We were lucky to catch up with Qi Yun recently and have shared our conversation below.
Qi, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
I believe my resilience comes from a combination of my cultural heritage and personal experiences. Growing up with a deep connection to traditional Chinese philosophy, like simplicity and acceptance of imperfection, has shaped my perspective on overcoming challenges. That, coupled with my journey as a designer—facing the ups and downs of building my own brand and working in a highly competitive industry—has taught me to stay grounded, adapt, and keep pushing forward no matter the obstacles. Every setback is an opportunity to grow, and that mindset drives my resilience.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Here’s a draft for your response:
I am a fashion designer and the founder of my own luxury womenswear brand, Qi Yun. My work is deeply inspired by the fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics, with a focus on creating timeless, high-quality pieces that bridge cultural influences. My designs embody the elegance of traditional Chinese art forms, such as calligraphy and Zen philosophy, while also incorporating modern, minimalist elements from Western fashion. This unique blend creates a sense of balance, sophistication, and tranquility in every collection I produce.
What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to tell a story through fashion—each collection is an expression of my cultural heritage, and I aim to create garments that not only look beautiful but also resonate with a deeper meaning. I want my designs to inspire women to feel empowered, elegant, and connected to something timeless.
Currently, I’m focused on growing my brand, Qi Yun, and preparing for an exciting product launch—my first collection, which will debut soon. I’m also working on a signature accessory line, including a unique bag collection shaped like fortune cookies, which will bring an element of playful sophistication to the brand. Additionally, I am planning a few pop-up events and collaborations to introduce my designs to a broader audience.
Stay tuned for more, and feel free to follow along with my journey on Instagram at @qiyunnyc!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Resilience has been essential in the highly competitive fashion industry. There are constant challenges, whether it’s facing rejection, navigating setbacks, or pushing through long hours to perfect a collection. My advice to anyone starting out is to build resilience by embracing failure as a learning tool. Every “no” is a step closer to a “yes,” and each setback teaches you how to grow stronger.
Creativity is the heart of any designer’s work. Staying curious, experimenting, and stepping outside of your comfort zone is crucial to developing your creative voice. I would suggest that aspiring designers constantly seek inspiration from a wide range of sources—art, nature, cultures, and even personal experiences. This keeps your work fresh and evolving.
Lastly, attention to detail is what sets good design apart from great design. Whether it’s the construction of a garment or the finishing touches, small details make a big impact. To develop this skill, I recommend focusing on craftsmanship and always seeking to refine your techniques. Pay attention to how clothes are made, understand fabrics, and don’t rush the process. Perfection is in the details.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I’m always open to partnerships and collaborations, especially with those who share a passion for fashion, art, and culture. I’m particularly interested in collaborating with artists, photographers, stylists, and other designers who want to explore the fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics, as well as manufacturers and fabric experts who are skilled in high-quality, sustainable materials.
I’m also keen to connect with brands and organizations that align with my vision of creating elegant, meaningful pieces that stand the test of time. Whether it’s a creative project, a collaborative collection, or an event, I’m excited to work with like-minded individuals and teams.
If you’re interested in collaborating, feel free to reach out to me via email at qiyunnyc@gmail.com or connect with me on Instagram at @qiyunnyc. I’d love to explore the possibilities together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.qiyunnyc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qiyunnyc/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qiyun/
Image Credits
Fashion Institute of Technology
Fashion Design MFA Graduation NYFW Show
Designer: Qi Yun
Look 1-5
Model: Dallas Sbar, Holly Reyes, Ama Ganah, Fisher Burney, Ashley Tobias
Makeup & Hair team: @bymarcellocosta
Nails: @jinsoon
Photo: Paolo Lanzi / Gorunway.com
Cr: Vogue Runway
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
