Meet Kui Long | Fashion designer & Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kui Long and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kui, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from China and have been in the US since 2019. I’m a fashion designer with a diverse background. I have been interested in fashion design for years since junior high school. It started with watching Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model. When I saw the models walking on the runway with extraordinary garments on them, I could not help thinking, “what if they put on my designs.”

Officially working for my dream began in high school. I joined the school’s fashion design association. I decided to study Fashion Design as my college major. However, the universities I applied to only admitted arts students, but I was a science student then. So I had to choose industrial design as a substitute.

Admittedly, my learning experience in industrial design at the South China University of Technology did not go off track. Instead, I have studied various courses I believe in fundamental meanings. Regardless of the stressful on-campus learning, I learned fashion design in my leisure time. I went to manufacturing factories, textile suppliers, and also institutions to deepen my skills. This extra learning makes me no longer the girl who just flips through Vogue and goes over Instagram posts to follow the fashion bloggers’ trends. I start to shape my own style and do my portfolio.

After graduation, I came to the US to study fashion design at SCAD, where I finally got a chance to learn fashion design thoroughly. My educational journey at SCAD has paved the way for my dreams. Not only did I learn about basic techniques in designing and making garments, but I have also been more and more professional in combining my concepts with the trends. After 3 years of study, my graduation collection was selected to be one of the finalists for the SCAD runway show. I have finally seen my childhood dream come true for the first time. I was really proud of myself.

Although my biggest passion is to be a fashion designer, after completing my degree, I still feel like there’s something missing. I realized that although I’ve got the understanding of making garments and trained my aesthetic eyes, I need to understand how brands in the industry manage their business and how the industry works. As a result, I applied for a graduate program in Luxury and Brand Management, which is what I’m studying right now. I believe the business and design aspects of the fashion industry will be contributed to each other.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My background is what makes me different, yet it also presented hurdles that required me to navigate a winding journey toward my ultimate dream. Initially, I found myself studying industrial design in college due to certain policy reasons, which didn’t align with my true passion. It was a challenging period as I yearned to learn fashion design in a formal setting, envying those who had the opportunity to do so. Despite feeling dissatisfied with my situation, I persisted and took it upon myself to learn fashion design independently. Over time, I began to realize that my diverse background was a strength, not a setback. I discovered that everything I had learned, even in industrial design, was not in vain. I am grateful for the knowledge imparted during my time in the industrial design program, and I have ingeniously incorporated elements of it into my fashion design journey. I take pride in my unwavering determination to never give up on my dream, and I have created collections that have garnered appreciation from others, turning my unique story into a source of inspiration and innovation.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my friend visits me in the city, I would begin by taking them to the various buildings and museums of my school. It’s a perfect opportunity to showcase the incredible designs crafted by talented artists. We would immerse ourselves in the captivating world of creativity, marveling at the ingenuity and artistic prowess on display. After exploring the artistic haven of my school, I would guide my friend through the city itself, as Savannah is a treasure trove of tourist attractions. The historical architecture adorning the streets exudes a timeless beauty that never fails to captivate. We would stroll along the cobblestone paths, admiring the classic charm that Savannah exudes at every turn. To add a touch of natural serenity to our itinerary, I would make sure to take my friend to Tybee Island. This beloved beach destination offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, allowing us to soak in the sun, relish the ocean breeze, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of a breathtaking sunset. To top it all off, we would indulge in delicious seafood, savoring the flavors of the coastal region while cherishing the moments spent in each other’s company.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I am incredibly grateful for the invaluable experiences and opportunities that my college, SCAD, has provided me throughout my journey in fashion design and brand management. SCAD has not only equipped me with a comprehensive education but has also played a pivotal role in shaping my identity and nurturing my passion for the fashion industry. From the knowledgeable faculty who shared their expertise to the stimulating coursework that deepened my understanding, SCAD has been instrumental in honing my skills and fostering my creativity. Moreover, the diverse range of projects I undertook during my time at SCAD allowed me to express my unique personality and showcase my abilities, contributing to my growth as a designer.

Additionally, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my parents for their unwavering support. They have been my pillars of strength, always encouraging me to pursue my dreams and standing by my side when I needed them the most. Their belief in my abilities and their continuous encouragement have propelled me forward, instilling in me the determination to overcome challenges and strive for excellence. I am forever grateful for their love, guidance, and the sacrifices they have made to help me pursue my passion in the fashion industry. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in my journey, and I am eternally thankful for their presence in my life.

Website: https://ashleylong1224.wixsite.com/kuilong

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kui-long/