Interview with Kaiyuan Xu from United States

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Kaiyuan Xu

Kaiyuan Xu, a Fashion Designer and Visual Artist has a master's degree in Fashion Design from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She revels in exploring various perspectives and actively pushes her creative boundaries with innovative collections.


Interview With The 2023 MUSE Design Awards Winner – Kaiyuan Xu

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.

Hello, I'm Kaiyuan Xu, a Fashion Designer and Visual Artist based in Shanghai, China. I recently completed a master's degree in Fashion Design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Throughout my academic journey, I've delved into various perspectives and expanded creative boundaries with my innovative collections.

With a background in Fashion Design and a Bachelor in Arts from Coventry University, I have developed skills in fashion illustration, sewing, drafting patterns, and design concepts. These skills have been effectively employed in diverse projects, including my recent collection 'Lusus Vase.' In this collection, I adopt a perspective rooted in biological instincts, delving into their construction. This not only highlights my inclination for pushing boundaries but also underscores my inherent curiosity, a prominent feature in my creative endeavors.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?

Coming from Shanghai, a bustling international metropolis, I've always been influenced by its contemporary atmosphere, encompassing architecture and fashion brands. This influence prompted me to pursue a major in fashion design. During my undergraduate studies in Coventry, I specialized in ready-to-wear women's clothing. Throughout the design process, I frequently undertook research expeditions to museums, drawing inspiration from diverse artworks.

After graduation, I relocated to Chicago, a vibrant city renowned for its artistic ambiance. Pursuing my master's degree at SAIC, I had the privilege of learning from accomplished artists who enhanced my visual acuity, empowered me, and fostered confidence in expressing my distinctive artistic perspective and enduring passion for the field of fashion design.

3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I am currently a freelance stylist and an independent fashion designer!
4What does “design” mean to you?
In my perspective, the term "Design" revolves around captivating the senses, stirring emotions, and seizing the attention and curiosity of the observer.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
Deconstruction, playful experimentation, and non-conformity are constants in my approach. My focus is consistently on pushing boundaries, and I believe this has wielded a notable impact on the fashion industry.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
A rule-breaker! A good design, I would say, is characterized by its ability to break rules. Such rule-breaking tendencies frequently inspire transformative change, urging the industry towards greater inclusivity, sustainability, and creativity. The innovative nature of these designs has the potential to set new trends and broaden perspectives on the possibilities within the world of fashion.
7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
I specialize in avant-garde and a dark aesthetic in fashion. My designs typically showcase futuristic and exclusive silhouettes with a touch of gothic influence. Setting my style apart is the incorporation of unconventional concepts and a dedication to crafting edgy, unique pieces.
8Tell us about your design process.
Before designing any garments, I consistently employ stencils to capture elements inspired by nature. I take patterns from my collage works, engaging in experimentation by deconstructing and reconstructing them directly on the mannequin.
9Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the MUSE Design Awards for granting me this exceptional honor. Receiving this prize is both humbling and invigorating. It goes beyond mere recognition; it fuels my determination to consistently strive for excellence and positivity in my future endeavors.
10Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

I submitted this project for the award because it resonates with my strong conviction to push boundaries and make a meaningful impact on my personal style and fashion projects. This pursuit goes beyond personal interests; it represents a dedication to innovation and thoughtful creativity. I appreciate the MUSE Design Awards for acknowledging the potential in this endeavor and for honoring the journey toward a brighter future.

11What was the biggest challenge with this project?
I consider the creative aspect and seeking inspiration to be a challenging aspect of the project. Continuously evolving one's design aesthetic can be a fulfilling yet occasionally demanding process.
12How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
Securing this award has proven to be a transformative milestone in my fashion career. It serves as validation and recognition, unlocking doors to fresh opportunities and collaborations. The exposure garnered through this accolade has broadened my industry network, connecting me with influential figures and fellow creatives who share similar perspectives.
13What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

Innovation: Innovation involves embracing creative and technological advancements to extend the limits of design and manufacturing.

Digital Transformation: Utilizing technology for online commerce and virtual fashion presentations.

Winning Entry

Lusus Vase | 2023

Lusus Vase | Kaiyuan Xu

My latest work is inspired by the concept of "Shiva" and never-ending time. The "Shiva" from MET Gallery …
(Read more at MUSE Design Awards)


Kaiyuan Xu

Kaiyuan Xu, a Fashion Designer and Visual Artist has a master's degree in Fashion Design from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She revels in exploring various perspectives and actively pushes her creative boundaries with innovative collections.


Read more about this interview with Artem Kropovinsky from the United States, the Gold Winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards.

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