MA Fashion design Technology Womenswear student Elly Choi is next in our Graduate Spotlight series. Elly’s final collection will be shown alongside 11 students’ at the MA Womenswear Catwalk on Thursday 19th February at 7.30pm GMT. Watch the live steam on the LCF Channel.
Image from MA Womenswear graduate Elly Choi’s final collection. Photographer: Felix Cooper, Stylist: Jeannie Annan-Lewin
LCF News: Tell us about your final collection?
Elly Choi: The title for my collection is Geek Couture, inspired by a ‘book geek’ in an old, archaic and unorganized library where she tries to find a book but falls down in a heap. I wanted this storyline to be visually expressed and understandable for the viewers, through using details such as ribbons or set-layered fabric pieces. The multiple layered cutting would be a symbol for this collection, as well as my personal favourite method. I could say that the final collection was quite satisfying in a sense that it conveyed the story and my own identity to the viewers.
LCF News: Where did you study prior to your MA at LCF?
EC: I finished my Bachelor degree at Gachon University in South Korea.
LCF News: What are your future plans?
EC: In the near future, I would like to continue my study in fashion through studying for a PhD and teach students who want to be fashion designers. I would also like to launch my own brand someday. Before I study for the doctorate course, I would like to gain more experience in the industry. Building my career in the fashion field would be meaningful and worthwhile as I would understand what’s needed from a designer/brand to be successful.
LCF News: How do you think the course will help you to realise these plans?
EC: I was able to learn how to truly communicate with people in the field and express myself more effectively. Also, the course has made me realise what my strengths and weaknesses are objectively. I believe that all the experiences I have had on the course are helpful in every step I will take in the future.
LCF News: What advice would you give to anyone considering studying an MA at LCF?
EC: I would say that an interactive attitude is essential in this course. When they have capacity to accept others’ evaluations, they have more possibilities to improve and find their own identity in their design.