For many Seniors approaching the end of high school, there is a cloud of uncertainty that obscures the road immediately ahead. However for Alyssia McDonald, this was never the case. Whilst completing her final year in high school, Alyssia undertook a Certificate III in Applied Fashion Design and Technology, sparking a passion which illuminated the road ahead. “After graduating high school, I set myself a goal to pursue my dream to one day become a fashion designer,” says Alyssia.
Wasting no time, she quickly followed up her studies with a Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising through TAFE Queensland. In a nebular cloud of perseverance and energy, Alyssia managed to burn her name amongst the stars in fashion. In 2018 she became the youngest recipient of an International Design Award in Los Angeles and spent nights in West Hollywood mingling with other stars and creatives in the industry. The passing years have undoubtedly been a labour of love for the young student. Now, having just turned 20, she is basking in the dawning light of her supernova-like arrival in the fashion industry — unveiling her very own Alyssia The Label.
“Fashion was a natural progression from art,” states Alyssia, reflecting upon her journey so far. It would seem that the flare for creation and expression is something that ran deep within Alyssia’s veins from a young age. Starting with repurposing and experimentation with thrift shop items as a young girl through to her exploration of the female form through oil painting shapes and textures. “The process of doing a sketch and seeing the creative journey end with an expression of yourself is very rewarding. I believe that everything you create tells a story. I draw on life experience, take inspiration from people and places then let my imagination take me on a journey,” says Alyssia. The budding designer’s creation of Alyssia The Label has so far been an exciting challenge, demanding a great deal of her time and passion. At this point, every single piece is designed and handmade within her tiny sewing studio at home. “Expansion is exciting, but I definitely can’t keep up with the orders myself anymore,” Alyssia says. “I’m passionate about ethical, safe and fair production of clothing … I want to be responsible and establish a label that will be around for a long time.”
By recognising this, it is obvious that Alyssia’s passion is carefully seamed with a strong sense of self awareness both as an individual and as a label. “Fashion design isn’t easy. It’s something you throw every ounce of your being into and you strive for perfection in every garment; you work tirelessly until each piece is something you can be really proud of,” Alyssia reflects. Already setting course for future plans, 2020 promises to be an exciting year for the young designer. With her unwavering courage in pursuing her goals and nothing but time on her side, we will be watching McDonald eagerly as she continues to embark upon her future fashion endeavours.
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