Darling Designer Profile: Minna Kao, craft: by annica

My craft is designing.
Anicca means “impermanence.”
In my eyes, Life is always in motion, which reminds me to follow my passion.
Remember to always follow your craft.

Darlings: How did you first get involved in fashion design or the fashion world in general?
Minna: I became involved in the fashion world when I was 19 years old. I switched my major from Advertising to Textiles and Apparel at UT Austin. I took it a step further by pursuing fashion in Paris and at Parsons School of Design in New York. After Paris, my entire perception of fashion changed. In Paris I was able to experience the world of couture and apprentice under some great designers.

Darlings: Tell us about your transition from bridal to eveningwear, and what direction your latest collection is headed.
Minna: Bridal remains, however additional pieces have been added for eveningwear. For my Fall collection, the eveningwear is made of silk charmeuse, taffeta, and duchess satin. Classic silhouettes with a modern edge.

Darlings: What is a day in the life of Minna K like?
Minna: I don’t even know how to describe it! Well, it’s busy, but great. Sometimes I’ll be sewing, making patterns, or working with sewers or pattern makers, or I’ll be sketching, sourcing fabrics, and finding inspiration. The top image shows the studio during a photo shoot of the dresses for Craft:by Anicca.

Darlings: What inspires your designs?
Minna: For this collection, movement vs. structure. My favorite designer is Vionnet, so my bridal collection predominately has fluid fabrics, some Grecian inspired.

Darlings: Are you getting ready for any upcoming events?
Minna: Yes, because of your invite to the Nolcha/PRCouture soiree, I met Tom McAlister from Brooklyn Fashion Festival, in turn he introduced me to Oriana, the market editor for Nolcha. I am doing the evening collective at Nolcha Fashion Week on Sept. 16th.

Darlings: What is the hardest obstacle you face as an independent designer? Where do you find the most support and resources?
Minna: Most difficult: Financing. Most support: New York. It’s just full of both support and resources.