Zonic Kwong,BFA Fashion Design student, was born in Hong Kong and moved to San Francisco, CA, at eight years old. During her time at the Academy of Art University, she focused on Menswear Design. She is experimental in her approach to function, cuts and fabric compositions. For her senior collection she collaborated with BFA Fashion Design student Jose Dojaquez. Her inspiration stemmed from the way nomadic and tribal villagers layer their clothing, specifically the silhouette and draping that layering creates. Zonic’s collection is comprised of medium grey heather wool, nylon, hand dyed neon yellow merino wool, neon yellow polyester, and emperor blue rayon.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Zonic: Life is not all about making money, but about living the life you dreamed of. Doing what you love is what defines you living a purpose driven life.
What is your favorite memory of being in the School of Fashion?
Z: Meeting similarly driven individuals and working together towards a relatable vision of the future of fashion.
Who are your favorite [fashion] icons and why?
Z: Rick Owens, because his design and lifestyle show that he lives through his vision as a reality. He started with clothing, moving on to studio furniture and art. Everything he does contributes from his strong sense of identity.
BFA Fashion Design student José Dojaquez was born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. Prior to attending Academy of Art University, José earned an AA Fashion Design Degree from San Diego Mesa College. His technical design talents have been recognized by CFDA, and was recognized as a 2013 Overall School Finalist for CFDA Consideration. For his senior collection, he collaborated with Zonic Kwong to create a menswear collection inspired by a mix of “street basketball and Tibetan monks.” Kwong and Dojaquez used knitwear techniques to evoke a sportswear aesthetic. The collection consists of grey heather wool, nylon, hand dyed neon yellow merino wool, neon yellow polyester, and emperor blue rayon.
Which [items in your closet] do you most use?
José: My high school letterman jacket, busted-up converse (they seriously need to be retired), and a shearling sweater I found at a bargain store in Stockholm.
What is your [style] motto?
J: Be comfortable in what you’re wearing. This makes your confidence show in any situation.
What is your favorite memory of being in the School of Fashion?
J: I think it’s that moment when you realize you’re actually not that bad and you’re surrounded by supportive friends, classmates and teachers. I’ve made a lot of great friends here!
Kika Knaup, BFA Knitwear Design student, was born and raised in Tegernsee, Germany. Before attending Academy of Art University, Kika did a three year women’s tailoring apprenticeship in Germany, earned an Associate Degree in communication and marketing, and studied fashion design at San Francisco City College. In 2011, she earned the Presidential Scholarship Award at the City College of San Francisco Fashion Show. Her inspiration for her graduation collection was a combination of traditional Bavarian clothing as well as the formations of glaciers. Her collection is solely knitwear and consists of silk, cashmere, rayon, wool, and angora.
What is your [style] motto?
Kika: Layers, layers, layers!
Who are your favorite [fashion] icons and why?
K: My grandmother–she was the most amazing seamstress and designer and had an unbeatable sense for material and color.
What is your favorite memory of being in the School of Fashion?
K: I can’t choose just one – I have made a lot of good friends and share such great memories with them.
Written by Sarah Lemp
