Name: Adrianna Kinal
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.
