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Style Scoop Interview: Jana Garvin

Store windows and interior displays play a huge role in the shopping experience and FIDM alumna Jana Garvin keeps things exciting as the Display Artist for Forever 21 in New York City! We caught up with Jana to talk about the industry, her creative process, and where she's headed. 

Grad year: 2008

Major: Visual Communications

Campus: Los Angeles

How did you get your big break into the industry?
I moved to New York City in the fall of 2008, to pursue a career in publishing. I found out quickly that editorial was extremely political and had limited creativity so I began my own business called Curb Appeal where I did window displays for small boutiques. I found that through that medium I could express the creativity that I had initially wanted to in the world of publishing. Then through my work at Curb Appeal I was referred to Forever 21 to be their full time NYC Display Artist.

What do you love about your current job?
I love the creative freedom that I have with my job. I thrive on working with the current trends and creating a display that makes the clothing have an impact on the customer.  

What have been some of your favorite displays and windows so far?
I just started this fall and immediately began working on the holiday installation that is just being installed now. I’m really looking forward to the windows for Resort 2010.

How do the displays actually come about?
Currently, I work off the theme that the visual design team in Los Angeles decides on. It is my job to take that theme and design the windows for NYC. I will use some of the props that they make and I will create a lot of other ones specifically for the NYC stores.

What is your creative process?
I'm looking for inspiration and doing research on what the theme really means. I will go to the library, read magazines, look on the internet at sites like style.com to see the latest trends, and even walk around the city to gather inspiration. Then I draw up my ideas, travel to Los Angeles to work with the production team who actually make the props/set, and then when it arrives in NYC I work with builders to install it, tweaking it here and there along the way and always overcoming obstacles.

What is a typical day like?
Most days I start work in the stores at 7 AM because I need to get as much done before they open. When the stores get busy I do research, work on my designs, and buy supplies throughout the afternoon. Every few weeks I travel to Los Angeles to work in the corporate office and in the warehouse to produce all of my displays. Sometimes I work overnights because that allows me at least 12 hours of an empty store so that I can do my larger installations.

What do you think it takes to be successful?
I have been told that it is my enthusiasm that has taken me to the level that I am at today. I LOVE what I do and I think that if your passionate about something you automatically work very hard at it and are then you are bound to succeed.

How did you find out about FIDM?
I went to USC for my undergraduate degree and they are in the same neck of the woods, so it was word of mouth. I had always wanted to get my masters or something comparable and a Professional Designation in Visual Communications seemed right for me. Going to FIDM was the best thing I ever did - it gave my the confidence and skills to succeed.

What did you love about your program?
I loved the teachers and the people I met throughout my program. I took classes that made me learn a lot about myself and what I was good at and what I was not. It really broadened my horizons and made way for many opportunities.

What are your future design goals?
There is a blog called anothernormal.com in which a photographer goes around professionally photographing all of the best windows in NYC. My goal is to create a window design for the Forever 21 windows that will get recognized on his blog! I idolize designers like Linda Fargo at Bergdorfs and Simon Doonan at Barneys for their unique and amazing displays and I strive to create windows of that echelon yet be defined by my own unique style.

Style Scoop Interview: Francesca Keesee

From interning at Tarina Tarantino to working on her own line, Sweet Nirvana Jewelry, FIDM Alumna Francesca Keesee has been busy...being fabulous!

Name: Francesca Keesee

Grad Year: 2009

Majors: Graphic Design and Jewelry Design

Campus: Los Angeles

What was the point at which you knew you wanted to be a jewelry designer?

I've been fascinated with jewelry since I was a little girl. The desire to create jewelry just came naturally to me and as I grew older my interest became more sophisticated.

How did you find out about FIDM and what went into your decision to go there?

After doing my research on what school would help me achieve my goals as an artist and designer, FIDM was an obvious choice.

What was the best lesson you learned at FIDM?

That is a tough one because I learned so many important lessons! The most essential lessons I Iearned were in my metalsmithing course. It is highly unlikely I would be where I am without that year and a half of jewelry studio classes!

What was your favorite thing about going to FIDM?

My favorite and most memorable thing about FIDM was working in the jewelry studio. A bond was created between our small jewelry group and our teachers, John and Sue. We spent hours upon hours in that studio, working together, learning, and interacting. It is something I will always hold dear.

Tell us a little about how you started your own line (see photos below).

After years of collecting materials and drawing designs I made the leap to have an online shop. It was a fun beginning and I had many customers but it wasn't until I began taking studio classes in metalsmithing and wax casting, that countless designs in my notebooks started coming to life. I would sit in the studio for 6 to 9 hours and then come home and sit in my tiny studio for another block of hours. I was so excited and and engrossed from the start. I've been designing in my head for over 10 years and I was finally taught the trade to create these pieces with my hands. My designs have matured and have really honed in on my personal aesthetic. These days my line, Sweet Nirvana Jewelry, focuses on lotus flowers, sterling silver mood rings, birds of a feather, and one-of-a-kinds featuring super vintage molded glass.

What inspires you when you are working on your designs?

I am inspired by nature. I am also highly inspired by the 1920s, '60s, and '70s.

You won the Warner Bros' 70th Anniversary of The Wizard of Oz Jewelry Design Contest. Describe your design.

My design was inspired by the unforgettable poppy scene. The ruby red poppies looked amazing against the vibrant blue sky and I wanted to capture that imagery with my design. The necklace consists of a large bib with varying poppy flowers, asymmetrical sky blue enamel chain, and a Dorothy-inspired gingham bow clasp. The poppy flowers have a gradient of ruby red to lemon yellow and have faceted iridescent stones in the centers.

How did you find out you were the winner?

After a studio class, we were told to go to the FIDM Museum to learn who the winner was. Warner Bros' representatives were there with roses and they made the announcement that I won the grand prize!

Describe how you felt when you won. 

I was completely in shock when I heard my name called! Shock gave way to excitement and awe but the shock was there for hours. There are so many talented jewelry designers in the major; it was highly competitive! I immediately went out that day and found a dress to wear to the upcoming FIDM Oz Gala.

Here is Francesca with Tarina Tarantino at the opening night gala of the "Ruby Slipper Collection" exhibition at FIDM.

What was the prize?

A trip for two to New York to attend the Warner Bros' Emerald Gala!

Tell us a little about your internship at Tarina Tarantino.

After I won the contest I called in and requested an interview. I started the first week of July and I just completed the internship. I was fortunate enough to make a lot of jewelry while I was there. They told me I was the first intern to be allowed to work with the crystals! In the four months I interned, I created a lot of showroom samples, web exclusives, and special jewelry designs.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about going to school at FIDM to study jewelry design?

You must love jewelry to make a life and career out of it. If you are fascinated with jewelry and you want to learn everything about it I highly recommend FIDM as the place to achieve this. A major tip: I recommend exploring your design aesthetic and thinking about a possible self-brand of jewelry. This will come in the program but it is best if you are prepared for it! From day one, you need to be thinking about your grad collection, what your line will be called, how your branding will appear, and what inspires and drives you.

What is the next big trend in jewelry?

A couple of big jewelry trends for fall and winter this year are large cuff bracelets and statement necklaces. I naturally gravitate towards large pieces.

What is your biggest dream right now?

That one day my jewelry line will become a recognizable brand, and behind that brand will be a thriving design studio with a team of artists and metalsmiths.

--Gigi Hooghkirk

Interview with FIDM Fashion Design Student Jordan Crosby

Name:  Jordan Crosby

Age: 24

Hometown: Fort Dodge, Iowa

Previous college experience: Undergrad in Business Management, and a Certificate in Entrepreneurship – University of Iowa.

FIDM Grad Date, Major, and Campus:  If all goes according to plan, Winter 2010 (end of fall term 2010).  I am a FIDM Fashion Design major.  Los Angeles campus.

Tell us a little about yourself: Midwest born and raised, lived by a field but not on a farm. I’ve taken the full advantage of being in my youth and what my 'ma' refers to as “commitment issues," is rather my ambition to not settle too long.  Due to this I’ve traveled to four continents, and lived in five amazing areas in the last four years.  Reading biographies and bibliographies is a hobby, seeing prolific identities from such a candid angle is full of lessons to be learned.  I find concerts to be one of my top inspirational sources, accomplished by watching a single band control an entire crowd.  I don’t drink soda, but if I do I’ll submit to a root beer.  Light gray is my favorite color.

What is one of your proudest accomplishments?  I’ve had feats here and there in academics and athletics, but realistically I’d have to say my proudest accomplishment to date would still be making my parents proud.  The older I become, the more that idea weighs on me, and I never want to feel negligent to everything the two of them have blessed me with. 

Tom Ford

Favorite Designer: Tom Ford.  You can never confuse his collections with other designers.  The fabrics and patterns that he integrates in his clothing always have a bold uniqueness about them.  It’s impossible for me to go by a Tom Ford optical counter and not bother the store clerk.  In addition, the private blend collection of fragrances is on a whole other level. 

Trend/item you're loving right now:  Skinny jeans, or fitted jeans for that matter.  I’ve always found baggy fitted jeans to look like sh*t. 

James Dean 

Pharrell Williams

Who is your style icon and why?  It’s a combination of James Dean meets Pharrell Williams.  Mr. Dean was completely against the grain and edgy for his era.  He kept his look simple, but there was a raw attitude that it evoked.  He was in his prime at the time of his death, the age of 24.  I say Pharrell due to the fact that he gets outside of the box.  His look, upon further inspection, is intricately put together with confidence.  Whether it’s a concert or a red carpet appearance, his approach is fluid and (referencing his lyrics) has “spaz” like tendencies. 

What is your dream fashion purchase?  Denim has always been a staple for me, and I’d have to say an original pair of Levi’s circa late 1800’s.  More from a collector’s standpoint than any other, I’d have those bad boys mounted above my fireplace in my log cabin in Montana (all generalizations of course). 

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? My shoes.  I honestly can’t get rid of a single pair.  I made the move to L.A. about a month and a half ago and brought every pair with me. 

James Bond/Quantum of Solace

If you could own the wardrobe of any film or TV character (past or present) whose would it be?  Easy answer, though it’s kind of a cheat. James Bond, definitely.  You would get the best of both the past, present, and the future.  Always dapper no matter the level of danger, and the wardrobe has always kept the perfect balance of tradition and modern influences.  

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you?    I weighed many schools in my decision, and took into account the staff that FIDM has acquired, the business-minded approach of the curriculum, and the growth of FIDM over the past quantity years.  It’s general knowledge that if a college keeps developing and growing, they are definitely doing something right.  I ultimately think too, that it was the lure of Southern California and the weather as well.  I’ve lived in London where there was nothing but cloudy days, cold temperatures, and precipitation (Seattle natives can relate).  Nobody’s happy when you’re out on the streets, and having to always carry an umbrella meant you were always down a free hand. 

How did you choose your major?  My initial year of college I was enrolled in the architecture program at Georgia Tech.  They broke us down to the bare materials and taught us from the ground up.  It was basically a make or break scenario, and with enough perseverance my projects became what I’d refer to as ‘mini-masterpieces’.  All of that effort made design evermore fascinating to me!  I’ve always had an attraction to the creativity and freedom that design allows.  I did ultimately switch majors, and in time the realization struck me that my true passion was in clothing.  I saw fashion design as the only choice I had. 
 
What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I’ve always been told not to set expectations too high, for fear that you won’t meet them.  However, with FIDM I have set my expectations on a grand scale.  I intend to walk with a professional level knowledge on garment construction.  I intend to connect and meet the likes of individuals all over the fashion industry and my school peers.  Lastly, I intend to walk away from FIDM fully confident and believing in my abilities as a designer.  I totally believe that can be achieved, but I have to know that the one roadblock is myself. 

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM?  When it’s all said and done, my ultimate ambition is to eventually be founder and designer of my own menswear collection.  Not just any menswear label, but a highly successful and meaningful design house that comes complete with a mission statement and purpose.  Initially after FIDM though, I am looking to work my way from the ground up with an established designer, and learn from the very best. 

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? You all have an ideal FIDM experience that you envision all the time.  This school is all about teaching students how to make ideas into reality, start pursuing that theme from day one. 

Interview: 2nd Quarter Fashion Design Student Sandy Gonzalez

Sandy Gonzalez

Name: Sandy Gonzalez

Age: 18

Hometown: Dinuba, California

URL: http://www.abuelinthegoldenage.com or http://www.myspace.com/abuelinthegoldenage

FIDM Grad Year, Major, and Campus: 2011, Fashion Design, Los Angeles

Tell us a little about yourself:
I grew up in the very small town of Dinuba, California where agriculture was about the only business to get into. I've wanted to be involved with fashion ever since I heard that my grandma never wore anything twice. I adored spending the night at her house and my aunt's, just so that I could watch them make their larger than life quilts. People have always thought of me as the go-to-girl for finishing art homework and hemming jeans. Living in Dinuba made life very simple, but hard to breakout into a career such as fashion, so at 14 I started to make custom totes and I sold them to the girls at my high school for $5. It first started when I put together a screening of the film Invisible Children to which 7 people showed up, haha. I wanted to raise money for the organization so I started to sell them there. After that, I learned how to build websites from online tutorials and gained knowledge on how to start a business. Soon after, www.abuelinthegoldenage.com was created and it's been quite a journey from there now leading to my second quarter here at FIDM Los Angeles.

Sites you must visit daily:  I am always on the internet, of course there is the usual social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Modelmayhem.com, Tumblr, and Myspace. Other then those, I visit Urbanoutfitters.com and Space15twenty.com religiously as well as fashion blogs like theuglyearring.com, www.dirtyflaws.com, thisolddress.blogspot.com, and daydreamlily.com. And as much as I hate to admit it, I update perezhilton.com every 2 seconds; it's my guilty pleasure.

Golden Shield Dress from Sandy's Abuel in the Golden Age Collection

What is an accomplishment you are most proud of:  One of my proudest moments is when I sold my first item on my site abuelinthegoldenage.com. From that point on, it didn't matter to me if I sold another thing in my life, just that I knew there was one person out there who thought whatever I had to offer was worth the purchase. But I knew if there was one, there were bound to be more.

What are your short term career goals?  Some short term career goals are to build on what I have so far and get a few more pieces in my online store. Also, to get an internship or job with another designer to get a feel for things other then what I have learned on my own.

Lost Boys

What inspires you? There are a number of things that inspire me, too many to count even. I have very eclectic taste when it comes to this stuff. It is no secret from looking at my online store that I am a big fan of the circus, though I have never been to one. I even promised myself if my career in fashion didn't workout, I would join the circus. But anything from the smell of fallen leaves on an afternoon walk to the hairstyles shown in the most recent Tim Burton film. It is forever changing, but I am inspired by old time movies like Sunset Boulevard, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Death of a Salesman, and even ones like The Lost Boys; old photos of my mom and dad, especially ones of my dad while he was in the Vietnam War; antique stores; music, yes music especially, actually very few know this, but the whole story behind my line was inspired by Panic at the Disco's album Pretty Odd. Most recently though, I've been inspired to create children's clothing based on the book and movie, Where the Wild Things Are. My niece and nephew Ava and Carter were my tests for this line, I knew that if they approved, then that's all that mattered.

Abuel in the Golden Age Broken Heart Tank

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? From the moment I stepped onto this campus with my mom and sister, I was overwhelmed. I had only read about this school online and then to suddenly be standing on the second floor waiting to see my admissions advisor Laura Gorham--it was the most surreal feeling in the world. But I think the moment I knew was after the tour of the school and meeting had ended and we were in our hotel room for the night... I just remember sitting on the hotel bed with my sister and thinking, "Man, they are all rooting for me. FIDM has to be the right choice." And thank goodness it has been so far or I wouldn't be having such an amazing time here in Los Angeles.

How and why did you choose your major? I knew that I wanted to major in Fashion Design for a while, and when the different majors that fit my criteria were presented to me, Fashion Design still was the one that I was most sure about. I wanted to become better at design before I ventured off into anything else.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I hope and expect to gain insight on the fashion industry from the ins and outs. Already from attending FIDM for one quarter, I can honestly say I've learned so much and I can only imagine how much more knowledge I will have by the time graduation comes around.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? My ultimate career goal is to open up an actual store where customers can come and experience Abuel in the Golden Age as it's meant to be experienced. Hopefully one store will lead to more but right now, I am content with it only being online.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? I would have to say to just go for it, give all you've got, and don't hold your true self back, because that is what is going to make you memorable.

Interview with FIDM Merch Prod Dev Student Mei-Li Thomas

Name: Mei-Li Thomas
Age: 26
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Major: Merchandise Product Development
Grad Year/Campus: 2009/LA

Do you have a style icon? If so, who is it? You know I don't have a consistent one. Right now I would have to say that it is Amber Rose (Kanye West's current girlfriend) Regardless of her personal life choices her fashion choices are bold, a great mix of classic and comfort items, and she is never over accessorized. Her wardrobe choices at last season's Paris Fashion Week were great examples of this.

 

Kanye and Amber Rose

Who/what inspires you the most and why? Traditional garments from other cultures inspire me. I'm a travel junkie and I love to hop on a plane and travel to a new country whenever I can. On a recent trip to Thailand I got a chance to watch the Flower Festival Parade which takes place annually the first week of February in Chiang Mai. What a color-filled country! The different tribes of Northern Thailand created intricate floats of thousands of flowers and they dress in traditional robe and dance and play instruments down the street. It was almost four hours long and I took a ridiculous amount of pictures because of the meticulous detail they put into all they do with embroidery and headdress. I was in awe.

Flower Festival Parade

What is your favorite L.A. spot? The FIDM Library. I know it's a corny answer but as a person who is learning constantly about this industry and how to survive in it, all the resources I need are right at my finger tips. I hear my boss talk everyday about how she wishes she has access to the trend reports that I can see on a daily basis for free. It is the #1 thing I will truly miss about graduating, though we can still use the sourcing books. :-)

The Draping Lab in the FIDM Library

Are you working/interning in addition to writing your blog, if so, for what company and what is your position? Yes I intern for a design house Thrive where I am at the right hand of the head of Product Development. Talk about seeing your major in action! I really wish I had interned with them a lot earlier in my FIDM career. I learn so much about real-world timing in the area of product development there; it's like taking 4 classes at once! They allow me to be as hands on as possible and are there to help me build the skills that FIDM has taught me.

What is your mission for your blog? No Fear, Just DIVA is to show that there is no one right way to have a career in the fashion industry. There's where we are right before we start our journey (Point A) and where we want to end up in our careers, our destination (Point B), but how we all get there is up to the individual (Fashion Freeway - what's getting you from A to B). Right now it's mostly my story and what I'm going through but the goal is to have more interviews from others that have made their way in the industry.

What accomplishments in life, school, etc. are you most proud of? Illustrator! LOL honestly I couldn't draw a lick freehand or otherwise and I have to first give credit to my teacher C. Osuna. Without the confidence to do it freehand and her patience to get me through that I would have never braved subsequent classes. The fact that even I have seen such an improvement in my drawing is a big deal to me and I'm proud of that. So many times at FIDM we spend so much time comparing ourselves to each other when we should really compare our current selves to our first selves and appreciate the growth. It's not about reaching another's level but your own.

How/why did you choose FIDM? What do you expect to gain from your FIDM education? Why? Hmmm I was speaking about this with my mother last week. She says that the man who made my prom dress suggested it, but I didn't think to look into it officially until 2004. I remember none of this, but I knew that I wanted formal training on fashion and textiles but did not want to be a designer. After researching FIDM's Professional Designation options for particular majors, I decided that of the other schools this type of program was best to compliment my degree. Overall I expected to gain a stronger network in the industry, which I have! However my friends back home will tell you I was VERY confident in the fact that since I would not be a Fashion Design major I would not have to sew... couldn't have been more wrong.

Why is your major right for you? Merchandise Product Development is right for me because it is the best complement to my International Business degree. I also think that I couldn't have gone wrong with Apparel Manufacturing Mgmt, actually. But I appreciate the class "Fundamentals of Product Development" giving a shout to S. Spencer who helped me understand what this whole major was really about. In product development we are involved in both the business and the creative. I love that I have the skills to construct but also the degree to lead.

Which FIDM class is your favorite? Principles for Design Development. Two words: ROBIN WAGNER! I remember the first day she walked into class and said "You guys ready to design a clothing line?" I replied with a very loud "NO!" I was so anti "be a fashion designer," but in that class I learned that design is just as much conceptual as it is physical cut and sew, and that I have to use my business smarts in order to create the right product for my target customer. She helped me tap into my creative for this class and that was something I didn't think that I had. This class plus "Fundamentals" helped tie it all together for me. They pushed me to reach for more than what I was capable of especially creatively.

What do you enjoy most about attending FIDM? Experiencing creativity. It doesn't happen as often as I would like but every once in a while and I get to sit back and look at the draping projects in the library and the displays on the 5th floor of the main campus. The displays at the Museum and the wardrobe choices of the students. It's so visual here! When was the last time you sat back and just took in the creativity of it all?

What are your long and short term goals? Long-term, to get my MBA in Strategy and work in Consulting and Brand Management, short-term would be to work on the Asst Designer/Line Developer side to train my eye. A lot like what I'm doing in my internship, but five days a week and getting paid for it.

Any advice for people who might want to attend FIDM? This school is not for the weak at heart. It's long hours, the work is demanding, and totally worth it if this is where you see your career building. There is no one right path to take when obtaining a career in the industry so don't think that you have to come to FIDM knowing exactly what you want to do putting a lot of unnecessary pressure on yourself. A general idea and a good admissions counselor (shout to V Pasquale), will head you in the right direction.

Any final thoughts you want to share? Current students, don't go through your time here in a chiffon fog. Too many times I hear the phrase "I'm so over it" and I think "Then why are you here!" FIDM has some of the best networks, resources, and opportunities to those of us who have little to no experience in the industry. Be proactive in your career. Read the portal, create relationships with your teachers (who do work in the industry, btw!), join clubs. Everything we do here is a step closer to our desired Point B, make it count.

Interview: New FIDM San Francisco Student Kathleen Donohue

Name: Kathleen Donohue

Previous Degrees/Colleges: Bachelor of Arts in Economics from California State University, Chico and a Master of Business Administration from Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Hometown: Berkeley, CA

FIDM Start Date, Major, and Campus: Fall 2009, Merchandise Product Development (Professional Designation), San Francisco campus

Tell us a little about yourself: I've always had a passion for textiles and apparel design and construction, but when I was going from high school to college, I didn't have the confidence to pursue studies in that area. I was good with math and computers, so I got a degree in Economics and went on to be an Information Technology consultant for about ten years. I enjoyed the challenge but I wasn't in love with it. After a while I decided I needed a change of scenery, so I went to Ireland to get my MBA. When I got back, I tried out a few other careers: supply chain management, financial analysis, and finally software product development. None of them really made me excited. I was downsized from my job in January of 2009, so I had an opportunity to really think about what I wanted to do next. Now, I'm doing what I always wanted to do!

What is an accomplishment you are most proud of? Deciding to go to FIDM! My second proudest accomplishment is getting my MBA.

Temperley Ad Campaigns (via Oh Joy!)

Favorite Knitwear Designer or Favorite Designer: My favorite knitwear designer is my friend Marlowe Crawford - she is a knitwear architect! Besides her, I love the edgy feminine English style of Alice Temperley.

Burberry Prorsum and Depression-era chic

Upcoming trend/item you're secretly coveting: The Depression-era chic trend. All those bias-cuts and lace!

Hawes & Curtis bespoke shirts

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? Definitely my shirts from Hawes & Curtis, Jermyn Street, London shirtmakers. I have five of them. My favorite has bright red and pink stripes.

How did you choose FIDM? I found out that a lot of my friends were FIDM Graduates, and I was
looking for a place that would teach me what I needed to have a solid career foundation.

How did you choose your major? I have a lot of experience in business operations. Apparel Product Development is just creative enough to be exciting, but also builds on my existing work experience.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? FIDM is incredibly supportive of its students. I feel like with FIDM's resources, I can do just about anything I want to do.

What is your favorite class so far? Absolutely Apparel Process I. I love the technical aspects of apparel construction.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? My dream career is to be a technical designer, but just about anything in the way of apparel production management sounds like a lot of fun.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Make some long-term goals! FIDM will give you everything you could possibly need to be successful. What you do with all that is entirely up to you.

Anything else you'd like to add? I'm constantly impressed with the focus and professionalism of the students and faculty at FIDM. I'm really proud to be a student!

Style Scoop Interview: Eva Fredrickson

Thanks to costume designers like FIDM alumna Eva Fredrickson, actors and actresses are able to bring their characters to life on the small screen through their wardrobe.

We caught up with the L.A. resident to chat about attending FIDM, costumes, and the process of designing for television!

Name: Eva Fredrickson
Grad Year: 2007
Major: Film & TV Costume Design
Campus: Los Angeles
Job Title: Costumer/Costume Designer

How did you get your big break into the industry?
While I was at FIDM, I was awarded a NBC/Universal internship in the wardrobe department on the soap opera Passions working for Emmy-nominated designer, Diana Eden.

What do you love about your job?
Everything! But mostly it's the storytelling aspect of what we do in wardrobe. So much thought goes into how we dress our actors. We think about who this character is, what they've been through, how they see themselves, etc. There's a surprising amount of psychology involved.

What have been some of your favorite gigs so far?
Working on How I Met Your Mother has been amazing. And I just finished designing a pilot called Party People where I got the chance to dye and construct a lot of the costumes, which I miss from my days working in theater costume shops. 

What is your process as a costume designer?

First, I break down the script. I do whatever research may be necessary - this is especially important for period pieces, which are my favorite. I make a budget. Then I dive into the creative part of designing. I think about how I can use color, shape, texture, and style to tell the story.

How do you get inspired?
I draw inspiration from art, fashion, people, nature, and anything that feels connected to the character and the script. Sometimes I do sketches to show the director, producers, and network. I follow my instincts and I hope that I am on the same page as the aforementioned players. But if changes need be made, I make them. Then comes the acquiring and/or building of the wardrobe. Then fittings with the actors follow and if everything works and everyone is happy, the wardrobe goes off to set.

What is a typical day like? 
Every job is different and every day presents new challenges. One day I'll be researching serial killers for Criminal Minds, which is another one of my favorite gigs, and the next I'm gluing rhinestones on sneakers for the dancers on America's Best Dance Crew.

What do you think it takes to be successful? You have to be hungry. Jobs are not always going to find you so sometimes you need to be proactive about finding them. There's really no such thing as a steady gig in my line of work so you have to have to accept that aspect of the career you have chosen and always have faith that if you work hard and you really want to make it happen for yourself, you can.

How did you find out about FIDM?
I knew that I wanted to go to design school after college so I did some searching online and I found FIDM. As soon as I learned about the Advanced Studies in Film & TV Costume Design program, I knew it was perfect for me.

Why did you choose your major?
I couldn't be more passionate about designing costumes. And I have always known that I belonged in the film and television industry. It was a no brainer.

What did you love about your program?
I loved the access we were given to so many resources in the industry. We were taken on some incredible field trips to television sets, costume houses, and studio lots. We had some of the biggest designers in the business come and speak to our class. Our professors were like bottomless wells of knowledge and experience. And Mary Kay Stolz, the heart and soul of the program, works very hard to give her students every opportunity possible.

Q&A With FIDM Grad Featured in "Whip It!"

FIDM Fashion Design alumna Rachel Piplica has a day job as a production manager at Lucky 13 Apparel, but by night she is a roller derby girl, known as Iron Maiven, and even appeared in Drew Barrymore's hit film Whip It!

How did you get into the roller derby scene? When did you start designing clothing?

I moved to LA in March 2004, to attend FIDM. I moved by myself from Pittsburgh with a goal to start a career in fashion. A month later, I met a roller derby gal who introduced me to the sport. I fell in love with it, attending FIDM as a fashion student by day, skating practices as Iron Maiven by night.

And you have also launched Iron Doll Clothing, which caters to roller derby team right?

Because of my background and schooling in fashion, it was natural for me to sign up on the uniform committee within the league. I actually landed the job at Lucky 13 Apparel because they were sponsoring our uniforms and I was working with the designer to create the uniforms for our teams. I started at Lucky 13 in Novemember of 2005, and have been here ever since. It wasn't until recently when other leagues saw the uniforms I made for our league's team that I decided to launch Iron Doll Clothing and create custom roller derby uniforms. I still work for Lucky 13 and my boss is incredibly supportive of roller derby and has been helping me with Iron Doll Clothing.

How did you first hear about FIDM?

I have been sewing and designing my own clothes my whole life. I knew I wanted to have a career in fashion, I just didn't know how to achieve that. I stayed in Pittsburgh after high school attending the University of Pittsburgh and obtained my Bachelor of Arts Degree. Then I started researching fashion specific schools all over the country. I looked in New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. My best friend agreed to travel to California with me to look at FIDM. The building and the atmosphere was beautiful. I fell in love with it. I also loved that FIDM had a Professional Designation Program specifically for people who already had bachelor degrees. No other fashion specific schools offered that type of program. I was so anxious to get into the industry, it just made sense at the time to take this route.

How did FIDM help prep you for your career?

Everything taught in class was industry specific and to the point. It wasn't until I was thrown into the fire (so to speak) that all my lesson plans from school started to make sense. I was fully prepared and didn't even realize it!  Everything from pattern making, to drawing, to grading, costing, and sourcing all started to click and it felt like second nature out on the field. I took a lot of my class books with me to my office and I have all my old notes I took from school. Anytime I get stuck or need some guidance, I pull out my pattern books or read my notes I took in class. 

How did your role in Whip It come about?

Derby Girl was a book written by Shauna Cross, was a former Los Angeles Derby Doll. Drew Barrymore decided her first directorial debut was going to be the screen adaptation of this book.  Shauna started bringing Drew to our bouts in the Spring of 2008. About 10 to 15 skaters from our league were asked to stop by Drew's production company, Flower Films, and audition for the movie. I happened to be in Pittsburgh visiting my family for the 4th of July when I received the call that I had received a part in the movie. I left for Michigan, where the movie was being filmed one week later.

What has the reaction been so far?

The reaction has been incredibly positive and uplifting. I have come to realize that this experience didn't just impact my life, but the lives of so many people around me. Everyone feels inspired by the experience. It has given me a lot of confidence in my life, my career, and in derby.

You also work with Lucky 13 Apparel. What is your day to day like there?

I work closely with the designer Heathyr Lawrence, who is also a graduate of FIDM. Together we are responsible for designing and developing the Men's, Women's, and Kid's lines here at Lucky 13. We work closely with our in house sewer to trouble shoot the best ways to develop, pattern, and sew garments.  We attend fittings and work closely with our pattern makers and fit models
to get the look, style, and fit we want. I am responsible for costing garments and making sure we're reaching necessary margins while hitting customers target pricing.

You have quite an exciting life between work and roller derby. Congrats on all of your success!

Every time I tell the story it begins with "I moved to California to attend Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising..."

Style Scoop Interview: Laura Stang

Porridge. It's not just relegated to Goldilocks anymore. It's FIDM alumna Laura Stang's spirited, soulful, feminine fashion line. We caught up with Laura (pictured above) to find out the secrets to her success. The proof is in the porridge, ahem, I mean pudding!

Name: Laura Stang
Grad Year: 2000
Major: Merchandise Marketing
Campus: Los Angeles

How did you get your first break and when did you launch?
I started by making these one-of-a-kind hand-dyed, hand-embroidered patchwork floral tank tops and selling at a boutique in Brentwood that I managed. From there, they became a fast hit. I launched Porridge in 2004.

Describe the general process you go through to design a piece of clothing.
The first piece of clothing was a true labor of love. I bought the blank tanks from American Apparel and then would dye them by hand in my kitchen in a glass salad bowl. From there they would hang dry in the house I was renting with 3 girlfriends. After the tees were dry I'd begin cutting petals out of vintage recycled clothing scraps and hand-embroidering them on the tanks. It was a process.

What do you love about your career as the owner and president of your own fashion line?
Every day is truly different and I'm constantly "on my toes."

What is the least glamorous aspect of your career?
Going to the dye house.

Describe a day in the life of someone who loves to wear Porridge.
It's a day of color and fun. Porridge is so cheerful you can't have a bad day when wearing the line.

Describe how you felt when you got your first editorial credit in a magazine?
It was awesome, almost like it wasn't real but at the same time it kept pushing me to get more edits and constantly evolve as a designer.

After running your own business, what is one major lesson learned and how did you learn it?
Don't grow too fast! Take your time and enjoy the process. It's never good when suddenly you're in over your head and feel more stressed than happy.

What is a common myth people have about fashion design?
That it's a glamorous job. Honestly, it's far grittier than people think.

What does it take to be successful?
Dedication and loving every aspect of what you do. Taking the good with the bad and being on top of every detail regarding how the business runs.

What are your long-term design goals?
To expand into doing more things print-related. I'm a textile girl at heart before a designer. Designing prints, patterns and colors are my favorite aspects of what I do daily.

You are a graduate of FIDM. How did you find out about FIDM and what went into your decision to go there?
It's local and reputable. I know I wanted to stay close to my family and FIDM is known to have a great fashion program.

How did you choose your major?
I wasn't sure about what aspect of the business I wanted to pursue so Merchandise Marketing was a great balance between business and design.

What was the best lesson you took away from FIDM?
Color Theory class and History of Costume.

What advice would you give someone who wanted to become a fashion designer?
Intern for a company and learn everything you can.

If you could collaborate with any designer in the world, who would it be and why?
Vera Neumann. She was the goddess of all things print-related and she blended art and fashion so well.

--Gigi Hooghkirk

Interview: Just Accepted FIDM Fashion Design Student Stef Tor

Name: Stef Tor
Age: 30
Hometown: Orlando, Florida
FIDM Start Date, Major, and Campus: Fashion Design, April 2010, Los Angles Campus

Tell us a little about yourself: I grew up in Canada and took Fashion Design at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada from 1998-2000. After Fashion school I did some production work for a sportswear line in Canada. I then decided to go to Florida and starting wake-skating and entering contests. After winning worlds against the guys in 2004 I started getting paid sponsorships to wake-skate full time (www.steftor.com). I have wake-skated for the last 7 years in Orlando, Florida until last year when I broke my leg pretty bad in a contest out-of-state.

I started thinking about my future beyond wakeskating and started getting back into fashion and designing my own clothing. I enrolled in a couple classes at my local college (IADT Orlando) and ended up winning two awards out of 36 designers at the Year End Fashion Show. I won Best In Show and Most Innovative Design. I then moved on to try out for Project Runway: Season 7 open casting and got a call back with an invitation to the private call in Atlanta. I am now living in London, England for the next three months working with WGSN (Worth Global Style Network) and am taking two classes at AIU London for Fashion Design. I currently have started my own line www.torbysteftor.com.

Sites you must visit daily: Lookbook.nu, Style.com, Harpersbazaar.com, Modcloth.com, fashionmagazine.com, vogue.co.uk

Favorite Designer(s): John Galliano, Karl Lagerfeld, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada

Trend/item you're loving right now: Big Architectural Shoulder pads!

Who is your style icon and why? Lady Gaga because of her brave and attention grabbing outfits

What is your dream fashion purchase? Chanel J12 watch

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? My plaid Dior pumps

You're spending an afternoon shopping in the city of your choice. What's the city and itinerary? I would be shopping in London, England. I would spend most of my time at the Chanel Boutiques on Bond Street, then head to Soho to the Irregular Choice store and buy all their shoes!

If you could own the wardrobe of anyone past or present whose would it be? I would like to own Kate Bosworth's wardrobe. She always has effortless style!

The ultimate accessory is... My Betsey Johnson neck scarf

How did you become aware of FIDM? Through the world wide web in 2003!

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? It was love at first site!

Describe how you felt when they told you that you were accepted? Excited, Happy and eager to start learning more about my craft!

What part of starting FIDM are you most looking forward to? Learning in a big city like LA from teachers who have been in the industry for a long time.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? Being able to walk right into the cutthroat fashion industry with confidence in myself and my skills as a fashion designer.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? To use my education and technical skills to be as creative as I can with fashion design. I would like to be designing clothes weather it is for my own label or someone else's.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Live, Love and and learn Fashion as a whole ! Be prepared to shed blood, sweat and tears for Fashion Design, but it is all worth it in the end.