We recently connected with Kangqi Zou and have shared our conversation below.

Kangqi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

As a New York-based fashion designer, I’m driven by a mission deeply rooted in my personal experiences and the unique juxtapositions of my upbringing. Growing up amidst the contrasting landscapes of harsh industrial realities and the ethereal world of fashion, I’ve witnessed firsthand the complexities and conflicts that shape our societal fabric. This duality serves as the driving force behind my brand and my signature series, “Monkey See, Monkey Do.”

Through “Monkey See, Monkey Do,” I explore themes of mimicry, identity, and societal expectations within the realm of fashion. This series delves into the performative aspects of human behavior and the often unspoken yet rigid expectations placed on individuals, particularly women, in both professional and personal spheres. By challenging these norms, my work aims to spark dialogue and inspire change regarding how identity is shaped by cultural and social structures.

I believe that fashion is a powerful medium for communication and cultural commentary, and each collection I design serves as a narrative that resonates with those navigating the complexities of identity and empowerment. My mission is meaningful to me because it reflects my journey—blending personal history with professional passion to create impactful, thought-provoking fashion. I strive to challenge viewers to think differently about the clothes they wear and the identities they embody, contributing to a broader conversation about empowerment and self-expression in today’s society.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Kangqi Zou, a New York-based fashion designer deeply committed to integrating cultural heritage with innovative fashion narratives. My education at Parsons profoundly influenced my approach to design, which aims to subvert traditional norms and embrace feminist principles within the fashion industry.
My journey into fashion was fueled by a desire to weave personal stories with overarching societal themes, crafting garments that are both functional and intellectually stimulating. My work often tackles themes of mimicry, identity, and the impact of cultural influences. For instance, in my project “Monkey See, Monkey Do,” I delve deeper into the concept of cultural imitation and the complex process of self-discovery. This series not only highlights the nuances of personal and cultural identity but also challenges viewers to consider the role of fashion as a powerful medium for storytelling and reflection.
Through my designs, I strive to create a dialogue between the wearer and the observer, inviting them to question and interpret the layers of meaning embedded in each piece. My goal is to make fashion that is not just seen but experienced, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diversity and richness of cultural narratives intertwined with modern style.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of working in the fashion industry is the ability to use my designs to influence and inspire change. Each piece I create is more than just a display of creativity; it’s a tool for communication and introspection. Having the power to integrate complex narratives—whether they involve feminist themes, delve into cultural identities, or challenge societal norms—into wearable art is profoundly satisfying.
It’s incredibly gratifying to see individuals form a personal connection with my work. Whether they feel empowered by the designs or are prompted to view the world differently, it highlights the significant impact creativity can have. Fashion is about more than aesthetics; it’s about initiating dialogue, fostering cultural and social evolution, and making a meaningful difference. This capability to affect lives and motivate people to express their unique selves while pushing for widespread change is what I treasure most as an artist in the realm of fashion.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

In the creative world of fashion design, one of the most complex challenges is maintaining a balance between personal artistic vision and the demands of the broader market. This balancing act is not just a matter of compromise but a dynamic interplay that often drives innovation. As designers, we must constantly navigate between staying true to our unique aesthetic and adapting our creations to fit consumer preferences and trends. This requires a deep understanding of our artistic identity and a keen awareness of market dynamics and consumer behavior.
Moreover, the emotional resilience required in the fashion industry cannot be overstated. Facing criticism and rejection is an integral part of a designer’s career due to the highly subjective nature of fashion. Each piece of feedback, while sometimes difficult to accept, provides a valuable opportunity to refine and solidify our vision. Developing the ability to discern constructive insights from mere opinions, and maintaining a strong commitment to our creative ethos, are crucial skills. This process of receiving feedback, adapting, and re-creating is not merely about producing garments but about engaging in a broader cultural and artistic dialogue.
Through our collections, we offer narratives that have the power to influence perceptions, inspire societal change, and challenge norms. Thus, the role of a fashion designer transcends the creation of clothing; it involves shaping personal expression and public discourse, making it a profoundly impactful and enriching profession.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kangqizou.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kangqiyaaaaa/

Image Credits

PHOTOGRAPHER: NI OUYANG @rotten_avocadoo
FASHION DESIGNER: Kangqi Zou @kangqiyaaaaa
MODEL:ANNA KANEHARA @annakanehara
MUA:YUNQI YING @limbafter1imb
PHOTO ASSISTANT: Camille Wang @saltcamille Xiaoyu Zhang@xyzhang2017
STYLIST ASSISTANT: Julie Gu @julie_guuu
SET ASSISTANT: Michael Hu@husenrui