Skilled is an understatement when it comes to Paulina Wietocha. Paulina has been working on her apparel construction skills for about eight years now, and it has grown to be her passion. Although this design major didn’t come to ISU to be apart of the Fashion Design program, she is now working hard to pursue this career. Paulina’s technique sets her apart from other designers, and it that will shine through in her collection for the 2017 ISU fashion show. Read on to find out more about this talented designer!
Her Campus: Have you always been a fashion major?
Paulina: No, but I have always been passionate about apparel construction! I started sewing freshman year of high school, but I originally came to ISU as an FCS teacher education major. Now I’m double-majoring in Teaching as well as Fashion Design.
HC: What inspires you to do the work you do?
Paulina: When I was much younger, I went through hobbies frivolously. When I asked for a sewing machine one Christmas, my parents had little faith that this interest would stick. I remember competing at FCCLA (Family Community Career Leaders of America, an organization for Family and Consumer Sciences) State Conference soon after. My father was in utter disbelief that I had placed 1st in all of Illinois for my construction. This is about the time I learned my grandmother was an amazing seamstress as well. Now, I lose myself in my work and I continue striving to be the best.
HC: Tell us something interesting about yourself that sets you apart from other designers:
Paulina: I am more interested in the technical aspect of design. Patternmaking and attention to detail in sewing are important to me. As someone who craves a challenge, I enjoy to incorporate advanced techniques in my construction. I’d like to think that my execution is what sets me apart.
Her Campus: Other than designing for the fashion show, what other projects are you working on right now?
Paulina: Currently, I am observing/teaching at University High School three days a week, volunteering at the 4-H club of the Unity Community Center in Bloomington, presenting in this years University Research Symposium at ISU, and judging apparel construction at the FCCLA state conference in Springfield, all while working part-time at Coldstone Creamery. If I have enough time, I’d like to make myself a dress to wear to the fashion show. Good thing I already have a design in mind
Her Campus: What’s your favorite part about the FDM program?
Paulina: I absolutely love all aspects! I am grateful to be surrounded by such talented and passionate colleagues! From learning about fashion history with the use of garments from the Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection to giving back by volunteering with Fix-It Friday, this program confirms that I am on the right path.
Her Campus: What are your plans after college?
Paulina: Originally planning to start my career as a high school teacher after college, I am actually aspiring to continue with graduate school in order to obtain a masters degree.
Her Campus: As far as your collection for the 2017 fashion show, can you give us an idea of what we can expect?
Paulina: Drawing inspiration from my favorite genius, surrealist painter Salvador Dali, I want to show impeccable tailoring in unusual silhouettes. The basic shape of a circle is the basis of my designs in this collection. With a nod to the 1960’s, the colors and drama should evoke feelings of nostalgia with a futuristic twist.
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.