A Look Into the Life of a Social Media and Fashion Designer
The fashion and social media industries have reputations for being competitive and intimidating workplaces. Olivia McHugh is a young designer working on the creation of her own brand, as well as working for Sara Campbell in Boston. She has spent the last few years working on curating her brand and its image by use of social media. This interview gives a small glance of her world and her advice for anyone looking to work in a similar field. Her work and designs can be seen on her instagram @oliv.by.design.
Who are you?
Olivia McHugh, 23 years old, graduated from Massachusetts College of Art and Design in 2021. Art enthusiast – went to school for fashion design and sustainability, Massachusetts born and raised – been in Boston for 6 years! Loves family and friends aka amazing support system. Spends most summers out of the city and by the beach
What was your college experience like?
I went to Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston MA from 2017 to 2021 for fashion design and sustainability. I loved my college experience – mostly working with all different mediums. I also had the amazing opportunity to travel to Laos and learn about sustainable dyes and fabrics. A huge con was online learning during the pandemic since I am such a visual learner but it led me to get into graphic design/ graphic mediums. But the year and half of online school led me to start a small brand that’s primarily social media based.
What drew you to fashion design?
I have always loved creating and fashion design. I struggled with other studies in school and never felt motivated or inspired. I always felt such inspiration when creating art in really any medium. Growing up I always imagined I’d have my own store/ fashion line and as other kids grow out of their childhood fantasies I wanted to further mine.
Is there a hesitation when going into this field due to its competitive nature? Have you found that stereotype to be true (the cutthroat nature of designers)?
Honestly no – all designers I have worked with have been incredibly collaborative and supportive. From school to work. I currently work at Sara Campbell which is a womenswear brand based in boston and it’s an amazing team of designers.
Who is your favorite designer? Which designer would you most like to work under?
I really don’t have a favorite designer – I love companies that work for positive reasons and adapt to change. I would love to work for Patagonia or Converse in the near future. Converse isn’t very eco friendly but they create affordable long lasting products. I love how they adapt to trends.
What is your “end goal” of working in this field?
I would love to have my own swim/ summer apparel company in the next 5-10 years! This would be primarily focused on my designs and prints on towels, bags, hats and swimwear
What is one thing you wish you could tell your younger self?
Don’t stress so much – everything will work out as it should!
What is your advice for anyone who wants to work in the design, media, or fashion areas?
Do it ! So many jobs are available now if you are flexible and are open to try new things. Great opportunity to learn and grow.