3 answers
Michelle
Student
Toms River, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
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1. When did you get the idea for designing? 2. Who inspired you to construct and continue your journey on this brand? 3. Do you have any regrets while working in the fashion industry? 4. What challenges did you face while working on your business? 5. What is something you would tell your younger self knowing what you know now?
I am sorry if the questions look jumbled together
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3 answers
Irene Smolyanskaya
Designer Creative Draper Educator
11
Answers
Boulder, Colorado
Updated
Irene’s Answer
Hi Michelle!
I’ll try to answer to the best of my abilities, as some of your questions touch some issues on a deep philosophical level.
1. I started designing as a very small kid while playing with dolls and trying to dress them and style their hair in an unusual way. My mom was sometimes unhappy because often the dolls ended up half dressed and their original hair cut off and a total mess. But I kept doing it, and ever since can’t imagine a life without some sort of creative flow.
2. My most important inspiration came from my first sewing teacher. She told me that I had a tremendous talent and that it was my responsibility to develop it. I tried to do just that in my career
3. I can’t point out any regrets. I’ve been lucky I guess to fund employment with some truly inspiring labels, and was well respected by my peers and also well compensated
4. My biggest challenge is always communication. I don’t have any issues with creativity or problem solving but it takes me a lot of effort to bring my ideas across, to get other people to get on the same page. Innovation is hard to bring to life, it takes a lot of discipline.
5. I would tell my younger self that everything I desire for is within reach, just takes work and dedication.
I’ll try to answer to the best of my abilities, as some of your questions touch some issues on a deep philosophical level.
1. I started designing as a very small kid while playing with dolls and trying to dress them and style their hair in an unusual way. My mom was sometimes unhappy because often the dolls ended up half dressed and their original hair cut off and a total mess. But I kept doing it, and ever since can’t imagine a life without some sort of creative flow.
2. My most important inspiration came from my first sewing teacher. She told me that I had a tremendous talent and that it was my responsibility to develop it. I tried to do just that in my career
3. I can’t point out any regrets. I’ve been lucky I guess to fund employment with some truly inspiring labels, and was well respected by my peers and also well compensated
4. My biggest challenge is always communication. I don’t have any issues with creativity or problem solving but it takes me a lot of effort to bring my ideas across, to get other people to get on the same page. Innovation is hard to bring to life, it takes a lot of discipline.
5. I would tell my younger self that everything I desire for is within reach, just takes work and dedication.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Michelle, I appreciate your curiosity and the effort you've taken to ask these questions. While I'm not directly involved in the fashion sector, I've had the privilege of working with renowned brands such as CoCo Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. Here are my responses to your queries, aiming to offer guidance and assistance.
1. My journey into design was a gradual process, shaped by personal interests, experiences, and observations. My early fascination with fashion, art, and creativity eventually transformed into a passion for expressing myself through clothing design. Exposure to various cultures, art forms, and fashion trends further ignited my enthusiasm and inspired unique design ideas. As I developed my skills and explored the fashion industry's different facets, the concept of designing solidified, leading me to pursue formal education and training in fashion design.
2. Numerous individuals have fueled my journey in the fashion industry. Notably, innovative designers who constantly push creativity and craftsmanship boundaries have inspired me to aim for excellence in my work. Moreover, supportive mentors, colleagues, and friends have been instrumental in encouraging me to follow my passion and overcome the challenges of brand building. Their guidance, encouragement, and shared experiences have offered invaluable insights and motivation, helping me remain focused and resilient amid obstacles.
3. Like any career, the fashion industry has moments of introspection and growth. I view regrets as learning and improvement opportunities. One possible regret is not taking more risks or seizing certain opportunities earlier in my career. Fear of failure or reluctance to step out of my comfort zone might have limited me from fully exploring my potential or undertaking ambitious projects. However, these experiences have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the significance of embracing uncertainty for growth and innovation.
4. Establishing a business in the fashion industry comes with a unique set of challenges, from creative to logistical and financial issues. Some hurdles I've encountered include carving out a distinct brand identity in a saturated market, managing production and supply chain logistics efficiently, and keeping up with changing consumer preferences and trends. Additionally, securing funding, assembling a reliable team, and balancing creative vision with commercial viability have been ongoing challenges. However, each challenge has offered opportunities for problem-solving, innovation, and growth, ultimately strengthening my business.
5. If I could share wisdom with my younger self, it would be to view failure as a necessary and valuable part of the journey. Mistakes and setbacks are unavoidable, but they provide invaluable lessons and growth opportunities. Rather than fearing failure or chasing perfection, I would advise my younger self to tackle challenges with curiosity, resilience, and a readiness to learn from each experience. I would also stress the importance of staying true to my vision, values, and creative instincts, even when faced with doubt or criticism. Lastly, I would remind myself to prioritize balance, well-being, and fulfillment in both professional and personal life, recognizing that true success is not only about achievements but also about happiness and fulfillment along the journey.
1. My journey into design was a gradual process, shaped by personal interests, experiences, and observations. My early fascination with fashion, art, and creativity eventually transformed into a passion for expressing myself through clothing design. Exposure to various cultures, art forms, and fashion trends further ignited my enthusiasm and inspired unique design ideas. As I developed my skills and explored the fashion industry's different facets, the concept of designing solidified, leading me to pursue formal education and training in fashion design.
2. Numerous individuals have fueled my journey in the fashion industry. Notably, innovative designers who constantly push creativity and craftsmanship boundaries have inspired me to aim for excellence in my work. Moreover, supportive mentors, colleagues, and friends have been instrumental in encouraging me to follow my passion and overcome the challenges of brand building. Their guidance, encouragement, and shared experiences have offered invaluable insights and motivation, helping me remain focused and resilient amid obstacles.
3. Like any career, the fashion industry has moments of introspection and growth. I view regrets as learning and improvement opportunities. One possible regret is not taking more risks or seizing certain opportunities earlier in my career. Fear of failure or reluctance to step out of my comfort zone might have limited me from fully exploring my potential or undertaking ambitious projects. However, these experiences have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the significance of embracing uncertainty for growth and innovation.
4. Establishing a business in the fashion industry comes with a unique set of challenges, from creative to logistical and financial issues. Some hurdles I've encountered include carving out a distinct brand identity in a saturated market, managing production and supply chain logistics efficiently, and keeping up with changing consumer preferences and trends. Additionally, securing funding, assembling a reliable team, and balancing creative vision with commercial viability have been ongoing challenges. However, each challenge has offered opportunities for problem-solving, innovation, and growth, ultimately strengthening my business.
5. If I could share wisdom with my younger self, it would be to view failure as a necessary and valuable part of the journey. Mistakes and setbacks are unavoidable, but they provide invaluable lessons and growth opportunities. Rather than fearing failure or chasing perfection, I would advise my younger self to tackle challenges with curiosity, resilience, and a readiness to learn from each experience. I would also stress the importance of staying true to my vision, values, and creative instincts, even when faced with doubt or criticism. Lastly, I would remind myself to prioritize balance, well-being, and fulfillment in both professional and personal life, recognizing that true success is not only about achievements but also about happiness and fulfillment along the journey.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Michelle
Hiari Strong
Designer/Creative
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Hiari’s Answer
Hi Michelle!
When did you get the idea for designing? The idea of designing had been a part of me for many years, I have always had a creative, artsy spirit. It has always been a passion that drives me.
2. Who inspired you to construct and continue your journey on this brand? My grandmother was my inspiration to create and strive as designer. She had an impeccable style that planted the seed, and fed my what has become the love of my life.
3. Do you have any regrets while working in the fashion industry? I have no regrets. Every step in the journey has been a necessary lesson.
4. What challenges did you face while working on your business? As i am still in the beginning stages of my fashion career I'm certain that the challenges will come. The challenges that I can share would be on my own self, not being prepared for the opportunities that were presented to me. Therefore I would highly suggest that being proactive in your training & development so that you will be prepared when opportunity comes.
5. What is something you would tell your younger self knowing what you know now? I would tell my younger self to trust in yourself, be patient, and take risks.
I hope this helps! Hiari🤎
When did you get the idea for designing? The idea of designing had been a part of me for many years, I have always had a creative, artsy spirit. It has always been a passion that drives me.
2. Who inspired you to construct and continue your journey on this brand? My grandmother was my inspiration to create and strive as designer. She had an impeccable style that planted the seed, and fed my what has become the love of my life.
3. Do you have any regrets while working in the fashion industry? I have no regrets. Every step in the journey has been a necessary lesson.
4. What challenges did you face while working on your business? As i am still in the beginning stages of my fashion career I'm certain that the challenges will come. The challenges that I can share would be on my own self, not being prepared for the opportunities that were presented to me. Therefore I would highly suggest that being proactive in your training & development so that you will be prepared when opportunity comes.
5. What is something you would tell your younger self knowing what you know now? I would tell my younger self to trust in yourself, be patient, and take risks.
I hope this helps! Hiari🤎