We had the good fortune of connecting with Dairu Ren and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Dairu, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I am passionate about pursuing an artistic or creative career because of my love for the artistic expression of fashion and its ability to serve as a means of self-expression. Creating designs that tell a story, evoke emotions, and communicate a message is a process that I truly enjoy. To me, fashion is not solely about producing clothing; it is an art form that has the power to challenge societal norms, inspire change, and make a positive impact in the world. Moreover, fashion design enables me to merge my passion for art and design with my interest in business, making it a fulfilling and stimulating career path.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a fashion designer, my focus is primarily on the creation and design of textiles, colors, and shapes utilized in clothing and accessories. My goal is to weave compelling narratives with each collection, meticulously crafting each component to convey a unique and captivating story. I am driven by a desire to merge the artistry of avant-garde design with the intricate craftsmanship of slow fashion, striving to achieve a balance between functionality and beauty. Through innovative and daring designs, I incorporate traditional yarns and diverse materials, drawing inspiration from the production process to redefine the relationship between clothing and people and its impact on society.
My work presents both unique opportunities and challenges. What sets my design apart is the ability to create garments that are not only beautiful and unique, but also have a positive impact on the environment and society. I take great pride in knowing that every piece of clothing I create is made with the utmost care and attention to detail, utilizing handmade methods that strengthen the connection between us and the garments we wear, transcending the status of a mere commodity produced by fast fashion factories.
Although the fashion industry can be challenging, I remain steadfast in my commitment to persistence and perseverance. I will continue to hone my design skills, seeking feedback and criticism to improve my craft. I believe that success is achieved through a combination of passion, creativity, and perseverance. By staying true to my values, continuously learning and adapting, and fostering a supportive community of customers and collaborators, I can create beautiful, sustainable clothing that has a positive impact on the world.
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.
I would like to recommend The Bendix Building, a historic landmark situated in downtown Los Angeles, California. This iconic building was constructed in 1930 and features an Art Deco architectural style, meticulously designed by renowned architect Albert C. Martin Sr. It was named after the Bendix Aviation Corporation, one of its original tenants. Presently, The Bendix Building has evolved into a thriving hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, housing various innovative businesses such as fashion designers, artists, and tech startups. The building has also gained popularity as a go-to destination for events and creative gatherings, attracting a diverse range of people. Its distinct architecture and rich history have elevated it to become a significant landmark in the city, celebrated by many. I highly recommend visiting The Bendix Building to experience its unique charm and energy firsthand.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Since childhood, I have harbored a deep-seated dream of becoming a fashion designer. However, at the time, I was unsure of how to bring that dream to fruition. When I expressed my aspirations to my parents, they dismissed the idea as impractical and advised me to pursue more traditional and stable professions instead. It was then that my grandmother intervened and provided me with unwavering support and encouragement. She instilled in me the belief that with hard work and determination, I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. I am incredibly grateful to my grandmother for her unwavering support and guidance. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way, her unwavering presence and encouragement have been a constant source of strength for me. Without her, I would not have had the courage to pursue my dreams and become the successful designer I am today.
Website: https://www.dairuren.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_r.e.n/
Image Credits
KATIE BORRAZZO, Joebert Tupas, Ni Ouyang