2013 Graduation Fashion Designers: Claudia Simoes & Alicia Karynn Teixeira

Claudia Simoes came to the Academy of Art University from Portland, Oregon and is pursuing a B.F.A. in Fashion Design. Using cotton duck, cotton poly/blend, linen/cotton blend and leather, Claudia created her collection highlighting the juxtaposition of 1960’s Japanese ikat fabrics with the same era’s American sportswear silhouettes. She collaborated with Textile Design student Alicia Karynn Teixeira.

Alicia Karynn Teixiera is a California girl. Born and raised in the Golden State, Alicia came to the Academy of Art University to pursue her B.F.A. in  Textile Design. She recently interned in the Textile Design and Color Department of BCBGMAXAZRIA, this year’s Guests of Honor, as well as won the 2013 Surtex Designext International Competition. She collaborated with Fashion Design student, Claudia Simoes, by creating a contradiction between Claudia’s crisp structured silhouettes and her abstract prints. The collection was inspired by ’60s Japanese silhouettes, traditional ikat prints, and woven cotton fabrics which Alicia combined with the feeling of Abstract Expressionism and warped ikat motifs.

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Follow the jump for more with Claudia and Alicia!

Claudia…

What is your current state of mind?

I’m kind of in a daze about this being my last semester and creating my collection. It’s a lot of work and wears you down, but I’m really grateful for the opportunity. I’m also nervous about what the future holds for my career. Right now, I’d be open to many different opportunities.

What is your greatest [style] regret?

In high school, every girl I knew had a pair of Uggs. I hated them at first, and didn’t want to buy into the trend, until I tried a pair on and realized they were so comfy (but still so, so ugly!)

What is your most treasured possession?

I treasure these beautiful, long, ivory leather gloves that my grandmother gave me. She bought them in Paris in the 1950’s and never wore them! The fingers are so long, skinny and elegant. Not like my fingers! Even though they don’t fit, I will always treasure them.

Who are your favorite [fashion] heroes in real life?

Phoebe Philo is one of my favorite designers at the moment. I really love her personal style. She is so chic and minimal. She makes it look so effortless and sexy.

Alicia…

What [item of clothing] is the greatest love of your life?

I used to work at a consignment shop and we had a Rick Owens, full length, down coat consigned for a short time. I tried it on everyday until it sold.

What is your current state of mind?

Wonderful.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I would like to have a photographic memory.

Who are your favorite [fashion] heroes in real life?

Rick Owens, Martin Margiela, and Alexander McQueen.

For more on the 2013 Graduation Fashion Show events, click here.