The Bond that Connects Us
Taking bold steps toward a dream is empowering and requires self-confidence. BFA Fashion Designer Kira Chen made a significant career change, transitioning from a focus on Science in English to pursuing her passion for Fashion Design. Her passion for fashion ignited long ago when she began redesigning her clothes and learning design skills through YouTube tutorials. In 2020, she decided to follow her dream at the Academy of Art University. Now, she is working towards completing her BFA Fashion Design degree this Spring of 2025.
Growing up, building relationships, and making connections were the most important aspects of Chen’s life. Born in Castro Valley, she was raised in a family that emphasized the significance of connection. Her final collection is inspired by Hong Kong film director Wong Kar-Wai’s Love Trilogy and the concept of “Kizuna,” which translates to “the bond that connects us.” In an interview, Chen expressed, “Through my collection, I hope to showcase the raw emotions that arise from connecting with others and building relationships as we grow.” She drew key inspiration from the films, as she felt deeply moved by the main characters and felt a parallel connection to their lives.
To express her feelings through her garments, she primarily uses red and black colors to symbolize femininity and love, incorporating materials such as satin, velvet, jersey, silk dupioni, and repurposed plastic bags. The focus of her project is eco-consciousness and sustainability, which she effectively brought to life by transforming takeout and grocery bags. To stay true to her theme of connection, she also collected plastic bags from local neighborhoods to use as material for her collection. She received substantial support from others, which mirrored the bonds formed through shared experiences. She pressed these bags together to create sheets with varying densities. Chen noted, “This textile came to fruition because food has always been the primary way my family has expressed love and care for one another, and takeout and grocery bags are the carriers of this form of love. Pressing and melting the bags together creates a stronger sheet, which I wanted to represent.” Her garments symbolize confidence and self-assurance, showcasing skin and fostering a connection to others.
Her design skills flourished while she studied at the Academy, where she gained valuable knowledge from her instructors. She aspires to effectively utilize her skills and share her talent by helping a smaller, environmentally conscious company, which will also provide her with further insight into the industry. Additionally, Chen is seeking a job in virtual pattern making and design, with the long-term goal of starting her brand.
Words by Anudari Tuvshintuya, B.F.A. Fashion Communication and Styling
Runway photography by Ed Jay.
Conceptual Makeup Lead: Chelsea Mari Heintzman. Hair & Makeup Team Produced by Brandi Moore Agency. Lead Hair: Brittany Jordan. Lead Makeup: Lilia Christo-Ferrigno . Makeup Product: Morphe.
