Meet Sofia Masuda | Textile, Knitwear, and Graphic Designer

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

Hi Sofia, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born and raise in Los Angeles. I am half-Japanese and half-Mexican and I love embracing my culture in my design process. I have always found culture and diversity interesting. Growing up in Los Angeles in a very diverse community, I had the opportunity to really understand the importance of our differences. Viewing the world in the eyes of a diverse background is beautiful and I have always wanted to capture the beauty in our differences. My family, my culture, and my community is what made me the designer I am today, and I think it is important to understand where you’ve been to understand who you want to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Going into the industry of fashion, I started my creative journey with textiles. To me, textiles was the basis of the industry, and I felt that it was important to learn before going into design. I think it makes a big difference between other designers because you get an understanding of how printed and patterns work in every day life. One of the biggest things I learned throughout my journey of getting to where I am, is to be open to learning new things. The fashion industry is constantly changing with new trends and you influences, and you have to find a balance between keeping up with the trends, and your style. The other thing is that there are a lot of different creative people influencing the industry, and if you’re willing to learn from peer and learn new skill sets, it will make you a stronger designer.

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.
The beauty of Los Angeles is that there is something to do around every corner. Whether it’s a morning run up the Silverlake stairs to grabbing brunch at Millie’s cafe on Sunset. There are so many things to do. I’m a huge Dodgers fan and love to catch a game or two from time to time. Walking through historical Union Station, and taking the gold line to the red to the expo and landing at the Santa Monica Promenade. Catching the sunset at Paradise Cove in Malibu, or indulging in a multi cultural cuisine experience at the Grand Central Market. A Sunday morning stroll through the 5th st farmers market, and heading to Little Tokyo for some mochi and ice cream. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at the San Antonio Winery and enjoying the live entertainment. Los Angeles is filled with culture and fun!

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 would love to recognize my family, specifically the women in my family. with out there endless help and support I wouldn’t be the designer I am today.

Website: Www.sofiemasuda.com

Instagram: @Sofiemasuda

Linkedin: Sofiamasuda