the entertainment industries around the world creating amazing and striking imagery for viewers.

FSD: What’s a day-to-day like of Elena Slivnyak at IIMUAHII?

ES: Sometimes there is no day-to-day for me. Sometimes there is work non-stop for months at a time and then there are months where I’m not busy at all and I usually take this time to myself and regroup for the next set of projects. I take on many different projects that keep my business afloat whether it’s a custom jacket for a client or a bigger project for someone in the entertainment industry.

Elena Slivnyak’s design in Hunger Games: Mockingjay. Photo courtesy of Elena Slivnyak.

FSD: Speaking of the entertainment industry, your clothes appeared in Hunger Games: Mockingjay; how did it happen?

ES: One day I received an email from the costume designers of the film Kurt and Bob. They found my design company online and commissioned a few costumes from me based on what they saw in my sci-fi collection. It was an amazing experience to know that people of that status are actually noticing my work. This helped me to make the decision to continue creating unusual and unique fashion.

IIMUAHII at LAFW Spring 2016. Photo courtesy of John Eckmier

FSD: IIMUAHII presented during LAFW 2016; what preparation was involved for the show? And can you tell us a bit about the collection?

ES: I usually avoid fashion week productions because they are of no benefit to what I do and me. I decided to go through this one in LA so that I can invite my film industry contacts to view my new work up close and personal. The preparation was very grueling just like when you are participating in any fashion week event. I normally just produce a look book and send it out to various people around the world to get people see my work, so this was not normal for me to do. The main reason for this decision was to go down there and make more contacts in the film and entertainment industry.

FSD: In your opinion, do you think LAFW can match the hype of NYFW?

ES: I really don’t know. I think that NYFW has gone down hill from what it used to be and it doesn’t really interest me. LAFW is incomparable to NYFW, as it’s on a smaller scale and I think they have a long way to go to match NYFW hype.

IIMUAHII. Photo courtesy of IIMUAHII

FSD: Recently you were in San Francisco for IBM Cloud and 360Fashion Network event, can you tell us about the event? And how was it?

ES: I was approached by the organizers to participate in this event infused with technology and fashion. At that time I was working on a fashion tech accessory line with my business partner and thought this would be an amazing opportunity to showcase some of the designs. I love this world where fashion and technology mixed. I feel closer to it than I am now to the existing fashion world because it’s so futuristic and there are so many possibilities to do imaginative and innovative clothes and products. I think I will be exploring this world more deeply in the future, because what I do goes hand-in-hand with it so well.

FSD: What’s the best memory/experience you have from all of these successes? 

ES: I think the most rewarding part of my career is to have been working on costumes for Hunger Games: Mockingjay. I get ecstatic when the fantasies in my head come alive into amazing look book creations, which I use to convey to the world who I am and how I’m feeling at the time. Being able to express myself through my art is more fulfilling than being financially stable at a 9-5 job.

FSD: Can you give an advice for the Academy of Art University students who want to pursue careers in fashion industry?

ES: Yes! My advice would be: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, always seek them out yourself. Sometimes all it takes is an email or a phone call to get what you want. Be persistent and blindly believe in what you do. If you’re passionate about your work, the world will notice. Don’t rely on others to teach you, the best knowledge comes from trying things out yourself. There will be people who don’t like what you do and you cannot let that discourage you from moving forward. I don’t think I would be where I am if I hadn’t got an amazing education from the Academy of Art University.

Check out this amazing video of IIMUAHII

For more information about IIMUAHII by Elena Slivnyak, visit her website here.

Written by Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Rabôt

For the 2012 Graduation Fashion Show, Jacqueline Rabôt, 2012 BFA Fashion Design, collaborated with Julie Seltzer, BFA Textile Design, on a womenswear collection that was one of the highlights of the show. Abercrombie & Fitch was so impressed by her collection and portfolio that they offered her a design position after the show.

What have you been doing since graduation?
I started my career working at Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister and have since transitioned to work as a designer at Free People.

What do you love about your job?
I love that the company that I work for has a similar aesthetic to my own. It’s refreshing that I am able to envision myself wearing the clothing that I design.

What is your average day like?
A day in the life at Free People is exhilarating. I find myself doing everything from mocking and draping on the form, sketching product for multiple deliveries, fitting on models, researching the latest trends and presenting our work to the buyers and head of the company.

Where have you found inspiration lately?
My main source of inspiration is thrifting and vintage shopping. There are some hidden gems of thrift stores in the Philadelphia area and I can spend hours on end sorting through the used garments to find something rare and spectacular. I would urge anyone in the NYC area to check out the ‘China Through the Looking Glass Exhibit’ at the MET – it was one of those exhibits that will stick with me for a long, long time.

What is your favorite memory from your time at the School of Fashion?
The memory that stands out most prominently was during those last hours of completing collection. I think I will always remember the intense scrambling to sew on that last bead and hem the final dress. I distinctly remember the chaos on the top floor of the Polk building and then the relief and joy once every garment was completed and handed in.

What was your biggest challenge during your time as a student?
My greatest challenge was managing every aspect that senior year entails. I was juggling a part-time job, completing collection, working on my portfolio, attending four other classes, working on multiple side projects and applying to jobs (which some require expansive projects). I remember it as a whirlwind and if I stopped moving or slowed down, I would fall behind. Once the semester was completed, my hard work had paid off and every stressful moment was worth it.

What was the hardest fashion lesson you’ve learned?
To not overanalyze fashion. It should in fact be very simple to criticize your work by asking yourself the question of “Is it beautiful?”. I learned that from professor John Bauernfeind in the School of Fashion and that is the mantra that I use when critiquing my work to this day.

Any ‘insider information’ from the fashion industry that could you share with fashion students today?
Personality and being level-headed is as important as being talented and creative. When you’re working with co-workers day in and day out and you see them more than your boyfriend and your family, it’s important to get along. Add a stressful job in the mix and you’ll quickly realize the importance of a smile and even temper.

What advice would you give to students?
To be open about the job that you take after graduating. The chances that you will land your dream job directly out of school is rare. Be patient. You have your entire career ahead of you!

J’Amy Tarr, 2003 MFA Fashion Design and Textile Design Alumna

When did you launch your eponymous collection?

February 2011 in Seattle, WA

Tell us about collection.

I design a collection of modern minimal outerwear that is designed and manufactured within 50 miles from my Mill Valley Studio. The collection focuses on fit, tailoring and luxurious fabrics that evoke modern elegance and glamour.

The collection for Fall/Winter 2015 combines woodland wildflowers with military precision. A range of forest green to gunmetal grey color a vision of whimsy, structure and texture.

The J’Amy Tarr Outerwear collections have been spotlighted in the press including the Cover of the San Francisco Chronicle Style section, Racked SF, New York Post, Refinery29, Southern Living, Marin Magazine, Fashion Times, SF Gate, and Rue Magazine.

Where do you retail?

My website

Dress – SF

Blanc – SF

Two Birds – SF

7 on Locust – Mill Valley

Koze – Tiburon

Blanc – San Anselmo

Haven – Larkspur

Manaz – Los Gatos

What inspires you?

When I was young, my grandparents traveled to Japan and were inspired by the peaceful Bonsai gardens of the people they stayed with. Back in Los Feliz, Los Angeles, my grandfather began his own Bonsai garden in their side yard. A green thumb turned a single miniature juniper tree into bonsai landscape and a place of meditation in his urban world. I loved watching him manicure the trees into their simple yet powerful shapes. These observations as a child have impacted my aesthetic as a designer today. Creating designs that are quiet yet strong, like the bonsai tree, are what I consider beautiful.

What is next for you in 2015?

This Fall is super-charged. I will be finishing production, delivering to stores, attending trunk shows at stores/yacht clubs/galleries/charity events and continue to connect with my customer.

What’s the funniest thing that’s happened recently in your business?

I received a package via Fedex recently that was addressed to me, but it should have been shipped to a PR firm in Nashville TN. I called the national fashion magazine who shipped it to me to ask how they wanted me to reroute it. While speaking with them, I had an opportunity to pitch my outerwear line. Before I knew it, I was put in touch with their Fashion Editor.

By doing a good deed, I was able to show my Fall 2015 collection to one of the most sought after magazines in the US! Sometimes you connect with people in unusual ways!

Any favorite memories from your time at the School of Fashion?

During my junior year in the School of Fashion, I was chosen to be interviewed by Evening Magazine, a locally produced magazine program on TV. They followed me around for an entire day video taping me sew, draw, drape while asking me about my experiences and dreams to become a designer. When I saw the segment on TV, it was an incredible feeling. That initial fashion PR experience taught me about speaking on camera about my designs.

On a whim, I entered an International Design Competition during my senior year. With the help of technical pattern extraordinaire, Gonbee Tanaka [a former instructor in the School of Fashion], I realized my ambitious design. I ended up becoming a finalist and was flown to Korea for the show. I remember having to present my designs to the panel before the fashion show. It was an exciting experience, especially when I won an award in the finals!

And after graduating?

After earning double MFA degrees with honors, I worked on a dress for Beyoncé that made the cover of InStyle magazine while interning at Michael Kors.

What was the hardest fashion lesson you’ve learned?

Production can be one of the most difficult parts of the business. On the outside, customers have no idea what goes into making garments. Outerwear is extra challenging because there are several components involved when constructing the pieces. I have learned that working with a factory, in person, is worth a thousand words. Meeting with the workers personally saves many hours of miscommunication and challenges. Plus, I enjoying showing them the press the collection receives, and thanking them for being a part of it. I couldn’t do it without them!

Any professional tips that would who give fashion students today?

Social media numbers are often totally bogus. Several small businesses buy followers to inflate the appearance of their business. The bulk of my customer isn’t on Instagram, so I am not spending hours on that type of media like many other designers. For me, it is about meeting my customer face-to-face as much as possible. That is what drives real sales and ultimately repeat sales. Don’t forget to connect with your customer in more ways than through your Instagram account!

What advice would you give to students?

There are many paths to success in the fashion industry. What might work for one person may not be right for you. The fashion industry is always looking for new perspectives so stay true to yourself and stay unique.

Check out more of J’Amy Tarr’s collection on her website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Photos courtesy of J’Amy Tarr.

Kate Black. Photo courtesy of Kate Black

“Where ethics meets aesthetics,” is the slogan of online destination for eco-fashion and sustainable living enthusiasts, Magnifeco. Recently, the founder of Magnifeco, Kate Black, poured all of her wisdom and knowledge into a book with the same title; Magnifeco: Your Head-to-Toe-Guide to Ethical Fashion and Non-Toxic Beauty. Black, who is the board member of New York City Fair Trade Coalition (NYCFTC), came to Academy of Art University School of Fashion to share her expertise on the rising issue of sustainability to us. The event that took place on November 17^th was attended by many of excited students who couldn’t wait to be enlightened.

Yangtze River in Chongqing, China turns red from textile waste pollution. Photo courtesy of ChinaFotoPress via Getty Images.

In the wake of China’s red water up to the recent Tirupur, India purple lake; the fashion industry is currently under sieged by the international community for its environmentally irresponsible business practices. Black’s arrival at School of Fashion couldn’t be any more perfect as she bestows us with her knowledge on the issue. The one hour or so event boiled down into seven key points that could help us into a more ethical and environmentally responsible consumer. Below are the seven key points from Kate Black’s event:

We burden our bodies with more chemicals than we think

We’d like to think that our diet is the only thing that affects our health, but truth to be told, what we apply to our skin, which is the largest human’s organ, – shampoo, shaving cream, body lotion, mask – can also affect our health. According to Magnifeco: Your Head-to-Toe-Guide to Ethical Fashion and Non-Toxic Beauty, average men uses six personal care products a day, which contains about 85 different chemicals, while the female counterpart, uses double the amount of men’s consumption which brings about to 168 chemicals on a daily basis.

FDA doesn’t always ‘protect’ us

Ever since its establishment in 1938, the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) has only banned or restricted total of 11 ingredients used for personal care products such as shampoos, soaps, shaving creams, perfumes, colognes and make up. This number is extremely low compared to the hotlist of over 600 banned or restricted ingredients the Canadian has. The gap is even higher for the European Union, where stricter regulations and rules are imposed. As many as 1,300 chemicals from cosmetics are banned or restricted.

Kate Black’s Magnifeco: Your Head-to-Toe Guide to Ethical Fashion and Non-Toxic Beauty. Photo courtesy of Kate Black.

Labels don’t say everything

The labels you read before you purchase a product doesn’t tell you every single thing that used to create such product. For example, a bottle of fragrance might contain up to 4,000 different unlisted ingredients.

Big business, big contribution

As much as $1,5 trillion is involved in the world’s third-largest industry; Fashion. In terms of trade intensity, Fashion industry is second only to largest polluter of global clean water, agriculture. Imagine how big of an impact this business has on the environment.

Fashion is not sustainable

Fashion industry produces as many as 90 billion garments annually and most of it is produced from virgin materials (not recycled). The amount of raw materials this industry seizes from the environment is inconceivable.

Consumer’s behavior is not sustainable

In 21^st century, us as consumer are buying garments at unprecedented rate, with average of 62 items per year and there are billions of us globally. What’s worse is that 18 of those garments never get worn and that totals to almost 1,7 billion unworn garments. In this time as well we are paying less per item than before. The cheaper the item, the lower the quality it has and the cheaper production cost for the company.  As much as $19 we spend per piece.

Your clothes leave carbon footprint

According to the research, ¾ carbon footprint from a garment happens after it is purchased. All energy used in the process of creating a garment, from fiber stage all the way to transportation to your closet doesn’t come any closer to the amount of energy consumed when you wash it.

In addition to the seven key points Black brought up during the event, she also gave us tips how to be ethical and environmentally responsible when we are shopping for gifts this upcoming holiday season. Keep a close eye on Fashion School Daily for these great holiday shopping tips!

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising.

Veejay Floresca. Photo courtesy of Veejay Floresca

Young and already full of achievements, that’s Veejay Floresca for you! The MFA Fashion Design senior has starred on the first season of Project Runway Philippines, appeared on various fashion publications with her designs and just last year she was named the Grand Prize Winner of LA Fashion Design Competition 2014. It’s not easy to talk about Floresca in just one blog post due to her many achievements. But we have managed to condense it for you as she shares her journey from Manila to San Francisco.

Fashion School Daily: You are still very young, yet you have hoarded so many achievements, Congratulations! Can you tell us a bit of your background?

Veejay Floresca: I was born and raised in the Philippines. After attaining my bachelor’s degree in Manila, I moved to London where I finished an associate degree on Bridalwear. Subsequently, I went back to Manila and worked hard to save money for my master’s degree here at Academy of Art University. I was born as a male and transitioned to female in 2013. Being a transgender in California allows me to pursue my goals and be the most authentic version of myself.

Veejay Floresca’s designs at LA Fashion Design Competition 2014. Photo courtesy of Dave Lohr.

FSD: I can see that you are very passionate about fashion, is it something that you have always wanted to do for your career? When did you become aware of your passion for fashion?

VF: I am very creative and passionate about arts. I remember when I was a kid I would always sketch on the back of my notebooks. I was always selected as the ‘Class Artist’ because my classmates believed in my creativity. Although, in high school I thought I would become a lawyer. However that dream shattered when I didn’t pass the entrance exams, hence I didn’t get accepted to the law schools I applied for. But I didn’t give up, instead I chose another route; I applied for AB Fashion Design major and I was granted a full scholarship to which I graduated with cum laude. It made me realize that I was destined to become a Fashion Designer.

FSD: You moved from Philippines to San Francisco, do you notice any differences between fashion in Philippines and fashion here in United States?

VF: There is a huge difference between fashion in Philippines and USA. In Manila, I was trained to design dresses and formal wear such as evening gowns and cocktail dresses for parties or special events. Here in San Francisco, I’m learning to focus on separates like jackets, pants, skirts and coats! The trend is also different. Here in the USA, we are more focused on designing ready to wear, but in Manila, it’s more on the lace applique, beadworks and draping. I think learning both techniques makes me a better and more experienced designer.

Veejay Floresca’s Spring 2015 collection. Photo courtesy of Veejay Floresca.

FSD: How do you describe your style?

VF: I refer my style as “updated classic.” I start from the classic, and re-invent it to something for contemporary. I want my clothes to be wearable. I envision a strong independent woman with class and style wearing my clothes.

FSD: You have established your own business in Philippines and still going to school here at the Academy of Art University. How can you juggle these two different occupations with the time difference and distance?

VF: It’s very hard. As an entrepreneur and designer at the same time, it is very challenging to focus on both aspects of fashion; creative aspect and business aspect. I don’t have a business a partner and working in my own company in Philippines and studying here in California taught me to be disciplined, focused on my goals and work harder. I hired people I trust to represent me in Philippines but all the designs are mine. I have a small team who are working with me to execute my visions. My goal is to start another business here in the US after I finish school.

FSD: Which one do you like more; being a business owner or a student? Why?

VF: I would say I like being a business owner more because I have more freedom to experiment and be creative than a student. But being a student helps me a lot. Coming here with high expectations is totally worth it. I have learned so many things from all my classes. I am happy that I have met talented students and passionate teachers who share their expertise to us. It’s a long journey of hard work, creativity and dedication to complete a master’s degree.

Veejay Floresca’s collections on Project Runway Philippines Season 1. Photo courtesy of Project Runway Philippines.

FSD: You starred in Project Runway Philippines season 1. How did you end up participating? Can you share some of your experience from that?

VF: I didn’t win the show, but I was one of the top three participants who showed the collections in Fashion Week. That experience taught me to work under pressure, execute my own designs without any assistance and most importantly, it became a platform for me to show the Filipinos what I can do as a designer. It opened a lot of doors of opportunities for my career.

FSD: How was participating in Project Runway contributed to your career?

VF: It helps me build my confidence to join Project Runway Season 15 here in the US.

Veejay Floresca’s designs at LA Fashion Design Competition 2014. Photo courtesy of Dave Lohr.

FSD: Just last year you partook in LA Fashion Week Design Competition 2014 and came out as Grand Prize Winner. Can you tell us about the competition and the collection you presented?

VF: I flew to NYC to audition for Project Runway Season 13 but I didn’t make it. I told myself that I should join another competition and a friend of mine told me about this design competition in LA, which was the LA Fashion Week Design Competition 2014. I created 10 looks and showed it during LA Fashion Week. I was lucky to win the competition, as there were so many talented designers who participated.

A wedding dress by Madore by Veejay Floresca. Photo courtesy of Madore by Veejay Floresca.

FSD: Let’s talk about your bridal line, Madore by Veejay Floresca. What’s behind the name Madore? And why did you choose to do bridal line?

VF: I chose the name Madore because that is the name of my mom. She is my inspiration and I admire her so much. She’s the most important woman in my life. I focused on bridal wear after I studied Fashion Bridalwear in London. It’s a huge profit industry and at the same time, it is very rewarding to work with women who are getting married. They are very pleasing to work with and to me; it’s so fulfilling to be part of someone’s love story by creating a dress they wear on their special day.

Veejay Floresca’s design. Photo courtesy of Francis Gum

FSD: Aside from bridal line, you also do ready-to-wear. Which one do you like better? Why?

VF: My RTW line is called “FOUR28” because that is my birthday, April 28 J. Designing RTW is easier than designing bridal because in bridalwear you need to consider a lot of details and the fit must be immaculate and flawless, but I would say I love both. It’s like apples and oranges. You can’t really compare both.

FSD: You are currently finishing your last year at the Academy of Art University. What’s next for you?

VF: I’m planning to visit 10 countries in Europe as a reward for myself and work harder!

FSD: What’s the best life lesson you have learned so far?

VF: Believe in yourself. It has to start from you first. If you can’t, then how can you expect others to believe in you.

For more information about Veejay Floresca, visit her website here.

Written by, Taufik Marasabessy, BFA Merchandising

Photo via Freshstylemag.com

Don’t have an internship lined up yet? Looking for a PR internship? Then you’re in luck– the School of Fashion PR & Special Events office is looking for a spring intern! Read on for details on the position and how to apply.

The School of Fashion PR intern will need to be able to assist and learn about the following:

• Support the master list of press/media mentions; update press archive books for the School of Fashion

• Draft press releases and/or content sent to journalists/publications

• Draft content to be posted to FashionSchoolDaily.com

• Draft and post content to social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram

• Prepare for and support the PR team around New York Fashion Week in New York and/or the Spring Graduation Fashion Show

• Organize fashion club volunteers to assist with events

• Assist the public relations staff with events including RSVP/check-in management, hosting, etc.

• Assist the public relations office with the research of new media contacts and maintaining media updates

• Assist with photo editing and distribution of photo files to BFA + MFA graduates

• Inventory responsibilities will include: organization of inventory related to industry pulls and returns of collections stored in the fashion closet; PR Office supplies; and PR closet

To qualify for the internship, you must be a current student at Academy of Art University with a minimum 3.0 GPA. BFA students must have completed 90 units and MFA students must have already passed his or her mid-point review. This internship is unpaid, for class credit. We are seeking a candidate with proficiency/skill in the following:

• Strong writer

• Works independently and as a team member

• Punctual/on time

• Organized and Detail Oriented

• Ability to multitask

• Data Entry

• Excellent Communications – interpersonal, phone, email/written

• Understanding of Photoshop/photo-editing

• Microsoft Excel + Microsoft Office

• Google docs

If you think you’d be a great fit for the internship, apply by sending your resume and two writing samples to fashionschooldaily@academyart.edu. Applications will be accepted through Monday, January 15!

Photo courtesy of Janey Cao

2012 MFA Fashion Design alumna Janey Cao has dual fashion industry experiences from the Bay Area and her home country, China. Recently, FSD caught up with the textile and fashion design enthusiast and asked her about her post-graduation journey.

Fashion School Daily: What have you been doing since graduation?

Janey Cao: After graduation, I stayed in San Francisco for a year working as a fashion designer at Alvarado Mills for my OPT. As soon as I returned to China, I found my first job as a fashion designer for a brand called Five Plus at Trendy International Group in Guangzhou. During that period, I also took part in the Zac Posen for Five Plus Cooperation Project. I researched and develop new designs and followed up the process of fabric and design development. It was a great experience. After Five Plus, I worked as an Assistant of the English Fashion Design Professor and Textile Instructor for 1st year in Esmod Guangzhou. During that time, I assisted and translated for the Fashion Design Professor in 2^nd  and 3^rd year classes, as well as the Textile Instructor for 1^st  year preparation and planning classes, translating school work from English to Chinese. That was a wonderful time working at the school. And recently I have been busy working at EXCEPTION de Mixmind as a textile designer.

FSD: What do you love about your job?

JC: I love my job since I have a passion for original design. EXCEPTION de Mixmind is one of the famous original fashion design companies in China. I work as a textile designer. I work with fabric and create new pattern design and use different techniques for my work, and I am always happy to see my design turn into the real product.

FSD: What is your average day like?

JC: My average day begins with coffee in the morning and making a list of my goals for that day. Sometimes we have meetings and I end up working until 9pm, but usually I get out of work about 6pm so I relax and play the guitar in the evening.

FSD: Where have you found inspiration lately?

JC: I have been finding inspiration from a Chinese painter called Peng Wei and Song Dynasty art.

FSD: What is your favorite memory from your time at the School of Fashion?

JC: My favorite memory from the School of Fashion would be my two dresses showcased during the spring show in 2011. As I remember, those dresses were from the 3D design class and that was how I first learned the 3D draping technique.

FSD: What was your biggest challenge / surprise during your time as a student?

JC: As a student, my biggest surprise was that I found textile design was my second favorite thing as a student. I took applied textile 1&2, and I used my work from those textile classes in my interview in EXCEPTION de Mixmind and got accepted. So that was my biggest surprise – that I could work as a textile designer as well as a fashion designer.

FSD: What was the hardest fashion lesson you’ve learned?

JC: The hardest fashion lesson I have learned would be in3D design class; as a student I found pattern making was the biggest challenge, because sometimes it is difficult to make my designs into real garments. I remember I spent more time on pattern making and sewing than designing.

FSD: Any ‘insider information’ from the fashion industry that you could share?

JC: Know what you are good at what you are most interested in. Always remember the 3Ws — who, when, where, and your statement for design, be professional. Don’t give up if you love fashion.

FSD: What advice would you give to students?

JC: My advice would be keep working hard: No pain, no gain. If you don’t understand, always ask. Someday you will be grateful for what you’ve learned from the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University

Over the past 3 years I have noticed the growing trend in online zines being created by and for marginalized folks. Zines like The Coalition Mag and Shade Zine that aim to share and celebrate women/folx of color, are some of the many zines out there making space for people who normally would not receive any kind of acknowledgement. Taking part in this movement, La Liga Zine is an online platform created to showcase all latinx people and how they explore their diverse identities through different channels of self-expression. I was able to talk to Mari, who is part of the Editorial Board on La Liga to get her views on the zine, creators of color, and latinidad.

Mocosas: Please introduce yourself and give us a bit of your background.

Mari: I’m a 21 year old senior in college. I was born and raised in Peru but came to this country a bit over 6 years ago.

Mocosas: How was the idea of La Liga Zine conceptualized?

Mari: Initially it started as a random idea I posted on Tumblr about creating a street style blog showcasing latinxs. But now the project has sort of taken a life of its own and we’ve expanded the concept to include all types of self expression.

Mocosas: Was there a particular reason La Liga Zine was chosen to be an online zine as opposed to a print one?

Mari: The option of making a printed magazine did cross our minds at first but it is a financial risk we are not able to take at the moment. Also, the advantage of having an online zine is that it allows you to share a wider range of media. Having said that, one of our goals for the future is to have a printed version compiling our interviews, photographic series and written pieces.

Mocosas: Overall what do you hope to achieve with La Liga Zine?

Mari: To provide a safe space for latinxs to share their creative work and experiences so that they can garner the recognition they deserve. I wish for La Liga to become a place of shared knowledge and something that inspires people, including myself, to act beyond the stage of raising one’s awareness about different issues.

Mocosas: When you look for subjects or individuals to feature what are some things you look for?

Mari: This might sound vague and broad but my criteria so far has been looking for people that have something to bring to the discussion table and are willing to share their own ideas about issues they are passionate about.

Mocosas: How do you define your latinidad?

Mari: I define my latinidad as an intrinsic part of my being but at the same time as something that does not define me as a person. Everything we do is informed by our personal experiences so everything I do will have that mark of peruvianness to it but there’s more to me than just that. My being and my work are mine and not an exposition of my culture.

Mocosas: Do you think that currently there is more space for latinx creators, and to be more specific latinas/latinx of color creators, in the art and design world?

Mari: I’m not really well versed in the world of arts as a sociology student so I’m just going to speak based on other people’s experiences. A lot of the artists of color whom I’ve talked to tell me that, as one would expect, it’s hard navigating the art world as a non cis hetero white person not only because it’s exclusivist but also because the type of art these white artistic circles are making does not resonate with them at all. Thankfully, I also do get the feeling that there are a lot of latinx and chicanx art collectives springing up, which I think is great.

Mocosas: As diverse as latinx are, do you feel like there is one thing that diasporic latinx share in their work?

Mari: On a surface level of course there are lots of cultural overlaps that unify us as a community due to our shared colonial past (and present in some cases). I think that there is also a kind of trauma that seeps out of diasporic latinxs’ work, a melancholy imbued within their creation that is born from the mere fact of existing under an oppressive anglo white supremacist society. But, personally, I prefer to focus more on highlighting differences. This same oppressive society is the one always trying to standardize us in order to make us easier to process for the white audience. It even created this label that ties us all under an ethnic category despite us coming from vastly different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. And I don’t do it to prove our “diversity” to a white anglo audience, I just think it is important to remind this to ourselves, to prevent us from believing this myth of “sameness” imposed upon us that permeates everything we breath. Of course it is fun and good for everyone to bond over our similarities but it is also important for people to recognize our differences in terms of class, race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality, etc, in order to understand why issues such as working class oppression, colorism, anti-blackness, misogyny, transphobia, anti-queer sentiments, and other acts of violence, are such vital problems that we have to battle against. Our oppressions are not all the same. To denote our differences first and foremost is an honest way to provide a real foundation upon which we can build true solidarity within our community and beyond it.

Mocosas: Who are the latinx or W.O.C. artists who are inspiring you at the moment?

Mari: One that comes to mind is Cecile Emeke. I’ve been particularly struck by her online documentary series ‘strolling’ because that is the type of work I would love to do in the future. I also love the visual work of Itzel Alejandra Martinez, who’s part of Colectiva Cosmica. Fabiola Ching, writer and editor of the Coalition Zine, is a constant source of inspiration for me because of everything she has achieved at such a young age.

Mocosas: Where do you see La Liga Zine in a year?

Mari: Alive and thriving! A lot of things can happen in a year but my wish is for the team that makes up La Liga right now to continue channeling their energy into this project.

If you are interested in learning more about La Liga Zine make sure to follow them here on Tumblr and check out their latest story.

Written by, Mocosas