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

Hi Shiqi, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My perspective on work-life balance has evolved significantly. Initially, I believed that pouring every ounce of my being into my creations was the key to success. I thought that any moment not spent working was a missed opportunity. However, I’ve learned that this mindset can lead to burnout and hinder creativity.

Now, I understand the importance of finding equilibrium between work and life. While creating stunning pieces remains a passion, I’ve come to appreciate the value of taking breaks and immersing myself in the world around me. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through nature or a romantic evening with my partner, these moments of rejuvenation fuel my creativity and bring balance to my life.

As a fashion designer, I’ve learned that true inspiration often comes from living life fully, not just from within the confines of my studio. By prioritizing work-life balance, I’ve discovered a newfound energy and passion for my craft that translates into my designs.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My name is Shiqi Xu, and I’m a dedicated womenswear and couture designer, graduating with honors from the prestigious Parsons School of Design in 2023.

Under my label SHIQI XU, I craft luxurious womenswear, spanning from ready-to-wear to couture eveningwear. What sets SHIQI XU apart is its fusion of Eastern cultural heritage, subtle storytelling, Western haute couture craftsmanship, and the meticulous use of exquisite high-end fabrics, all infused with an air of sophisticated elegance. Pronounced “shekey,” the brand name symbolizes “She is the key,” embodying our consistent design philosophy.

As a designer, I find inspiration in my personal narratives and emotional landscapes, as well as in the societal issues that shape individual experiences. My design ethos is characterized by its romantic and poetic essence, akin to composing a delicate and evocative poem that lingers in the mind.

Having lived and studied across global fashion capitals like London, New York, and Shanghai, I deeply cherish my Chinese heritage and traditions. I revel in the exploration of diverse materials and traditional crafts, reimagining them into contemporary fashion statements. Honored with the Dean’s Scholarship from Parsons for four consecutive years, I’ve had enriching experiences collaborating with esteemed brands such as Dior and Celine.

My work has garnered recognition in esteemed fashion platforms like CFDA Runway 360 and Vogue Runway, as well as in prominent publications including Marie Claire China and Harper’s Bazaar China. These experiences have not only shaped my design perspective but also instilled in me a profound understanding of luxury fashion.

My journey as a designer has been anything but easy. I’ve encountered numerous challenges along the way, from mastering intricate craftsmanship to navigating the competitive industry landscape. However, each obstacle has been a learning opportunity, pushing me to evolve creatively and professionally.

Ultimately, I aspire for the world to recognize SHIQI XU not just as a luxury fashion brand, but as a storyteller, weaving narratives of culture, emotion, and craftsmanship into each meticulously crafted piece. My hope is for my designs to resonate with individuals on a profound level, sparking conversations and inspiring a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind fashion.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For an unforgettable time in LA with my best friend, I’d curate a diverse itinerary to showcase the city’s vibrant culture and culinary delights.

First stop, we’d head to Griffith Observatory, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign. We’d spend the morning soaking in the panoramic vistas and exploring the fascinating exhibits on astronomy and space exploration.

Next, we’d venture to Laguna Beach, a picturesque coastal town known for its pristine beaches and artistic community. We’d spend the afternoon lounging on the sun-kissed sands, taking a dip in the azure waters, and strolling along the charming boardwalk lined with art galleries and boutiques.

As the sun sets, it’s time to indulge in some quintessential LA cuisine at In-N-Out Burger. We’d savor their legendary burgers and fries, soaking in the laid-back vibe of this beloved fast-food joint.

To cap off the night, we’d immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of Sun dong dan, a trendy karaoke bar where we can belt out our favorite tunes and dance the night away with locals and fellow travelers alike.

From celestial wonders to coastal bliss and delicious eats, this itinerary promises a whirlwind adventure through the best of LA’s attractions and experiences.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a big shoutout to Ming, the founder and creative director of MING MA, whose aesthetic sensibility deeply influenced my journey as a designer and provided me with my first experience in the world of fashion.

Additionally, I want to express my gratitude to my managers at CELINE and Dior for entrusting me with invaluable opportunities to work with prestigious luxury brands, enriching my expertise as a fashion artist and stylist.

I’m also immensely thankful to Susan, the owner of The Wedding Dresser, for granting me the chance to delve into practical applications of my clothing design and haute couture skills, while also teaching me invaluable lessons in customer service.

Furthermore, I owe a debt of gratitude to my professors at Parsons, Fiona and Brigitte, whose guidance and insights seamlessly bridged my academic and professional pursuits, shaping my trajectory in the fashion industry.

Last but certainly not least, I want to acknowledge the unwavering support and encouragement of my family, who have been my steadfast companions throughout this journey.

Website: www.shiqixustudio.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/shiqixu_?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiqi-xu-b7892a1a1?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Other: https://runway360.cfda.com/designers/shiqi-xu https://www.notjustalabel.com/shiqixu

Image Credits
Photographer: P3 : Sanquan P4: Ramona Wang p5: Tete p7: Ramona Wang P8: Lizi

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.