FashionClub.com Daily

New Interview With Fashion Design Alumna Giovanna Huaycochea

Fashion Design Alumna Giovanna Huaycochea is a freelance fashion designer and illustrator who recently launched her own business. She also finds time to write the Boho Market blog, which focuses on things that inspire her, her work, and fashion trends.

FIDM Grad Year: 2009

Campus: Los Angeles

Job Title: Freelance Fashion Designer and Illustrator

Tell us a little about yourself: I was born in Perú and have had a passion for fashion since I was a little girl. I remember designing outfits for my dolls when I was seven years old. I love the creative process of designing because it allows me express myself in an artistic way. I'm a free spirited girl, gypsy bohemian at heart and a dreamer. I love fabrics!! I can spend hours in a fabric store, I love getting inspired by the different textiles and textures. I appreciate art and photography, enjoy music, films, and I can't live without chocolate, coffee, and cozy places.

Describe a typical work day: I have a big table full of different things that inspire me such as fabric swatches, trims, photos, different images, magazines, books, and all my materials. I try to keep close to me anything that I find interesting and eye catching! Those things help me to start developing my own ideas. Then, I start sketching until I end up with something that I really love! I'm a perfectionist so I keep pushing until I feel completely happy with my design. I also love to create a nice environment when I'm working with pleasant music, my cup of tea or coffee, and maybe a piece of chocolate.

What inspires you? I get very inspired by people who pursue their dreams. In terms of fashion, I find inspiration in many things such as art, photography, fabrics, flea markets, nature, vintage, films, etc. Inspiration can be everywhere.

What is your proudest accomplishment?  That I followed my heart and came to the U.S. to study what I love and never gave up no matter what.  

What are some projects you've worked on? As a freelance designer, I'm involved in different projects, and I especially love to work on commissioned illustrations, designs, and artistic things. I recently finished some illustrations and designs for fellow fashion bloggers, which I'll be posting on my blog for everyone to see.

What is a skill that is most valuable when owning/launching your own freelance business? I think it's very important to know your strengths and make the most of them. I also think organization and commitment are essential when owning your freelance business. I pay a lot of attention to details and customer service is very important to me. I treat my clients the way I like to be treated.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? I did my research before coming to California and visited different schools. It's hard to explain, but the first time I went to FIDM, I knew it was perfect for me. Every detail at FIDM is impeccable, from the lovely Advisor who helped me, to the environment.  

What was your favorite class at FIDM? All the Creative Design series and draping. I love the artistic part of this career and I was lucky enough to have the best instructors on those classes. They were an inspiration for me!

How has what you learned at FIDM helped you in your career? FIDM opens your eyes to new things and new opportunities, and you see things from the fashion designer's perspective. You get involved in the process of designing and that makes you understand how the fashion industry works much better.

Any advice for current FIDM Students? I absolutely believe in following your dreams and taking the opportunities that life offers you. Keep pushing and never give up on your dreams even in difficult times. Difficult times should always make you stronger and if you really love what you do, you're going to see that difficulties are just part of the journey, and at the end of the day the satisfaction of doing what you love is the best feeling. Take advantage of all the great things the school offers and most of all enjoy every single day at school.

Style Scoop Interview: Adrianna Kinal

Name: Adrianna Kinal

Grad Year: 2003

Major: Fashion Design

Campus: Los Angeles

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

My art teacher had let me know about FIDM, so when I looked into the program I was really excited about every single class offered and taught by fashion professionals. Then, there was the fact that this was a "fashion" school as opposed to a university that offers fashion classes. Also, with the campus being in the heart of the garment district in sunny California, far away from home in Canada, definitely made it the final choice for me.

How did you decide on your major?

I decided that I wanted to be a fashion designer while I was in high school and FIDM offered that major so I went for it.

What types of things did you learn that has prepared you for your career?

Every class I took has prepared me for my career in one way or another. For example, even though I don't make patterns, understanding if a pattern is made correctly is essential. Everything comes down to production, when I'm trying to find out why a garment is not fitting correctly, it's important that even though I'm not physically doing the work, I'm able to detect the mistake.

What was your favorite thing about going to FIDM?

Other students who had boundless creative energy like me and the tremendous resources and knowledgeable people at the library — they really are amazing.

You are a fashion designer, illustrator, and artist. Tell me more about these aspects of your life. How do they all relate to each other and your jewelry line?

As a fashion designer working in the garment industry, it's given me the experience in taking a design to a finished product to selling that product. It's very similar to how I structure my jewelry business. I have always been an illustrator and artist in one form or another, constantly changing the medium and refining my style. Currently I choose jewelry to be my medium by fusing my design skills together with my experience.

What is the name of your jewelry line?

AA Kinal. It stands for my name, Adrianna Aleksandra Kinal.

Describe your line.

The pieces have a lot of character. The aesthetic is bold and sophisticated with a tough edge. It's made out of an array of semi-precious stones like onyx and agate combined with metal beads, spikes and steel chains.

Who would you love to see your jewelry on?

I like to see it on women who are confident, fashion-forward, and fearlessly living life without apologies.

What inspires your creativity?

I hunt through a multitude of visual and auditory sources that convey a certain attitude—of strength, rebellion, and individualism, and I formulate it into my jewelry that is relevant for the woman of today.

What is your must-have accessory right now?

Chunky earrings, '80s style.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about going to FIDM?

I would speak to industry professionals about the pros and cons and see if you can get a glimpse into their everyday work routine to see if that's ultimately what you want to study and make a career out of. Also, always keep in touch with peers, mentors, and teachers.

What is the next big trend in jewelry?

Jewelry everywhere—on your shoes, your bag, on your pet!

What is your biggest dream right now?

It would be very cool to carry on having the means and freedom to design jewelry that is accepted and respected. To leave my mark in this world through something I've created or that makes another person inspired, happy or somehow betters this world would be my ultimate dream.

New Interview With FIDM Visual Communications Student Ryan Pinter

Visual Communications Student Ryan Pinter has loved fashion since he was a young boy and after coming to FIDM "something just clicked." Read our interview with Ryan to learn more about his accomplishments, favorite designers, and how he chose his major!

Age:  20

Hometown: Pleasant Hill, CA

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m a Bay Area native. I’ve known that I wanted to work in fashion since the second grade when I told my teacher that when I grew up, I was going to work for Giorgio Armani.

What is one of your proudest accomplishments? While I was taking Marketing Events at FIDM, I was assigned to provide gift bags for our school event. Since I didn’t have a budget, I had to basically ask for handouts. In the end, I successfully negotiated over 100 gift bags to be donated by Aveda and Ghirardelli. It all turned out brilliantly.

Favorite designer: There are and were so many greats, it’s hard to choose. Hubert de Givenchy is probably my favorite designer of all time, however I love what Alber Elbaz has done for Lanvin as well. I love Thomas Pink and Marc Jacobs because they actually understand that tall men (like me) can be thin as well.

Trend/item you're loving right now: I love the utility jacket for Spring! It started as a trend for men back in Fall 2009, and now it’s showing up in women’s Spring 2010 collections. That’s when you know a trend is really good -- when it can cross the lines of gender in the same year and people still think it’s great.

Who is your style icon and why? For men, it’s Clark Gable (who single-handedly made it fashionable for men not to wear an undershirt), and Cary Grant, who epitomized classic Hollywood -- nobody wore a suit like Cary Grant. For women, it’s got to be Jacqueline Kennedy. She gave this country class and changed the way American women look at fashion. 

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? I love my black trench coat by Burberry Prorsum. I waited so long before I finally stopped growing and then I bought it.  I love how universal it is. I can wear it with my super-basic Levi’s and a sweater from H&M and it instantly boosts the outfit.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? I knew that I didn’t want to go to a conventional college – or rather, one that made me take science classes.  But once I got into my second quarter, and I took the class Trends: Past, Present and Future with my Instructor Marsha Silberstein, something just clicked.  It has been four quarters since and there has never been a dull moment. I wouldn’t want to have it any other way.

How did you choose your major? I’ve always been a visual person and someone who has always appreciated fashion as an art form, rather than something you just put on your back.  So, when I first came to FIDM, my Admissions Advisor and I talked about Visual Communications and it just seemed perfect. It was creative, fashion based, and I got to build projects with my hands. 

New Just Accepted FIDM Student Interview: Danielle Heer

With a love of everything from surreal art to experimental music, Danielle Heer has no shortage of inspiration when it comes to design. We caught up with Danielle to see how she chose her major and what she plans to do after graduating from FIDM.

Age: 16

Hometown: Placerville, CA

FIDM Start Date: Fall 2010

Major: Graphic Design

Campus: San Francisco

Tell us about yourself: I come from a small town and I've been doing Graphic Design for four years, specializing in abstract, but I have fun doing anything. I work for a software company called Alight, doing design and video work. I'm also into makeup artistry, video production, fashion, surreal art, and music. I'm outgoing and I love to meet other artists. I'm always wearing stilettos.

What is one of your proudest accomplishments? Probably when I was presented with an award for winning the Every 15 Minutes T-shirt design contest in an assembly in front of hundreds of people. I was also on the video team and we had been up all night long editing. So even though I was exhausted and a little sick, it felt so good to be recognized for all my hard work.

Who is your favorite artist or designer? My favorite graphic designer is Dennis Sibeijn. His work is so genius I can't even begin to describe.

What's one trend or item you're loving now? Silk corsets and studded stilettos. I'm willing to sacrifice myself to the cold weather for the good of the outfit.

Who is your style icon and why? Definitely Rhianna because everything she wears is very similar to my style, so I quite often get inspiration from some of her ensembles.

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? My shredded and bleached jeans, which are falling apart and barley wearable, but they fit like a glove.

How did you know FIDM was the right college for you? Because it mixes Graphic Design with the Fashion Industry, the two things I'm very interested in. Also, it's a very focused environment. This will give me the opportunity to really pursue what I want to do and be around people with the same interests.

How did you choose your major? Graphic Design is my passion and it's what I'm good at.

What are you most excited to learn about? I'm very excited to learn about the concept of forming good marketing ideas and there are some classes I have been wanting to take for years.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I will be expanding my portfolio and developing my skills to become a professional.

What are your career goals after graduating from FIDM? I would love to start out working in a firm or company and then later graduate to creating my own business designing band logos and album art.

What advice would you give students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Go above and beyond and show them why your not just anyone.

Style Scoop Interview: Just Accepted - Vanesa Fernandez!

This month, we're featuring inspirational talent Vanesa Fernandez. At just 18 years of age, Vanesa is a remarkable go-getter with an eye for fashion. Let's find out more about this unique student and her future plans at FIDM! --Alaythia

Name: Vanesa Fernandez
Age: 18
City: Quail Valley, CA
FIDM Start Date, Major, & Campus: July 2010, Merchandise Product Development, Orange County

Sites you must visit daily: Well, I’m usually on the internet 24/7 so I have to visit Twitter, Perez Hilton, and MySpace. 

Favorite Designer: I love Lilly Pulitzer. Her prints are so cute and she uses amazing colors.

Your top sources of inspiration: I love bright and fun colors, so that plays a big part. I also love using my surroundings. Basically, everything inspires me.    

Who is your style icon and why? Well, I’m really Into the old Hollywood glam-thing so it would definitely be Audrey Hepburn. Her style was so simple, yet so elegant.

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? My black cardigan. 

If you could own the wardrobe of any film or t.v. character, whose would it be? Definitely Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

What is your dream fashion purchase? The Darcia dress from Lilly Pulitzer. It's so cute!

The ultimate accessory is: A cute bag and cute shoes.

How did you become aware of FIDM? I became aware of FIDM about 5 years ago through my grandmother. 

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? Applying to FIDM just felt right to me: I felt so at home. For the longest time I knew that FIDM was where I wanted to go, but I didn’t do anything about it. When I finally decided to apply it was probably the best decision I've ever made.

What was your favorite part of applying to FIDM? The project was great... It was fun taking my passion to the next level! I'd never done a project like that before and the advisors were so nice, it really made everything really easy!  

Describe how you felt when they told you that you were accepted? Well at first I didn’t believe it. I sat there in awe until my mother started crying, and that’s when it hit me, so I started crying. It’s a big deal since I’m the first in my family to go to college.   

What part of starting FIDM are you most looking forward to? I’m really looking forward to the classes and the teachers. But overall, just the experience!  

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I expect to gain a lot of respect for the industry. I also hope to obtain great working skills. 

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? I would like to open up my own boutique. It's my dream to have my own store, and by fulfilling that, I will have accomplished what I've always wanted. 

What should potential students do in High School to prepare for a future at FIDM? When it comes to pursuing your dreams, believing in yourself is key. Don't hesitate to apply, because you'll regret it for the rest of your life.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? I think it's important to just be yourself! I also believe that you should never hold back, as it won't get you anywhere if you do. Just go for it!

New Just Accepted! Orange County FIDM Student Interview: Zoe Tucker

Age: Wonderfully 17

Hometown: San Diego

FIDM Start Date: July 2010

Major: Merchandise Product Development

Campus: FIDM Orange County

Tell us a little about yourself: I am a very enthusiastic person eager to learn anything I can to better my future and the future of my family! I am caring and fun to be around. At FIDM I was told that I am very well spoken and mature for my age. I have a lot of determination and there is nothing that could stop me from my dreams of succeeding in the fashion industry!

What is one of your proudest accomplishments? My proudest moment is when I got accepted to attend FIDM

Favorite designer: Juicy Couture's Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor, because their designs are so out of the box and edgy!

Trend/item you're loving right now: Bright tops with single colored pants/shorts with nice pumps to finish it off, very urban looking!

Who is your style icon and why? i actually don't have a specific icon, but whoever looks the best in my magazines at the time is my inspiration!

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? At the moment it's my warm yet sharp jacket I just recently bought!

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? As soon as I began speaking with my counselor Roxy Deguzman, who gave me all the information I needed, I knew I could do it. The day I went to my consultation with my parents my mom kept nodding her head because she knew I could do it! That's when it became real for me.

How did you choose your major? I chose my major after discussing where my strengths and weaknesses were.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I expect to gain all the knowledge I need to know in order to succeed in the fashion industry.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? To be managing my own business and have clothes that I helped put together in my favorite stores like Urban Outfitters!

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? I would say that determination and confidence is key. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it! You can! FIDM has all the resources you need to succeed!

Interview: FIDM San Francisco Student Kristina Stolting

Name: Kristina Stolting
Age: 19
Hometown: Santa Cruz, Ca

FIDM Grad Year, Major: FIDM ‘11, Fashion Design

Campus: FIDM San Francisco

Tell us a little about yourself: Ever since I was a little girl I was in love with fashion, and now I am following my passion here in the Bay Area and having the time of my life. I love music, movies, and meeting new people.

Favorite Designer: Alber Elbaz, Marchesa, Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs…too many to name!

Albar Elbaz

Trend/item you're loving right now: Over-the-knee boots and studs!

Who is your style icon and why? I’m more inspired by people on the street than any one person.

Alexander McQueen Oyster Dress

What is your dream fashion purchase?  The otherworldly “Oyster Dress” by Alexander McQueen (unfortunately, I think it’s still housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.)

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? Blazers - I couldn’t live without them

You're spending an afternoon shopping in the city of your choice. What's the city and itinerary? Hong Kong! I hear it is a mecca for designer duds at an insanely good price, so naturally I would stock up on all things Marc Jacobs.

The Life Aquatic

If you could own the wardrobe of any film or TV character (past or present) whose would it be? That’s a tough one…although I’ve always wanted one of the track suits from The Life Aquatic. But really it would be a tie-breaker between Holly Golightly and Penny Lane.

The ultimate accessory is...  Confidence

How did you become aware of FIDM? Speakers came to my high school to talk to us about the program; that’s how my interest started.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? Time. I spent a year going to another college and spent time really thinking about what was right for me. FIDM was the clear choice, and was the only school that could really help me achieve my goals.

Describe how you felt when they told you that you were accepted?  I was thrilled! There was no other place I wanted to be, so it felt so amazing to be accepted.

What part of starting FIDM are you most looking forward to? Since I have started (and am about to end my first quarter) I have already been presented with great opportunities. There are so many amazing resources that the school offers, I really recommend taking advantage of them! The career center set me up backstage as a dresser at my first fashion show and it was a great experience. Besides the career opportunities, you get to meet so many talented and passionate people every day; it really is an amazing community.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? Already I have started gaining the skills I need to be successful in this industry. I have learned an immense amount this quarter from all of my instructors, but one of the biggest things I’ve learned is time management.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? I hope to continue on in FIDM's Costume Design for Film & TV program in Los Angeles, eventually to become a Costume Designer.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Don’t take the decision lightly. As much fun as FIDM is, it’s really hard work! When you join FIDM you are making a commitment not just to the program, but to yourself. If you are self-motivated, passionate, and determined to do your personal best, then FIDM is definitely the school for you. 

Interview: New Just Accepted FIDM Student Melissa Triber

Newly accepted FIDM Professional Designation Merchandise Product Development Student Melissa Triber's fashion collection "Pantone Pandemonium" won Judge's Choice at Central Washington University. She begins her studies at FIDM in Winter 2010.

Name:                  
Melissa Triber

Age:                 
22

Hometown:                 
Spokane, Washington

FIDM Start Date, Major, and Campus:                 
Winter 2010
Professional Designation Product Development
FIDM Los Angeles Campus

Tell us a little about yourself:
I value genuine self-expression above conformity, and I believe irreplaceable characteristics separate individuals from the ordinary.  I just graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Fashion Merchandising from Central Washington University, and I cannot wait to see where life takes me at FIDM as I have big dreams that can’t wait to be fulfilled.     

Sites you must visit daily:
Too many probably!  At least:
www.californiastyleonline.com
www.refinery29.com
www.fashionista.com
www.thesartorialist.blogspot.com 
www.lookbook.nu
www.nylonmag.com
www.whowhatwear.com
www.style.com
..& I must check up on my little Tavi every now and then: www.tavi-newgirlintown.blogspot.com

Vena Cava

Favorite Designer:
While I’m a huge fan of Henry Holland, Luella Bartley and Christopher Kane, my favorite designer duo is Lisa Mayock and Sophie Buhai of Vena Cava.  Their brilliant collections are full of symbolism, making their eccentric style so inspiring but easily underestimated with such neatly constructed ready-to-wear pieces.

Trend/item you're loving right now:
Leather, ripped denim & studs (oh my!). 

 

Chloe Sevigny (middle)

Who is your style icon and why?
I love love love Chloe Sevigny. She is my idol.  Her independent sense of style is captivating and she is never afraid to push boundaries, which is what fashion and self-expression is all about.

What is your dream fashion purchase?
I would have to say the entire company of Topshop. Why not dream big eh?  This would allow me to continually strut lovely clothing on a regular basis—minus the Chanel knock-offs.

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe?
My newly purchased pair of Opening Ceremony booties.
 
You're spending an afternoon shopping in the city of your choice. What's the city and itinerary? After living in LA last summer, I fell in love with the small clothing boutiques and vintage stores in Los Feliz & Silverlake.  However, if I could choose anywhere it would have to be London.  I’d start off with a coffee from Monmouth (because a girl needs her caffeine before shopping) and then make my way to Dover Street Market, Topshop (given that I don’t own it yet), and all independent shops I can find in-between.  I’m studying Product Development because I want to go into fashion forecasting, which means I would not only garment shop in London, but I would study street fashion and mingle through art galleries, furniture shops, record stores, and Magma; a fashion-focused bookstore.       

Cher

If you could own the wardrobe of any film or TV character (past or present) whose would it be? Oh, besides Kurt Cobain’s?  Hmmm, well I love the 90’s so probably Cher from Clueless.  I’m ecstatic with the crop top and I know I can count on her for that.  I would also hope getting her closet means the computer program that takes inventory of all her clothing is included.  It’s ironically, genius.
 
The ultimate accessory is... fantastic, chunky jewelry.
 
How did you become aware of FIDM? During my freshman year of college at Seattle Pacific University, FIDM contacted the school to speak with fashion/interior design students in regards to further reaching career goals after receiving a Bachelors Degree.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? I had an idea as soon as I made eye contact with the FIDM catalog.  Any school that is represented by a directory of unconventional shape while simultaneously bursting with bright colors is where I should be enrolled.  It just got better from there. 

Describe how you felt when they told you that you were accepted?  I was so ecstatic I almost peed my pants…and that’s definitely not an attractive statement coming from a 22-year-old…or anyone.

What part of starting FIDM are you most looking forward to? I am so thrilled to learn and further expand my knowledge of the fashion industry from a school where all members of the community hold interests and views that compliment one another.  FIDM places you in an environment where everyone is working towards a common goal to be involved in an artistic industry. 
 
What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? By studying Product Development from talented professors who are already involved in the fashion industry, I look forward to constantly learning and receiving constructive assessment as well as establishing relationships with prospective friends, clients, business partners, etc.  The possibilities are endless!
 
What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? In becoming a fashion-trend analyst, I hope to inspire artistic ideas and outlooks on life.  I have a vision of empowering individuals to release creativity and promote eccentricity within one another.  I look forward to traveling all over and searching for new and striking culture.  Upon doing so, the color, fabric and style ideals discovered can continually promote product—and personal—development. 

From Melissa Triber's fashion collection "Pantone Pandemonium"

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM?  “In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.” –Coco Chanel. With that in mind, I say you’ll always be unique if you are completely yourself in an application.

New Interview With FIDM Student Jenna Von Schlegel

Name: Jenna Alexandria Von Schlegel

Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, CA

FIDM Grad Date: Graduating Fall 2009 from Merchandise Product Development Program and entering the Bachelor of Science Program Winter 2010.

Campus: Los Angeles

Current employment: Working part-time for a printing distribution center Innovative Printing Concepts. I work as a graphic designer for them.

Tell us a little about yourself: Before I started working for Innovative two years ago, I was a sales associate at Macy’s and worked in the Juniors Department. I love reading anything that involves learning about nutrition, health, and physical fitness. I am an avid runner and fierce snowboarder. I am a true nature lover at heart and will do almost anything to be outside!

What is an accomplishment you are most proud of? I recently trained for a half marathon. Although it was grueling and proved very challenging to train in the summer months, with the help of two equally as dedicated friends we were able to accomplish our goal! I am also very proud that during my time here at FIDM I have maintained a GPA of 3.5 and am part of the Premiere Product Development Group. It is been so enjoyable to be able to meet with other students who are working just has hard and passionately as you to achieve your individual goals!

Favorite designer: Ralph Lauren. I used to do English horseback riding and love equestrian inspired dressing! I think his clean, classic and tailored looks are so flattering and well crafted.

Upcoming trend/item you're secretly coveting: The oversized sweater knits we are seeing. It is easy and comfy fashion. Whether you’re at the office or going for a night on the town, the look is chic and elegant!

Do you have a style icon? I love Leighton Meester’s forward yet chic and daring looks. She is always changing it up and taking fashion risks! For her young age I think this Gossip Girl is well on her way to being a key trend setter.

How did you choose FIDM? Growing up, my Grandma was an artistic and thus instilled the same love she had for it in me. When I was old enough to express myself through my clothing, drawing, and writing I knew I would have to find a school that was equally as encouraging as my Grandma. When I first toured FIDM I could clearly see that would allow me to channel my artistic abilities and enable me to use them in my future career. I did early acceptance and went straight out of high school.

How did you choose your major? After talking it over with my student advisor Suzanne McDonald, we narrowed it down to three choices. After going home that week and really contemplating what would best suit my particular needs I went with Merchandise Product Development. It was the perfect major for allowing me to express some of my individual creativity while still giving me knowledge in the business side of the industry.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I have gained so much knowledge, not only how the fashion industry is run, but on how this world and its global market works in its entirety. I now feel confident in how to forecast and predict upcoming trends and what kinds of marketing and advertising strategies I must consider in order to not only start my own company but how to successfully maintain it.

What has been your favorite class so far? My Classification and Line Development course combines almost all the previous knowledge I have obtain in my time at FIDM in to one final portfolio. It allows me to use my forecasting skills as well as my artistic ability to help my team of designers create a cohesive line for the Nordstrom Savvy Department.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? To eventually and effectively run my own company. I feel by combining my love for fitness with my artistic abilities I could offer something unique and new to that industry. 

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? To know what they want and personally expect to gain from FIDM. The school can offer you so much so you have to be willing to work hard and pay attention. Everything I have learned during my time here has prepared me to move forward and take that next step toward accomplishing my ultimate career goals.

Interview With Merchandise Product Development Student Courtney Schultz

Name: Courtney Schultz

Hometown: Pueblo, CO

FIDM Grad Date: December 2009

Major: Merchandise Product Development

Campus: Los Angeles

Website: http://districtc.blogspot.com

Current job: FIDM: Admissions Assistant, Arden B Fashion Specialist, and BCBG Intern in Product Development for Handbags.

Tell us a little about yourself: I am from a small town in Colorado and I moved to California to attend FIDM two years ago. I am finally getting settled in this big 'ol city and I am enjoying exploring it more everyday. I am getting the opportunity to attend more events and meet more people. I love staying connected to what's going on around me. I do this by reading LA Magazine, the weekly newsletter in Student Activities,  and blogs like this one.

What is an accomplishment you are most proud of? When I graduate from college I will be VERY proud of myself!!

Favorite designer: My favorite designer is my one of my good friends, Andres Alves! He graduated in Fashion Design and is finishing up his degree in Textile Design. He will be known as a great couturier very soon! I can't wait to see what amazing designs he has up his sleeves.

Upcoming trend you're secretly coveting: Long locks will get a classy cut to shoulder length. Also, embossed snakeskin will soon rule the world.

Do you have a style icon? I can't get over the impeccable style of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, but I am really loving what Michelle Obama is doing with her First Lady wardrobe.

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? I just splurged on a pair of BCBG Runway heels: black pebble leather, dark wooden heel, and a hidden platform for ultimate comfort. They are my babies.

How did you choose FIDM? I knew it was the only place that would cater to my passion. I was intimidated at first, but now I can't imagine calling any other place home.

How did you choose your major? When I was first enrolled at FIDM I was a Visual Communications student. I stayed with this major for three quarters and loved every minute of it, but I felt like I was missing something though. It was a sewing machine! I needed to learn the process of creating garments and I felt like Product Development was a nice mix of design and business. It was the best thing I ever did.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM? I have already gained so much! Three most important things are confidence, career placement, and CONTACTS!  My collection of business cards is always growing! You meet so many people as a FIDM student!

What has been your favorite class so far? I loved my History of Costume class! I took it on a Saturday for six hours and I always felt like I could stay longer and soak up more history.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM? To have my own trend predictive!

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Challenge yourself! If there is something you don't know how to do, but want to do, choose that major!