Vancouver Fashion Week S/S 21 - Interview With Designer Jordan Kendrick of JK Designs

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JK Designs - Showing on Saturday, October 24th - 

Description -

"I express myself through art, music, and crafts. My inquisitive nature drives me to research culture, history and science every single day.

I pursued a career in the apparel industry because I love working with my hands and sculpting with fabric. Through my studies, I realized that apparel design involved much more than fashion and trends; it is the perfect way to balance creativity and the need for intellectual stimulation.

When I am inspired, the design process is exciting. Sketching ideas inspires more ideas, textile selection drives design solution, and product development from patterning to construction feeds a greater understanding of possibilities. With every finished product, I achieve a greater understanding of myself and how to solve problems and arrive at a solution.

As an apparel designer, it is imperative that I understand what people want and what they need. I am service oriented and committed to quality craftsmanship and long-lasting wear for the consumer."

VFW Bio - 

From a young age, Jordan Kendrick knew she was meant to express herself with her unique point of view thru creative expression. She received a Bachelor’s in Apparel Design from the Art Institute of Portland and hit the ground running on something she could call her own. She recognized the demand for clothing that is produced in a way that is unique, and sustainable.
The approach to her eponymous label is creating made-to-measure clothing with universally flattering silhouettes that withstand the test of time.

Interview - 

Please share with readers a bit of your journey to fashion. Was it a dream from a young girl or something that came later in life? 

As a child I was obsessed with shopping at thrift stores. I would get clothes and cut them up and make them into something new. I definitely loved to experiment with looks and aesthetics. In general I felt at home expressing myself through art, music and fashion. I was happiest when I could express myself creatively.

I’ve spent most of my adult life working in the culinary and hospitality industry. When I became a single mom, I decided that I needed to pursue a career in fashion because it had always been a dream of mine, and I wanted that to be a good example for my daughter that she could chase her dreams too.

 
Where did you study fashion or, if self-taught, how did you gain your professional skills?

I was mostly self taught. I was a high school dropout. As a single mom in my 30’s I put myself through college and graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Apparel Design from the Art Institute of Portland in 2017. 

How would you describe your design style - the fashions you create. Who do you see as your customer, the woman you design for?

My design aesthetic is luxury casual. I create timeless wardrobe staples from fine European textiles. The fabrics I use are limited in quantity so I utilize made to measure tailoring. I focus on creating silhouettes that are flattering for all body types.


When you begin a new collection, where do you find inspiration? What comes easy for you as a designer? What is a challenge? 

I find inspiration from art, music, moments in history. Sometimes it’s a mood or a vibe. 
What comes easily for me as a designer is seeing the potential fabrics, color/print directions. My challenge is having enough hours in the day. I look forward to a time when I can completely focus on designing.

Readers would love to hear about your SS21 collection you'll be showing on the 25th. What was the inspiration? What can they expect to see? 

My collection “artschool girlfriend” is a vibe on creative ladies and influencers with a professional Pacific Northwest street vibe. Painterly print and silky silhouettes that feel elevated and approachable for everyday wear.

Links - 
In response to COVID restrictions, Vancouver Fashion Week S/S 21 will be offered as a FREE online event on October 24th and 25th. October 24th debut their latest collections on the runway via live stream video. Then on October 25th VFW will stream a series of International fashion films from a number of designers from all over the world. To view these shows, go to the Vancouver Fashion Week Live channel on Vancouver Fashion Week’s official website or to their official Instagram account - @vanfashionweek. These virtual events will bring incredible Canadian and International fashion and artistry into homes across the globe.

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