Apparel | Wednesday, September 14, 2011

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THE WINNER: An interview with Jusil Carroll

By Greg Wang

NEW YORK—Jusil Carroll’s winning collection in last week’s runway finale of the fourth annual Supima Design Competition continues to attract posts on fashion sites like Temple of Glam, Addikted2Fashion, FashionWindows, and Fashionetc.

Here, an interview with Carroll on Runway Passport:

RUNWAY PASSPORT: WHERE DID YOU GO TO DESIGN SCHOOL?
Jusil Carroll: I attended The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

RP: HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT AND ENTER SUPIMA?
JC: I first heard about the Supima Design Competition from Lisa Donofrio, a professor at school, who ended up being my contest mentor. I was told that four of the top fashion design schools in the country would each be selecting two students to compete. I felt honored when I was selected to represent FIT in this competition.

RP: WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DESIGNER?
JC: I actually started out as a fine artist and illustrator. As my work developed the figures I was creating began to look more and more like fashion sketches. Fashion had always been an interest of mine, so it seemed appropriate for me to transition in to design. Looking back, it was the best decision I made. I find that fashion suits my strengths.

RP: WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS COLLECTION?
JC: My capsule collection for the Supima Design Competition was inspired by the movie “The Blair Witch Project.” What I really enjoyed about it, when I look back, was the idea that the source of the terror was never seen. It was mysterious and thrilling. I applied that concept to my collection. The silhouettes, color palette and print choices were all selected to enrich the mood.

RP: HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE THE WINNER?
JC: It feels amazing! The Supima Design Competition Fashion Show was a fantastic experience. I can’t think of a better way to showcase work then having a collection walk the runway at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

RP: HOW WAS IT SHOWING FOR THE FIRST TIME?
JC: This was my first showing on the runway at Fashion Week, so I was really feeding off the excitement that surrounded the tents. There was a tangible energy there. It was exhilarating.

RP: WHAT NEXT?
JC: The level of enthusiasm and excitement that the Supima show generated has been incredible. It has created opportunity and the possibilities are very exciting. I’m not sure exactly what will happen but I’m looking forward to the future.

RP: WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO ANY YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WANT TO APPLY TO FASHION SCHOOL?
JC: I would say that fashion is an incredible outlet for a creative mind. There is a vastness to it, with endless possibilities. I would certainly encourage young people to pursue their creative interests. That is one of the most important tenets that I live by.

For a backstage slideshow shot by Gotham Magazine, click here.