DI: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
: I designed a neckline loop system for dresses and tops, to be able to transform and personalise the look of an outfit with silk accessories. I was inspired by the opportunity of creating a variety of looks with just a few statement accessories.
DI: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?
: Creating a variety of looks with one well designed capsule wardrobe.
DI: What are your future plans for this award winning design?
: To market the design worldwide.
DI: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?
: About six months.
DI: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?
: This is my own design, after travelling with limited space I was inspired by the opportunity of creating a variety of looks with just a few items of clothing and accessories, as well as showing off scarf prints in a new way.
DI: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?
: The design is used by my own company, I intend on continuing this.
DI: What made you design this particular type of work?
: I enjoy creating silkscreen art that can be worn in different ways. Art is a form of self expression, as is fashion and I wanted to merge this concept.
DI: Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?
: Coco Chanel's Little Black Dress.
DI: Who is the target customer for his design?
: Women of all shapes and sizes, who like statement silk scarves and accessories.
DI: What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?
: It is elegant, understated and versatile.
DI: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?
: The Ava because the name is elegant and easy to remember.
DI: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?
: I worked with a pattern cutter.
DI: What is the most unique aspect of your design?
: It's versatility.
DI: Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?
: I worked with a free-lance pattern cutter.
DI: Is your design influenced by data or analytical research in any way? What kind of research did you conduct for making this design?
: There is a trend towards ethical, ecological and sustainable (slow) fashion which I am aware of.
DI: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?
: I wanted to create a tunic dress that would be suitable for women of all shapes and sizes.
DI: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?
: I was approached to submit my designs as they are perceived to be innovative, when I researched the earlier A' Design Competitions, I felt that I would fit in.
DI: What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?
: I learned how important high quality fabric is in creating a "timeless" design.