Designer Profile: Yaya Giovanni
By Tenley Sanduski, Fashion Writer
Eclectic, extraterrestrial, futuristic. Three words Yaya Giovanni would use to describe her collection for UW Fashion Week.
Yaya is currently a junior at UW studying Textile and Fashion Design with dreams of someday becoming a personal stylist under her own private design label. “I want to continue designing one-of-a-kind pieces for specific clients. I love interacting with people and I always want to know who’s wearing my clothes,” she explained.
Her debut collection for the UW Fashion Week Fashion Show features two-piece sets, thoughtfully crafted in earthy tones and meticulously sewn in fitted silhouettes. She specializes in dye work, creating a unique collection of colorful pieces on the forefront of the latest trends.
Yaya grew up in Chicago fostered by the city’s flourishing art scene, one she accredits to helping develop her passion for design. After school, she would often visit boutiques and museums in lieu of hanging out with friends. Observant of her surroundings, she took notice of the design details in all the things around her. Living in a hub for world-class art and architecture, Yaya grew an appreciation for color and texture. These elements are showcased in her collection for the importance and beauty she sees in them.
Though her surroundings certainly influenced her style, Yaya finds her inspiration in everything she does. “I don’t work in a very planned manner, so whatever I’m feeling at the moment inspires the direction I move in.” She sees each new day as an opportunity to explore her creativity further.
This will be the first time Yaya’s designs will be featured during UW Fashion Week. She is excited to be a part of the event and looks forward to all the unpredictable surprises to come.
Yaya’s talent and passion is undeniable. “You can expect big things from me soon,” she confidently assures. This talented designer will continue pursuing her dream in New York City this fall semester at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) as a part of their Advertising & Marketing Communications program.