Hawaii Fashion Month showcases designs from two UH graduates

One of the best things about Hawaii Fashion Month is the support given to young, local talent. Meet two 2013 graduates from the UH Apparel Product Design and Merchandising Program who will be showcasing their unique designs this month.

Breanne Lee

HiSAM Fashion Show Designer

TO HAVE AND TO FOLD
Inspired by the manipulation and construction of fabrics, Lee heavily focuses her designs on structure, texture and simple silhouettes.

Describe the look you designed for the HiSAM fashion show.
My garment was inspired by the fox trot, one of the most popular contemporary first dances for the bride and groom. The dress features a fitted bodice with a gathered skirt. The skirt allows the bride freedom to glide across the dance floor while the blouson accentuates the back, a crucial structure for maintaining proper form.

What’s the most exciting project you’ve worked on since graduating?
My partner Patricia Clariza and I created a dress out of locally picked plumeria flowers for the LICH Project Greenway event.

As a local designer, what does Hawaii Fashion Month mean to you?
It's an excellent opportunity for local designers to showcase their work and network with other individuals in the industry.

Fashion icons:
I enjoy watching the fashion on the television series Suits. The costume designer features Christian Dior, Victoria Beckham, Prada and Burberry.

Dream job:
To be a product developer for Sanrio Inc.

In five years, where do you hope to see your designs?
I would like to see my designs in a local boutique and on Project Runway.

Advice for want-to-be designers just starting their college years:
Perseverance is key in this competitive field. Design is always evolving and it is crucial for designers to continue to learn and develop their skills.

Jenna Sato

Nordstrom Window Presenter

HOUSE OF FUN
Sato consistently works on infusing classic, vintage lines with modern features, making every piece she creates fun to wear.

What inspired your UH senior collection?
Classic, feminine silhouettes from the '50s and edgy, cutout styles from the '80s. I used both details in my collection and added my signature touch of sheer panels.

What’s the most exciting project you’ve worked on since graduating?
I have to say getting dress orders for the Hawaii Five-O premiere and Hawaii Fashion Month premiere.

As a local designer, what does Hawaii Fashion Month mean to you?
It's a great opportunity to network with people in the local fashion industry, and a chance for me to showcase my designs in front of a different audience.

Fashion icons:
Christian Dior, Zac Posen, Jason Wu.

Dream job:
To be an entrepreneur fashion designer and have my own business.

In five years, where do you hope to see your designs?
I’m in the process of creating a fashion label called Haus of Quirk. I’d like to start online and eventually open a boutique.

Advice for want-to-be designers just starting their college years:
Don’t let anyone discourage you from realizing your true passion. Just go for it and dream big!