In 2012, after a 5-year break from college, I decided to go back to school and study at the Academy of Arts University majoring in Fashion Design. Its online program is challenging, practical, and inspiring. I face a steep learning curve and hard work—a curriculum that challenges my problem-solving and creative nature with vigorous regularity; it is a great opportunity for me.
I am scheduled to present to a committee of teachers to show my progress and to get approval for my thesis project. In preparation for this end-of-June review, I reviewed all of my work to date. As my fashion point of view evolves, I find great joy in researching the different inspiration that goes into each collection.
Here are three examples of collections I completed in the last four semesters.
A trip to Kenya, in particular to a local elementary school, inspired a collection that focused on a limited color scheme (since the uniforms worn by the children are primarily blue/grey/white). I reviewed what a typical uniform is composed of what its elements are (collar shirt, jacket, pants, skirt). Having to consider my target customer, I arrived at a collection of minimalist 'modern' uniforms for a professional woman in her late 20s to early 30s.
I am scheduled to present to a committee of teachers to show my progress and to get approval for my thesis project. In preparation for this end-of-June review, I reviewed all of my work to date. As my fashion point of view evolves, I find great joy in researching the different inspiration that goes into each collection.
Here are three examples of collections I completed in the last four semesters.
A trip to Kenya, in particular to a local elementary school, inspired a collection that focused on a limited color scheme (since the uniforms worn by the children are primarily blue/grey/white). I reviewed what a typical uniform is composed of what its elements are (collar shirt, jacket, pants, skirt). Having to consider my target customer, I arrived at a collection of minimalist 'modern' uniforms for a professional woman in her late 20s to early 30s.
While travel is one of my favorite inspirations, for the next collection I researched paintings by Jan Vermeer. In particular, I focused on how he portrays 17th century women in their daily lives. The intricate dresses, oversized sleeves, and layered skirts were tons of fun to review! Again, I took the inspiration into the 21th century by transforming it into a modern collection - a collection that could find its place in my closet.
Finally, looking into another type of uniform, I designed a collection based on women in aviation. Starting with Amelia Earhart's outfits and current pilots, I studied bomber jackets, pants cut to allow for free movement, and garments with pockets.
Fashion design is involves extensive research and I realize that my understanding of inspiration is essential to creating innovative and intriguing garments. A variety of interests feeds into design and I am excited about the new topics and inspirations for my work.
Fashion design is involves extensive research and I realize that my understanding of inspiration is essential to creating innovative and intriguing garments. A variety of interests feeds into design and I am excited about the new topics and inspirations for my work.
