Today’s Alumni Updateis with Stephanie Hoffmann, a 2010 B.F.A. Knitwear Design graduate. She was awarded an internship with Diane von Furstenberg at the May 2010 Graduation Fashion Show and is now back in San Francisco working on a line of accessories – you can check them out at San Francisco boutique Circle & Square! Read on to learn more about her experience in NYC and what she’s working on next!

After graduating, you were awarded an internship with Diane von Furstenberg. What was that experience like?

It was such a interesting learning experience. Even though I was hired to help with the knitwear department, I was able to help a little bit with all the departments there, including embellishments, accessories, and their famous print department. I even had a few of my prints put into production.

What was the most valuable thing you learned?

I guess just the way a major fashion line is produced was the most interesting part. I was lucky enough to work on the DVF Spring 2011 collection pretty much from start to finish, and just to see it take shape from the first inspiration boards to the final pieces was such cool thing to be part of. The evolution of the collection was pretty astounding.

What did you enjoy most about your internship and living in New York?

The other interns while I was there at DVF were all so awesome, and all so talented in their own ways. They were from all different corners of the world too, from Paris to England, to Israel and Sweden. I loved the multicultural environment. Just living in New York too was such a culture shock, and a learning experience in and of itself. I’m from a very small town in Northern CA, and even though I’ve been living in San Francisco for the past 6 years, living in Manhattan was a whole other beast. Part of me loved it–there was always something cool to see or do, and the art and culture there is amazing. But part of me also hated it; just the darkness and loneliness of it at times. San Francisco is my home, it’s equal parts cosmopolitan and beautiful, and it has its own sense of humor about it–pretty much no one in San Francisco takes themselves too seriously, which I like.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

In today’s Alumni Update, we spoke with Ksenia Avdulova, a 2010 M.F.A. Fashion Merchandising alumna who now works in Social Media at Gilt Groupe. She centered her senior thesis on the e-commerce retailer, worked her way up, and eventually landed her dream job! She was also one of the panelists at the online student workshop in New York. Read on for Ksenia’s insights into the growing role of social media in fashion – and for some awesome NYC recommendations!

You recently started working as the Community Manager at Gilt Groupe. What does your job entail?

Being a social media manager has many different aspects to it, but if I had to break it down to three main fields that I work on daily, they would be:

1. Ensuring that Gilt Groupe’s vision and voice is consistently represented across the social media channels, mainly by creating content for Facebook and Twitter. The company has several businesses; all of them have social media presence, and I am responsible for managing and growing the largest one – the Women’s Wear Business.

2. Listening, analyzing, and implementing. I can’t stress how valuable social media is in terms of listening to customers (present and potential). It’s not just about knowing what interactions are taking place on our Facebook and Twitter pages, but much more so about using that information to cater to our followers and provide them with content that they want to engage with. A big part of that is working closely with the Social Customer Support team, which does an absolutely amazing job of answering customers’ questions and resolving their issues via our Facebook and Twitter pages.

3. Project managing social partnerships with external partners. Besides being very social, interactive, and fun, the Community Manager job involves a good amount of project management. For example, currently we’re running a Sweepstakes in partnership with Milly. It was my job to act as a liaison between various teams within Gilt, Milly, and the app developer to ensure a smooth launch and running of the campaign.

Being a community manager is a very exciting and fast-paced role, especially at a company that is known to be a trend-setter in its field. There’s never a dull moment: there’s always a new online conversation to monitor, a new trend to watch, and a new idea for a Facebook post. The most rewarding part about the job is the communication that happens with followers of the company, as well as being a part Gilt’s creative, driven and dynamic team.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

We are so excited to announce that School of Fashion alumnae Bethany Meuleners and Sabah Mansoor Husain have been selected to participate in the Macy’s Fashion Incubator program in San Francisco! The program, sponsored by Macy’s West, allows designers to rent sewing workshops at Macy’s and work with fashion, business, and retail experts to build their line.

Bethany and Sabah both graduated from the Academy of Art University in 2010 with Master’s of Fine Arts degrees in Fashion and Knitwear Design. Both designers showed their collections during the Academy of Art University Fall ’10 Fashion Show at New York Fashion Week.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

In today’s Alumni Update, we catch up with Cara Chiappetta, who graduated from the School of Fashion in 2011 with an M.F.A. in Fashion Design. She now has a job that she absolutely loves and learns from everyday! Read on to find out more!

You debuted your senior collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week S/S 2011 – what was the experience like?

In one word: surreal. In three: a great honor. I remember working in NYC in 2000 near Bryant Park and walking past the white tents in the chilly-city early mornings promising myself that I too, would be under those tents- as a designer. I just never expected it happen so soon, and at Lincoln Center, no less. It was a promise I kept with myself and I am so grateful for the opportunity and as a designer, so grateful to have not let myself down. And so grateful to represent my brilliant Directors, professors, and fellow students at the Academy of Art University. The experience overall was very stressful, very challenging and yet, all the more enlightening.

What were the most valuable lessons you learned while creating your collection and presenting it in New York?

Flexibility, respecting and adhering to deadlines, adaptability, and that asking questions are key. Oh! And happy accidents. Happy accidents are so precious – I learned the actual process has its own fuel and to embrace the amazing unexpected things that happen along the way. My best work probably stems from those “I think I thought I did, but what just happened? …because that looks good!” As much as I seem to function as a type A personality- which I think helped me along the way- I let myself get lost in the design process. I learned my valuable lesson of letting go. It was a special time for me. I had the freedom to revisit and analyze everything I ever loved in this great big world and everything that ever inspired me. I was able to identify myself as process-based; I had to go from A-Z, to circle back and find E. If that makes sense. We were taught the tools in school, and I relied on them to tap into what defined me as a designer. That was exciting; suddenly my habits from the past began to make sense. I knew I was exactly where I supposed to be, which was probably why I exhausted all options and opportunities throughout the program. Gonbee at one time declared I was masochistic – but I still argue that it was my time to really push myself.

I had to make a last minute change ten days before the show; it was a bit daunting at the time, but taught me the most invaluable lesson of crisis management. I had to remake six pieces in the collection – for reasons I should have reasoned through prior. But hindsight is 20/20. I would not change what I went through. Honestly, that part of the process has really helped me in the most stressful situations. I refuse to allow myself to get into this “fickle-pickle.” I now have a very calm demeanor – even more so than before – and am able to think clearly in hectic situations. I made a pact with myself that I will never let myself cry, consume copious amounts of Cheetos, and call my mom like I did that one afternoon – as I attempted to source new fabric ideas in Berkeley. Never. Will. I. Again. (Until the work is complete, of course.) I lost 3 precious hours that day that I could have used to keep moving forward. As long as I gave 110% effort, I knew I wouldn’t look back with regrets. And I don’t, which is very settling.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

In today’s Alumni Update, we take a minute to catch up with Jeremiah Perez, who graduated from the School of Fashion in 2003 with a BFA in Fashion Merchandising. After working in the fashion journalism industry in New York, he switched gears and began his career in politics. Read on to find out what he is up to now!

You graduated from the School of Fashion in 2003 with a BFA in Fashion Merchandising, and then moved to New York and worked as a freelance editor. What was that experience like?

Working in New York was fantastic. When I moved to New York I took writing classes at MediaBistro and networked like crazy to break into magazine journalism. I worked for InTouch Weekly, Glamour, MORE magazine, and was an intern for Glenda Bailey, the editor-in-chief of Harpers’ BAZAAR. Working in the editor-in-chiefs’ office was eye-opening. I learned a lot about the magazine business and the importance of relationships.

What prompted your move to the realm of politics?

I have always volunteered for non-profits since college and been politically active. I was freelancing in New York, and started Amputees in Motion – an activities based non-profit for people with limb loss. I am a below the knee amputee so I am passionate about raising awareness and helping the disabled community. Then a job opportunity in Washington, D.C. surfaced to be a national advocacy specialist for the Amputee Coalition where I worked to make sure amputees receive proper access to health care. I have been involved in politics and management consulting for years. And in 2011, I obtained my masters in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

In today’s Alumni Update, we catch up with I Shan Liou, who graduated from the School of Fashion in 2009 with an MFA in Fashion and Knitwear Design. She collaborated on her senior collection with design student Myoung Hee Kim, which debuted at New York Fashion Week for Fall 2009. Currently, I Shan lives in Los Angeles and works at the contemporary line, Patterson J. Kincaid, as a knitwear designer.

You were able to show your graduate collection at New York Fashion Week. How did you feel after the experience?

It was an amazing experience in my life and I am extremely thankful. I am so grateful to Simon [Ungless], becuase he brought me and Myoung Hee Kim together as a team. It was a stunning idea that combined knitwear and textiles. Learning how to collaborate and work with others helped me a lot when I got a job. Fashion industry is all about the team work and coordination.

As a student, you were featured in Sally Congdon-Martin’s book, Emerging Fashion Designers I – how did it feel being included in the book?

My jaw fell to the floor when Edith told me that I had been featured in Sally Congdon-Martin’s book. I still cannot believe that my work was printed and that I was labeled an “emerging designer.” I was so surprised and honored.

After graduating, what did you do?

I was doing freelance for couple of companies such as Levis and Pottery Barn for a few months. Then I moved to Los Angeles and started to work at a local private company as an assistant. After 3 months, I got a job offer from my current company.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

Erin Frederick graduated from the School of Fashion in 2010 with a B.F.A. in Fashion Merchandising. She now works at StippleIt.com, which allows brands to track their images on the internet and make them instantly shoppable. Katarina Farley caught up with Erin to gain some insight into life after graduation!

Tell me a bit about yourself.

I’m addicted to vintage: mostly fashion of course but the obsession definitely bleeds over into the furniture, music, movies, culture and celebrities… Just take my living room as exhibit A.

In addition to that, I grew up in La Jolla/Southern California, of course I love fashion… and puppies. Actually, I just got one – she’s amazing! She’s a Chug: Chihuahua/Pug mix, 4 months old and her name is Dee Dee and she likes to accessorize.

Erin’s love of vintage is revealed in her home décor.

Erin’s new puppy Dee Dee.

You’re an Academy of Art University alumna, what’s your area of expertise?

I earned a B.F.A. in Fashion Merchandising. I started out in the Fashion Design program, but after two years switched to merchandising so I could take more of the fashion business, styling and visual merchandising classes. I really enjoyed being able to focus on styling my last two years at AAU, it gave me the opportunity to work with so many amazing and talented people. It was such a good experience to collaborate with students from other Academy of Art University departments.

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

Fayrouz at the May 2011 Graduation Fashion Show

Fayrouz Abi Assi graduated from the School of Fashion in May 2011 with a M.F.A. in Fashion Design. She showed her senior collection, which was inspired by the Depression Era and lives of Arab desert dwellers, at the 2011 Graduation Fashion Show. After spending the summer traveling, finishing up school, and visiting with friends and family – she started her career right here in San Francisco. We caught up with Fayrouz to hear about life after graduation!

What was it like having your collection debut at the May 2011 Graduation Fashion Show?
Working on Senior Collection was one of the most fun experiences ever! I never went into it thinking “I’m guaranteed in”, I just really wanted to experience it and push the limit in terms of creativity and problem solving. It totally changed me; my mind now works in problem solving mode, and its so much fun!
As for debuting, proudest time ever, until something else tops it.

How did you spend your summer after graduating?
I spent my summer traveling to Lebanon, Dubai, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, also finished up my last semester at the Academy of Art University, interned at Welcome Stranger, and entertained family and friends that flew in to see me! By the time October came around, I found myself working full time at Welcome Stranger!

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

Jamie Mihlrad, 2005 MFA Fashion and Knitwear graduate, was selected by 2005 Guest of Honor Carla Sozzani for an internship in Milan that grew into Jamie becoming the sole designer responsible for the signature 10 Corso Como line of apparel and products, including collaborative projects with MAC, Converse, Diesel Jeans and Mackintosh of London. For a year, she designed the private label line as well as the signature cashmere sweaters, trench coats, handbags and various other apparel and products under the direction of Signora Sozzani. Jamie’s collaborative senior collection with textile design student Kia Faulkenberry-Lewis was shown at the first Academy of Art University Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week. A year later she later returned to New York to become an associate wovens and knitwear designer for L.A.M.B collection under the creative direction of Gwen Stefani and Zaldy Goco. She later became the designer for Ready to Wear and Soft Goods for Kate Spade, a Senior Designer at Milly New York, and is now the Design Director at Shoshanna.

What did you do when you interned for Carla Sozzani?
I moved to Milan for an internship really having no idea what was in store for me but thrilled for the opportunity to work for one of the most important women in the fashion industry. Kia and I were the first interns at 10 Corso Como so we had to pave our own way in the beginning. The boutique is a 13,000-square-foot complex, which includes the Galleria Carla Sozzani (a photography and design gallery), a bookstore (design books from all over the world), a boutique for men’s and women’s designer clothing and accessories, hard-to-find imports, and must-have luxury goods. In our office, I noticed there was a wealth of vintage bags and t-shirts, sweaters, and small accessories that Carla had accumulated over the years. Also, 10 Corso Como has a very signature logo designed by Carla’s boyfriend, the American artist Kris Ruhs. Carla gave me access to his archive of original Corso Como logo artwork, and I set to work using the vintage silhouettes as a starting point for the basic shapes of signature bags, t-shirts, and small goods, working in bits and pieces of Kris’ artwork. Customers from all over the world often make a day of experiencing the store, and Carla realized that many of these customers can’t afford the high-end product, so designing logo product at a lower price point for this customer evolved into a permanent position.

What was Carla Sozzani like?
She is incredible. Not only is she poised, intelligent and confident, she is kind, patient, and unbelievably giving. I didn’t get to work with her every day as she travels quite often to Paris, Miami, etc. so I would create 50 or 100 different versions of whatever product I was working on and then about once a week I would meet with her to edit. She has such a keen eye and knows exactly what works for her store and her customer. The most interesting thing about working with her is that she was never afraid to take risks and try new things. It was so exciting going to work every day because I never knew what I’d be working on next! One day I was co-branding a cell phone with Samsung, the next day I was at the Superga factory designing co-branded sneakers with their head designer; I got to make handbags with Ama (they make Chanel bags) and trench coats with Mackintosh of London. She decided one day that no one was making a good oversized cashmere cardigan that season, so we would! She made one phone call to the sweater factory that makes the amazing Prada cashmere cardigans, and they made ours!

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…

At the May 2006 San Francisco Graduation Fashion Show and Awards Ceremony, Ji Won Ree, B.F.A. Knitwear Design, was selected by Guest of Honor Alexander McQueen to work with him in his London studios for three months. During her internship, two of her designs ended up on the runway in McQueen’s men’s wear show.

Through McQueen, she met Jas Sehmbi and began designing knitwear for his Jas M.B. line. In 2007, Jiwon arranged for Jas to visit the School of Fashion to speak to the students. That visit also turned into a reunion of sorts as Director of the School of Fashion Simon Ungless, Alexander McQueen, and Jas were at Central Saint Martins together.

Jiwon has remained in London and today is head of knitwear at Roland Mouret.

What do you do at Roland Mouret?
I am responsible for women’s knitwear. I directly work with Roland Mouret and discuss the style of the designs with him on a regular basis. I also work closely with the women’s wear design team to ensure uniformity of design across the clothing line. I also handle production, which means liaising with the factories and travelling to countries like France, China and Italy.

How long have you been in London?
Just over 2 and a half years

Follow the jump to read more! Read more…