Designer Profile 2022: David Schalop

Apr 18

Apr 18 Designer Profile 2022: David Schalop

What is the focus of your collection this time around? How has the materiality progressed from last year?

This year, my focus is on a lot of things. I’m definitely going to continue my emphasis on materiality: I plan to print on the fabric again for example. However, I’m also interested in exploring comfort. Namely, I hope to make clothes that my models are comfortable in physically and psychologically. I’m going to attend to the fact that comfort is a function of weather, and individual understanding of self as well as relatedly the types of clothes one feels they belong in.

Do you design with androgyny in mind?

Yes! In step with my previous answer, I am designing clothes for two friends that are women; however, I am making pieces that visually resemble menswear. My hope is to show that people of all body types can wear clothing that fits into any style category.

How has going abroad affected the collection?

Last quarter I was lucky enough to study abroad in Paris, and the experience has definitely had a big impact on the clothes I’m making this year. Mainly after visiting fashion museums and seeing Parisian everyday style, I’m extra interested in creating looks that are formal and timeless.

What do you feel is the role of social interaction in fashion design?

Fashion is in its most basic sense self expression. What you wear and how you present yourself are inherently related to the relationships you form with others. That being said, it is obviously just one factor in the formation of meaningful friendships. Nobody knows ultimately why some people get along well!

In what ways does the location of the show itself affect your designs?

In general, I tend to ignore the location of the show when making my designs. That being said, I do recognize that the site impacts how people will ultimately engage with the clothes I make. I find that dynamic fun and exciting. Overall, I do not want to directly control it but, I understand that the takeaways people will have about my clothes are inherently impacted by the location of the show.
Will you be going to Logan or other spaces to design?

I will be designing and sewing everything at home! My home is my happy place when it comes to creative tasks. I will blast the exact music I want to listen to, and take breaks whenever I want.

Does the fact that this is your last collection play any role in your design process?

Definitely, I’m hoping to more precise than I’ve ever been in terms of technical construction. Straight stitching is the ultimate goal!

What would be your biggest piece of advice for MODA designers in their third year or below?

RELAX! UChicago expects so much of us, and MODA is an added pressure. Try to really take in what is so fun about the design process without worrying too much about the exact outcome. Whatever you make will be great! Be easy on yourself and enjoy the process. I promise you this will lead to the “best” results!