Dark times in our lives are always the biggest chances to start fresh. That’s exactly what FDM student Kaitlyn Cowlishaw did with her 2017 collection for the ISU Fashion Show. Kaitlyn took a hard time in her life and turned it into something amazing. Read on to find our more about this ambitious designer.
Her Campus: Have you always been a fashion major?
Kaitlyn: I have always been in fashion since I decided to declare, a major but when first applying to colleges I was all over the map between Business, Art, Communication and Fashion. It was visiting campus that really sold me on the program, when I got a tour of the department and met different faculty who were all friendly and welcoming.
Her Campus: What inspires you to do the work you do?
Kaitlyn: Regardless of anything I do will be original and my own creation. I love that I get the freedom to us my mind and imagination in everything I do.
Her Campus: Tell us something interesting about yourself that sets you apart from other designers:
Kaitlyn: My spontaneity and willingness to try and break out of the mainstream
Her Campus: Other than designing for the fashion show, what other projects are you working on right now?
Kaitlyn: Other than the show I’m currently making 2 formal dresses for my friend and I to wear to our sorority formal.
Her Campus: What’s your favorite part about the FDM program?
Kaitlyn: My favorite part of the program is that we have such great one on one attention from the faculty that we’re all able to work on a more personal level.
Her Campus: What are your plans after college?
Kaitlyn: I’m planning to continue on to Italy in the fall semester to finish my Merchandising degree, as well as completing a internship in London during the spring.
Her Campus: As far as your collection for the 2017 fashion show, can you give us an idea of what we can expect?
Kaitlyn: My collection for the show comes from a time that I was in a dark place, which I have turned into something that can be beautiful yet still features a fatal element.
Her Campus: Thank you Kaitlyn, we look forward to seeing your collection at the show!
Tickets for the 2017 Illinois State Fashion Show are on sale at the Braden Box Office, or online at Ticketmaster.com. The show is April 13th with light refreshments at 5 p.m. and a show start time of 7 p.m.