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Fashion Week Q&A with Zenia De Sousa

Venezuela native Zenia De Sousa chose to study fashion in Miami because of its strong connection to the fashion world. “[It’s in the] middle of one of the most exciting retail and design areas. I [believe that] living in Miami and watching the trends on the streets gives me a sense of [what customers want],” she says.

Zenia is inspired by the minimalistic aspects found in architecture and industrial design—and infuses this feeling into her men’s- and womenswear creations. She utilized Roman numerals in her quilted jacket designs to incorporate an “androgynous feeling” into the finished product.

Zenia hopes to launch her own company that will appeal to young customers who love having an “edge to their style.” She is a 2015 graduate of Miami International University of Art & Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design.

What inspired your design?

This collection is [inspired by] the near future and its dynamics. Society in modern times strives for minimalism in character as well as in design. The minimal aspect is where the details lie.

How did you begin the design process?

First and foremost, the foundation for my design and inspiration is fabric. I tend to start with materials. After selecting materials, my imagination takes over, leading into the inspiration board.

How did your Fashion Design education build your confidence as a designer?

My education [started me in the] right direction in the fashion industry, and I’m very grateful for having this opportunity. My construction classes prepared me for the reality of the high-pressure career of a Fashion Designer. I had my doubts about my design abilities at first. But soon, I built my confidence with the help of my instructors.

What are you doing to prepare for the runway?

[I’m] double checking for proper garment sizing, organization of model and garments, and [experiencing] a whole lot of nerves. The main [challenge] of this learning experience is working under pressure and [working] as a head designer.

What would you tell current fashion students?

Work hard, stay dedicated, always fight for what you want to be in the future, and never give up. Everything is possible as long as you stay on the right path.

Which designers, blogs, or publications inspire you?

[I‘m inspired by] Alexander Wang, KTZ, Proenza Schouler, Carolina Herrera, and a.b.Hombre. I tend to [follow] architecture and industrial design.

Watch the live broadcast here!

Check out the other designers participating in Fashion Week

View Zenia’s sketches and inspiration board by clicking on the thumbnails

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