Who: Alexis Liu
When: Today
What: Whimsical aspects
Where Now: Pratt Institute, New York
Why: Because Fabwick is a fan…

Fabwick (F) Alexis (A)

F: How are you today?
A: Pretty well, thanks.

F: How is it going back to school after having a career in the fashion industry – and giving up your income?
A: Having no steady income is tough, probably the hardest part. And I do miss the creative energy and people where I used to work. But so far, I’m really enjoying school. It’s tons of work and I’m completely exhausted at the end of every day, but it’s incredibly fulfilling to be constantly learning, creating, and pushing myself in ways I never have before. When I had a full time job, I always did my little projects on the side, and now I love that I can devote all my time to that.

F: For how long did you work for Comme des Garçons?
A: Six years, seven including my internship.

F: What’s your closet like?
A: A lot of black everything, a lot of white shirts, a lot of grey
sweaters, denim, floral prints…

F: Who’s your favorite fashion designer?
A: That’s an obvious one – Rei Kawakubo… She truly is in a league of her own.

F: Why industrial design?
A: Industrial design is more subtle than other design fields in the sense that the average person barely thinks about how or why something like a toaster or coffee cup lid, which is used everyday, is made the way it is, yet it is very powerful in the sense it has potential to influence our habits and subsequently how we live.

F: What’s your personal style all about?
A: I alternate between dressing like a teenage boy and a teenage girl. Men’s cardigans, oversize shirts, white Vans.. When I dress up a bit more, its usually something CdG (Comme des Garçons). Now that it’s getting cold, I love snuggly stuff – Cowichan knits, Junya Watanabe puffer jackets, flannels, good socks.
F: Your necklaces and design are very whimsical – are you always in a good mood?
A: Haha. Yes, I’m drawn to designs that sort of wink at you, but no, I definitely have some grumpy moments, especially when I’m hungry, or really tired. Kind of like a baby.

F: Your bio on your website – What’s with the bear and fruit?
A: I’ve always loved the teddy bear, its one of the most classic
toys. And fruit because of the colors and built-in packaging.

F: Where can your design be purchased?
A: Some pictures are on www.alexisliu.com, but to order send an email to info@alexisliu.com. I can customize pieces if you have a certain color palette in mind.