When it comes to fashion, designers have a specific vision and theme for how the collection will look. Whether the inspiration is developed from the past or the environment we live in, it is up to the designer to convey his or her message via the material. Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with an out of this world designer who is not only extremely talented, but has the potential to be known as one of the greatest designers who ever lived. Lets take a closer look at SSIK Designs as we travel into a fashion realm that is creative, grungy and most essentially sick!
JT: Do you feel your upbringing affected your choice of employment?
SSIK: Well I grew up in the Poconos up in Pennsylvania and I was a typical “Daddy’s Girl”. Not only was my father the principal of my school, I took advantage of that and became a social butterfly. Everyone knew who I was and I was super active in school. Having that structured background has really shaped me into who I am as a person and most importantly a designer.
JT: Were your parents supportive of your career choice?
SSIK: Yes they were extremely supportive of my career. When I graduated school, I made the choice to move to NYC and attend FIT. My parents always said “Make sure you have a back up plan just in case this does not work out”. I was determined to make it work and I am glad I did. I had to go through some rough patches in life but that is something we have to face when pursuing your dream.
JT: If you had the chance to pick another career, what would it be and why?
SSIK: If I had to pick another career, it would most definitely be something in the art field. I love art and fashion and my clothes are a clear depiction of my brand and who I am as a designer.
JT: Why is branding so important?
SSIK: Branding is important because it is who you are as a person/designer. I have worked for many designers after graduating FIT and it was an amazing experience. I had to learn that if you want to design things the way you like without everyone modifying your creation, design your own destiny! I was tired of creating pieces and by the time it got to my director and their boss my work was something totally different! Branding is what makes you stand out and above the rest.
JT: How important is giving back to the community?
SSIK: It is very important for me to talk to up and coming fashion students because I was once there. I always go back to FIT and encourage students that they can do anything they put their minds too. I am glad that I have a great relationship with the school and I go back often to speak to the designers.
JT: I notice in your collection you are not afraid to take risk. What are some of your favorite pieces?
SSIK: I love the liquid silicon that I created into a mold and wore it at a fashion event. I received so many compliments and it covered my neck and breasts. It was like a liquid drape!
JT: You are showing your new work in NYFW. Are you excited?
SSIK: Yes, I have shown my collection before in NYFW but this year it was a collaboration with Richie Rich RTW Fall 2017. It was really nice how everything turned out.
JT: What is your definition of True Urban Culture?
SSIK: True Urban Culture is about staying true to who you are and your craft. Its all about networking and helping others in the art industry too. We can not grow as a people by being selfish. It does not matter what type of art you are involved in. It is all about being true to your own art and nature.
No matter what you decide to do as a career, make sure it is something you love and can make an impact with in society. Being true to who you are is the perfect recipe for success.
95sEQZ Whispering Misty So sorry you all skip the workshop!
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