MODA Designer Profile: Kiki Apple
My name is Caroline Apple, but I go by Kiki. I am a second year majoring in Computer Science and Visual Arts. This is my second year designing for the show. I love anything art and fashion related, but I also totally geek out over data structures and AI. I cannot wait to see our show this year; I'm super excited.
What are your sources of inspiration?
My collection takes inspiration from trends in Argentine fashion. Most of my style in general is inspired by Argentine fashion, but my collection particularly this year and last year are very influenced by the trends I see popping up down there. I am also very fascinated by cows and all of my pieces involve some kind of cow print.
Mood Board
What is your design process like?
I look at pictures of cows and study their spots. Then, I pick the ones I want, and I make a dress that contains those prints. I also scroll endlessly through pinterest.
Has quarantine changed the way you design/process?
No, not really because I would research Argentine fashion trends online anyway and talk to my friends via Whatsapp, so that has not been affected by the pandemic.
Who do you imagine wearing your clothes?
Me.
If you could give yourself any advice on the design process, what would you say to your younger self?
Start making the clothes earlier because you always are stressed right before the show.
What’s your favorite aspect of designing?
Drawing the cow spots hehehe.
How is your collection this year different from the last?
Last year’s collection took from a few different Argentine fashion trends such as mesh, sparkles, or faux leather. I made one dress in particular that had major sexy cow vibes, and it was by far the most fun and unique piece to make out of the collection. So, I decided to stick with cows for this year's new collection as the primary cohesive quality between the looks.
What are you hoping to portray through your collection?
There are a lot of things I want to portray in my collection. I think the first would be that cows are extremely beautiful animals, and the second would be my critique of the cattle industry (which I do not support). Honestly though, I just like making cool fun clothes that express who I am.
Imagines provided by Kiki Apple. Thumbnail by Vivian Li
