FARAI SIMOYI

Farai Simoyi is an amazing talented 23 years old young lady. She views the world with a much mature point of view by exposing herself to many groups of diverse people and culture. I am thrill to have this opportunity to have her grace Undiscover Magazine blog.

"My line represents strength and natural beauty of women from all walks of life. I think sometimes when life get's us into a pattern we are quick to forget about the things that matter the most...our roots. My designs are influenced by traditional African designs, which constantly remind me of my roots and my humble beginnings. I incorporate Zimbabwean fabrics rendered with current silhouettes with a 70's setting. All of these things are what make the clothing line Farai what it is and what it will be."

1. When did you realize you wanted to be a fashion designer?

I've always loved fashion and enjoyed being around it, but for the longest time it was a hobby of mine and I never really knew I could make a career out of it. It wasn't until I got to college that I realized that this is a profession that men and women really get into and can thrive in.

2. What is you earliest fashion memory?

As a child, my aunt owned and still does own her own lingerie company. She would always have scraps of fabric, which she would let me rummage through. She gave me my first needle and thread and from there I started making clothes for myself and my dolls.

3. I’ve read that you live on 3 different continents on the eastern and western hemisphere. Has this experience affect the way you view the world?

Absolutely. I have experienced 3 different cultures and been around so many different types of people all my life. When I design I try to incorporate all of the places I have been because that is what I know and it draws in a larger audience to my work. "designing for the masses", and appealing to women from all walks of life.
4. Where did you study? What was your major?
I studied fashion design at West Virginia University and studied at NABA (Nuova Accademia Belle Di Arti) in Milan Italy for a summer.

5. Where do you turn for inspiration for you designs?

The History of Fashion is a wonderful place to turn for inspiration as well as architecture and music.
6. Describe your personal style?
The Color wheel, Coney Island, The Brooklyn Museum , circa 1970's, Studio 54 all mixed in a melting pot.
7. Do you wear your own design? Where would readers find you flashing your line?
Yes, when the occasion fits I love to wear my own designs. I usually wear my own dresses on a night out with some of my friends. When I really want to dress to impress.
8. Who are your fashion icons (past and present)? Do you think they influenced your personal style?
Roberto Cavalli. I love his use of wild prints and colors and transform these into beautiful silhouettes. His work definitely influences my personal style because I too love incorporating prints and colors in my work.

9. Where can readers find your line?

Readers can check out www.faraisimoyi.com

10. What advice would you give someone just starting in your field?

For someone starting in this field; I would tell them to never give up. Especially if they have passion for design and they don't see their career path any other way. The fashion industy is one of the hardest industries to stay afloat in. There are always people in this industry who will constantly try to bring you down. Instead of viewing these people as negative factors in your life look at it as energy that will make you want to work harder and progress even more in the industry.