Kevin Christiana, Project Runway Season 4 alum, studied at New York City's Fashion Institute of Technology, where he won the "Menswear Designer of the Year" grant. He currently lives in New York City where he's working on a new show idea, designing his new collections and doing some cooking.Kevin, can you share a little bit about yourself and how you got started?
I was a theater major at Ramapo College, which led to set design and costume design. My cousin Susana Monaco started her own label in 1997. I asked her if I can intern so I could learn how to make clothes. She said yes and ever since I stepped in her design room, I knew that I wanted to be a Fashion Designer. I transferred to FIT an that was all she wrote!
Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
I draw most of my inspiration from people watching. Especially In NYC. People dress very well here! (don't get me wrong some people dress like hot messes), but a lot of New Yorkers do dress well. Also the city of New York inspires me, especially the architecture and European style of the old buildings. For example the hand carved statues, moldings,
railings, doors etc...... I love the sleakness of the skyscrapers. It looks very tailored with an edge. This is how I design my clothing.
Describe your best selling items or favorite experience with your profession?
My best selling items are usually my Jackets, dresses, and Jeans. I had a velvet flocked jean in my first denim collection that flew off the shelves! Hopefully I will sell a bunch of my items this fall. Keeping my fingers crossed!
My favorite and most bizarre experience was obviously Project Runway. Wow, it changes your life! One day nobody knows you, then there' s instant recognition. No one understands unless they've been through it.
What are your plans for the future?Take over the world by way of Fashion! I am launching a men's lifestyle brand called MYNT 1792 and Women's collection called Christiana Zinn which targets women of all sizes. Oh yeah Jack Mackenroth and I pitched our own show idea and we got picked up by a production company. We are pitching networks as we speak. I also plan on making tomato sauce with my friend David Aldea, jarring and selling it! I'm not kidding! (god I'm such an Italian!)
Visit http://www.myspace.com/kevinchristiana. His new website www.mynt1792.com will be launching soon.
Beth Anderson is the Editor in Chief of Chic Galleria.com and Co-Owner of Chic Galleria Publications.
Awesome interview Beth!! That's awesome that Kevin created a fashion line for women of all sizes. I'll have to check it out; I was def. a fan of his during the season he was on =)