We recently connected with Yuan Tian and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Yuan, so happy to have you on the platform with us today and excited to chat about your lessons and insights. Our ability to make good decisions can massively impact our lives, careers and relationships and so it would be very helpful to hear about how you built your decision-making skills.
I’ve improved my decision-making abilities through a combination of experience and deliberate effort. One critical component is learning from both achievements and failures. Reflecting on previous decisions, analyzing the outcomes, and recognizing areas for improvement has helped me enhance my judgment.
When making a decision, I deliberately seek out different points of view. Collaborating with team members, soliciting feedback from stakeholders, and considering other perspectives enable me to make better-informed decisions. This collaborative approach increases decision-making quality while also instilling a sense of shared accountability.
I also appreciate lifelong learning. Keeping up with industry developments, learning about best practices, and attending relevant workshops or training programs have been critical. This constant education allows me to make judgments based on the most current information and adapt to changing conditions.
Finally, I am not afraid to take measured chances. I understand that not every option will result in a favorable outcome, but by carefully weighing the risks and potential rewards, I’ve been able to make bold judgments that have helped lead to successful outcomes.
To summarize, my decision-making abilities have improved as a result of learning from experience, seeking varied perspectives, ongoing learning, and being willing to take measured risks.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Beginning the wonderful adventure of being a costume designer has been more than a career choice for me—it’s a profound passion that has carefully weaved its threads through the very fabric of my existence from my infancy. During those formative years, I developed an intense passion with the art of sketching and design, which became the foundation of a lifetime study of creativity and self-expression.
Choosing the route of an art student was more than a decision; it was a daring leap into the limitless domain of imagination. Taking the college admission exam was a fantastic experience that I bravely pursued throughout my high school career. It was more than just a test; it was an entryway into the coveted world of art institutions. The stress of the competition drove my ambition, and I won, obtaining a spot at a prestigious art college that would serve as the canvas for me to paint my aspirations.
As I entered university, my interest in design grew more focused and sophisticated, particularly in the exciting world of fashion design. The university years were a pivotal period in my life, during which I learned about the minute subtleties and dynamic trends of the fashion industry. This transition signified an intentional decision to investigate the relationship between artistry and usefulness in the world of apparel design.
Following my undergraduate education, I began on a hands-on journey to further my knowledge of the sector. Stepping into the role of design assistant for a transformative year, I became engaged in the practicalities that drive the fashion industry. This experience served as a crucible, not just highlighting my artistic abilities but also reflecting on areas where I needed to grow and refine my skills.
Real-world design issues taught me crucial lessons that textbooks couldn’t. The challenges of the industry were both exhilarating and humbling, forcing me to integrate theoretical knowledge into real, imaginative solutions. This hands-on experience allowed me to watch a design’s life cycle from conception to creation while navigating the complex environment of manufacturing timetables and client expectations.
Motivated by an insatiable curiosity and a burning desire to dig into the deep nuances of fashion design processes and theory, I jumped at the chance to continue my study at the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). This part of my scholastic journey proved to be a transforming and fascinating experience, as I submerged myself in a world of creativity and innovation.
During my time at SCAD, I did more than just attend classes; I actively shaped my own educational experience. Driven by a desire to push boundaries and explore the avant-garde, I independently planned and meticulously completed four intriguing fashion design projects. These projects were more than just academic exercises; they were active canvases on which I painted my stories, weaving together threads of inspiration, technique, and individual expression.
Each project became a voyage into the depths of my own creative brain, as I investigated themes and notions that spoke to my artistic sensibilities. These were more than just designs; they were expressions of my changing style, expressing the layers of my identity and the inspirations that influenced my outlook on fashion. From concept to execution, I put my heart and soul into every stitch, texture, and silhouette.
Clothing, to me, transcends the mundane; it is a potent and evocative medium through which I articulate my voice, sentiments, and the narratives that shape my worldview. Each of the four projects I undertook at SCAD became not just creative endeavors but vessels for expressing profound ideas, emotions, and stories that resonate deeply with me.
In my initial project, I embarked on a poignant exploration of the nuanced influence of adults on the impressionable minds of children. Through the language of fashion design, I sought to capture the subtleties of this relationship, using garments as a canvas to depict the impact of adults on the formation of a child’s identity. The project became a visual narrative, inviting viewers to contemplate the power dynamics and complexities inherent in this influential connection.
The second project delved into themes of self-preservation and self-love, weaving a narrative of personal empowerment through the language of fashion. Here, clothing became a tool for self-expression and celebration of individuality. Each design encapsulated the journey towards self-love, inspiring wearers to embrace their unique identities and find strength in their authenticity. It was a celebration of resilience and self-discovery communicated through the medium of fashion.
The third project unfolded as a homage to the untold stories of female artists. With a sensitive and artful touch, I navigated through their dilemmas and hardships, using garments to convey the strength, vulnerability, and creativity of these unsung heroines. Each piece became a tribute to the resilience of women in the face of societal challenges, allowing their stories to be heard and felt through the language of fashion.
Lastly, in the fourth project, I embarked on a fascinating exploration of the intersection between tradition and modernity. Here, I breathed life into the fashionization of traditional crafts, seamlessly blending age-old techniques with contemporary aesthetics. This project was a celebration of cultural heritage, demonstrating that traditions can evolve and find relevance in the modern world through the transformative power of fashion.
These projects went beyond the confines of traditional assignments; they were expressions of my artistic philosophy and an exploration of the uncharted territories within fashion design. I embraced challenges as opportunities for innovation, experimenting with materials, techniques, and unconventional concepts. This process of independent creation fostered a sense of ownership and self-discovery that went beyond the classroom.
As I stand on the precipice of a new chapter following my recent graduation, there’s an undeniable surge of fervent determination propelling me forward. I am on the cusp of a transformative journey, preparing to establish not just a studio but a sanctuary for creativity—a haven where my artistic vision takes flight. This marks the genesis of my personal studio and design brand, an endeavor fueled by a burning passion to impart the world with my distinctive creative essence.
The studio I envision is more than a physical space; it’s an atelier where imagination dances with fabric, where every stroke of the design process becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of my artistic identity. It’s a space where ideas are not merely conceived but nurtured into existence. In this sanctuary, the alchemy of design will unfold, and each creation will carry the imprints of my journey, values, and the stories I long to tell through the language of fashion.
Beyond establishing a studio, I am embarking on the noble task of crafting a design brand that goes beyond the conventional notions of fashion. My brand is a testament to authenticity, storytelling, and the transformative power of artistry. It’s not just about garments; it’s about weaving tales, creating an emotional resonance that transcends the boundaries of mere clothing. Every design becomes a vessel, carrying narratives and sentiments that have the power to connect with a diverse audience on a profound level.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have been particularly impactful.
The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and bounce back from setbacks has been crucial. The journey is filled with unexpected challenges, and resilience is the key to overcoming them. Embrace change with an open mind. View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Cultivate a mindset that sees setbacks as temporary and uses them as stepping stones toward improvement.
The fashion industry is dynamic and ever-evolving. Continuous learning and a curious mindset have allowed me to stay updated on trends, techniques, and innovations, keeping my skills relevant. Never stop learning. Stay curious about emerging trends, attend workshops, and explore new techniques. Seek inspiration from diverse sources, and approach each project as an opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills.
The ability to communicate ideas effectively and collaborate with diverse teams has been instrumental. Fashion design is not just about individual creativity; it often involves working with others to bring a vision to life. Hone your communication skills, both verbal and visual. Learn to articulate your ideas clearly and be open to feedback. Collaborate with peers, mentors, and professionals to gain insights and perspectives that enrich your work.
Connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and insights. Mentorship can accelerate your learning and provide valuable perspectives on the industry.
Attend industry events, join online forums, and network with peers. Building a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and valuable connections.
Don’t fear criticism; instead, see it as a tool for improvement. Constructive feedback can highlight areas for growth and refinement in your work.
he journey in the fashion industry can be demanding, but passion is a powerful driving force. Cultivate and nurture your passion for design, as it will fuel your commitment and perseverance in the face of challenges.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
At this juncture in my career, the primary challenge I’m navigating revolves around establishing a robust online presence and effectively marketing my personal design brand. In an era where digital platforms play a pivotal role in the fashion industry, creating a compelling online identity and reaching a broad audience presents a unique set of challenges.
To address this obstacle, I’ve undertaken a comprehensive strategy to enhance my digital presence. This involves optimizing my website to showcase my portfolio, leveraging social media platforms to engage with a wider audience, and exploring e-commerce avenues to make my designs accessible to a global market. Additionally, I am investing time in learning digital marketing strategies and staying abreast of the latest trends in online brand promotion.
Networking within the digital landscape has also become a key focus. Collaborating with influencers, participating in virtual fashion events, and establishing partnerships with online retailers are avenues I’m actively exploring to amplify the visibility of my brand.
In essence, the challenge lies in navigating the intricacies of the online fashion space, and my approach involves a blend of digital marketing, strategic partnerships, and continual adaptation to emerging trends. By embracing these strategies, I aim to overcome this obstacle and establish a strong and resonant digital presence for my personal design brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yuantian00fashion.framer.website/
- Instagram: ja.de4610
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuan-tian-364778258/
Image Credits
Photographer: Lyco Yan, Beibei, Shishan Model: Parker Asel, Aviana DiPasquale, Tara Marii, Xinzhe Zhang
