The winner of season two of Project Runway, Chloe Dao has since turned herself in to a powerhouse designer, heading up not only her own high-end collection called Dao Chloe Dao, but also a line for QVC named Simply Chloe Dao and a group of bags for Nuo Tech.
Chloe slowed down for a second to give her advice about the fashion business, so here is my interview with fashion designer Chloe Dao:
Chloe slowed down for a second to give her advice about the fashion business, so here is my interview with fashion designer Chloe Dao:
How did you decide to become a fashion designer?
Photo courtesy of Chloe Dao.
Chloe: I always wanted to be a designer, but I did not think it was possible until I saw the movie Dead Poets Society. That movie really inspired me to follow my dream. I truly feel this field chose me instead of me choosing it. I think this is what I am really meant to do.
Do you have any advice for teens that would like to follow your career path?
Make sure you love doing this more than anything in the world. It is not a glamorous career. If you like constant pressure, then this is for you. If so, study the craft, work hard at it and pay your dues. Love and passion does not always equate to success, you will also need lots of tears, sweat and a bit of luck.What advice would you give teens about finding their own style?
It is important to not care about what other people think. I know it is hard but this is the time in your life when you can really experiment. From middle to high school, my style went from Madonna-obsessed to New Wave to Rocker all in few years. This is the only way to find your style. Be fearless.What are two pieces that you think every teen girl should have in her wardrobe?
For a teen, of course, a perfect pair of slim cut dark denim jeans with no rips, dyes or bedazzling. This goes with everything! The jeans can go from Goth to classic All-American, depending on the top.I am also loving a big basic neutral scarf right now. It's perfect because it has so many uses. Wear it around your neck with jeans during the day and wear it around your shoulders in the evening to keep you warm. If you really know how to wrap it, it can be fashioned into a top or dress even.