Lin “Ekko” Shi – Senior Thesis Project 2024

Lin “Ekko” Shi,
B.F.A. Fashion Design
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In the Flames of Creativity

Hard work and perseverance are tools many fashion designers have but taking risks and creating that element of surprise is a tool only the best have. Lin “Ekko” Shi is someone who invests every minute of their time to perfect their collection. The B.F.A. Fashion Design student is determined to make his mark in the fashion industry.

“I’m excited to finally be able to take part in the Spring Fashion Show as I have attended it for many years and have admired the designs,” shared Shi.

Originally from Beijing, China, Shi discovered Academy of Art University when visiting a friend in San Francisco in 2017. He applied for a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and began his academic journey in 2019. “The past four years have just flown by,” said Shi.

 The concept behind his collection was the element of fire. Fire has significance for Shi due to an experience he had as a young child. The memory has made him want to spread awareness about the dangers of fire and the importance of prevention.

 “The vision for the individual garments is to extract various elements of flames, smoke, and changes during the fire expansion and reduction stages,” he explained.

For his collection, Manteco, a fabric company from Italy—a contact he made through one of his instructors—offered Shi the opportunity to use their various fabrics. His color vision of a fire, which he wants to show not only in his garments but also in the choice of socks and hairstyle to enhance this.

Following graduation, Shi would love to remain in San Francisco and design a streetwear brand. He has a passion for oversized clothing and statement hoodies that elevate one’s outfit. inspirations come from the vision of a fire, which he wants to show not only in his garments but also in the choice of socks and hairstyle to enhance this. Following graduation, Shi would love to remain in San Francisco and design a streetwear brand. He has a passion for oversized clothing and statement hoodies that elevate one’s outfit.

 Lin “Ekko” Shi’s fabric was sponsored by Manteco®, a leading Italian company for premium textiles and circularity since 1943.

Words by Georgie Parr, B.F.A. Fashion Communication and Styling