After much anticipation, the day finally arrived when 2006 SHS alumnus James Fung could see his designs as well as the clothes from other designers shown proudly on the runway. From choosing models to making promotional flyers, Fung, an architecture student at the University of Washington, worked diligently for three months to finish a 10-piece collection for a fashion show that took place on Feb. 26 at the University of Washington.
Fung was first introduced to this fashion show when he completed a collection for a previous show, which was part of program to promote confidence and a healthy body image.
The main concept behind Fung’s collection is “Constrained Chaos” in which Fung changed traditional silhouettes and incorporated an idea of contradictions by pairing pieces with volume with contrasting tight pieces.
“The overall show was a lot easier than I was anticipating. I think, since it’s not my first show, I knew what to expect.,” said Fung. “But I think any production like this where you’re putting your designs out there carries a bit of stress. One thing I learned from juggling all my activities at [Saratoga High] was how to multi-task and time manage and not take everything too seriously.”
Fashion has always been something that Fung has enjoyed, but he is not sure whether he prefers it over architecture.
“There’s no doubt that I love it and have been interested in it for a majority of my teen or adult life, but I’m not sure if it’s something I want to pursue as a career. People often say do what you love, and while I love fashion, I am also strongly passionate about design and architecture. An advantage about being still so young is that I have a lot of optimism that I could do it all.”