We were lucky to catch up with Nina Ishii recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Nina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I first realized I wanted to pursue a creative and artistic path professionally during my time at FIT. Despite the challenges and pressures, being surrounded by a community of aspiring fashion professionals fueled my passion even further. Witnessing fellow students chasing their dreams inspired me to do the same. It was during this time that I interned at prestigious fashion houses like The Row, Proenza Schouler, and Carolina Herrera. Working closely with VIP clients like Sarah Jessica Parker, Scarlett Johansson, and Jennifer Lawrence opened my eyes to the potential of creating my own brand and designs. Each interaction with these clients fueled my creative fire and solidified my determination to pursue my own artistic journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Nina New York represents my artistic journey, born from a deep passion for crochet and design nurtured during my time at FIT. Originally from Japan, I moved to the US and graduated from a community college in California, majoring in fashion merchandising, before pursuing my dream at FIT. Despite facing financial hardship, I refused to let go of my dream, inspired by the creativity and determination of fellow students. Specializing in handmade bags that intricately blend satin and crochet, each piece is a labor of love, reflecting my dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. From humble beginnings to showcases at NYFW and “A Current Affair,” Nina New York has become a symbol of authenticity and creativity in the fashion world. As I look to the future, I envision expanding my artistic vision beyond bags into fashion apparel, driven by a desire to inspire others to embrace their creative passions fearlessly.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Absolutely! Let me share with you the remarkable journey I’ve had with Nina New York, where passion and creativity intertwine in the most incredible ways. Back when I was at FIT, juggling seven classes and three internships was no easy feat. But amidst the chaos of my schedule, my unwavering passion for art and design kept me going. Starting Nina New York was like breathing life into my dreams, and despite the challenges, I never let go of my creative journey. Surrounded by the inspiring atmosphere of FIT, I found myself pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic horizons. Collaborating with stylists, models, and photographers became not just a job, but a thrilling adventure in self-expression. From crafting handmade bags that are true works of art to participating in events like NYFW, every step of this journey has been fueled by my love for creativity. And as I look to the future, envisioning the expansion of Nina New York into the world of apparel, I am filled with boundless excitement for the artistic odyssey that lies ahead.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Absolutely, there is a driving force behind my creative journey with Nina New York. My goal and mission revolve around transforming dreams into tangible, handcrafted creations. I’m deeply passionate about empowering individuals to express themselves through art and fashion. Each piece I create is not just a product but a representation of my dedication to fostering creativity and inspiring others to pursue their passions. I want to convey the message that every individual’s dreams deserve to be realized, and I aim to achieve this through my artistry. Whether it’s through collaborating with stylists, models, and photographers or showcasing my designs at prestigious events, my ultimate mission is to spark joy and inspiration in others through my creative endeavors. Additionally, I envision establishing my own boutique presence in major fashion capitals like NYC, LA, London, Paris, and Japan, where I can provide a space for others to experience the beauty of handcrafted fashion firsthand. Moreover, I’m committed to giving back to the fashion community by using the profits from my business to establish financial support programs for fashion students facing hardships, aiming to alleviate the burdens I once faced myself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nina.new.york/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/nina-ishii

Image Credits
Mars Alba (for all photos)