Get to know the 40 student designers behind Fluidity Designs. They are all part of the UNC Workroom FashionMash Product Design Class. 

Learn more about the UNC Workroom FashionMash Program at workroomfashionmash.com 

Vanessa Agunobi

In every design that I create, I try to leave each piece with an aspect that represents my personality or something that I am most passionate about. 

In this design, I want to highlight the importance of facing adversity head-on by breaking barriers to live a life that one has always dreamed of. We may each be fighting our own battle during this time of social-distancing, but we will leave this period stronger than ever before.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

Eden Andes 

I find inspiration in underdogs and those who fight to earn the respect that others are simply given. I enjoy color theory, shapes, structures, textures, and combining them in unique and unexpected ways. I am thoroughly indebted to philosophy, history, and archaeology. 

Find some of my designs here and here. 

 

Morgan Bauer

I’ve always found beauty in simple things. That’s why I love typography. I follow numerous accounts that combine positive expressions with fun and interesting designs. These designs inspire me as they invoke feelings such as positivity, inspiration, confidence, or hope. Though my designs may be simple, they carry big messages. I hope these clothes invoke that same positive feeling in whoever wears them!

Find some of my designs here, here, and here. 

McGee Bosworth

For my personal style, I would say three words dominate my life: simple, equestrian and classic. While I love to take elements from unique trends from time to time, my style always come back down to classic, timeless pieces. I seek style inspiration from people that I come across in my daily life. I find there is nothing better than becoming inspired by someone’s outfit and aesthetic “in the wild!”

For this collection, I moved a bit away from my typical day-to-day style. With my design, “Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder,” I wanted to do something that would make people smile. Despite sunnier weather in many parts of the country, it is easy to feel down and gloomy whilst isolated inside. At least for myself, how I dress plays a large part in affecting my mood. SO - the “Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder” design intends to make you happy and lift your mood during a time when it is, justifiably, so easy to feel down.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

 

Audrey Burke

As a creative and designer, my inspiration stems from my compassion for others and creative mind that never takes pause. However, I’m also inspired by other artists, athletes and creators on Instagram and VSCO who produce content that moves me. And Audrey Hepburn. While I do feel a connection to her because we have the same name and birthday, I’m inspired by her elegance and the social good she did for others during her lifetime. 

My designs are influenced by the belief that sometimes the little things in life are the most beautiful, my travel experiences, and love of music, doodling, different mediums of art and athleticism. 

I love how simple design can be — illustrating with delicate lines, contrasting black and white, playing with pastel colors, or creating a message with clean, minimalistic typography — yet still communicate a powerful message, portray beauty or evoke emotion; that’s what I always remind myself while designing. My designs for this collection communicate that simple notion and are meant to be pieces you can envision yourself wearing.

Find some of my designs here and here and here and here. 

Samantha Casolaro

In my personal  style, I find that simplicity is key. I have never been one to lean toward crazy patterns to express myself. I tend to draw inspiration in what I wear from what I have seen while traveling and people I interact with. Most often I stick with neutral colors and one pop of color. Being someone who never wears pastel colors, it was a nice challenge to mix my regular, simplistic style with such an eye catching color palette.
During this global pandemic, I’ve have found that I and many others feel as if they need to be some sort of superhuman. With all of this ‘extra’ time, there is so much pressure to be improving or creating but it is not at all realistic. While this is a good time to get some things checked off your to-do list you never thought you would, it’s also a super important time to be taking care of yourself. I wanted to create a simple, to the point message with my piece that reminds us that it is okay if the only thing you are doing during this time is taking a second to step back from your hectic lifestyle and relax.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here.  

Claire Cole

Yesterday I might have been obsessed with excess, today I’ll tell you less is more and tomorrow, who knows?  When designing for this project, I found myself drawn to somewhere between less and more. With spring in full swing, I wanted to bring the brightness that is outdoors, into the home – a colorful and bold pattern to brighten up the indoor spaces we are currently occupying.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

 

Macey Davis

The world of fashion has a long and varied artistic history. Trends change on a seasonal basis and reflect the overall sentiment of a culture at a given time. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been inspired by messages of positivity that counterbalance the turmoil of our current situation. 

For the fluidity collection, my design is inspired by an elevated vintage aesthetic. I wanted “The Retro Curve” sports bra to be timeless and versatile while also inciting hope and lightness.

Find some of my designs here. 

 

Ashton Edge

I am often inspired by the way in which neutral colors can create a sophisticated and elevated look. I love incorporating fun pops of color and bold pieces into this style in an effort to showcase my personality through fashion.

For this collection I chose to create designs that evoked feelings of brightness, positivity and hope. I hope that these designs provide a sense of comfort and optimism during this uncertain time.

Find some of my designs here and here.

 

Kate Elliot

My study of both advertising and art history has informed my visual language. In advertisements, I most admire the graphic style and typography present in the 1960s and 1970s. I often draw on the bold simplicity that was popular in this era of media. In art, I cannot get enough of impressionist and post impressionist work, I often incorporate the flat, abstract, and colorful elements of impressionism in my work as well. I was so excited to marry these elements to create my print collection in the Fluidity line, while supporting health workers in the proces. Enjoy!

Find some of my designs here. 

 

Amy Emrich

I would not say I have a certain style of design but am instead inspired by the places I go and people I see. I try to invoke my mood in whatever I do and reflect that feeling in my clothes. While that can change daily, I do tend to value pastels and earth tones as well as abstract shapes and patterns.

For this project, I wanted to draw on love and comfort because this global epidemic has really opened my days to how important it is to have people around you that love you, support you, and care about you. I wanted to invoke in my sweatshirt design the idea of wearing your heart on your sleeve and after this is all over, we can hug those that we care about most and not ever take spending time with each other for granted again.

Find some of my designs here and here.

Caroline Farrell

While I’m a little calmer in person, sometimes you just have to embrace the over-the-top (palatable maximalism, if you will.) Inspired by bright colors and loud patterns, the first thing that came to mind when designing for this project was the butterfly. Freely moving, eternally hopeful and ever changing, they represent everything that I need during this time of absolute chaos, and I hope ‘Papillon’ brings the same to you.

Find some of my designs here and here and here.

 

Lachlan Gabriel

My design influences stem from the work of my creative heroes: the nostalgic photographs by Slim Aarons; the elaborate sets and wardrobes in Wes Anderson films; the color palettes of paintings by Andre Lhote. One of my key takeaways from this class is to proactively seek inspiration from diverse sources to strengthen my own ideas.

Find some of my designs here and here.

Caroline Greelish

I am drawn to the bold statements that fashion can make. The risks that are taken, the fearless choices made, the mixing of patterns and colors. There are no rules, and that’s exactly why I love it. 

For the fluidity collection, I wanted my pieces to explore the dichotomy between staying calm, whilst being daring at the same time. Although the colors of my pieces are muted, they will definitely catch your eye...

Find some of my designs here and here. 

Wesley Harwood

Growing up in the mountains of NC, I have always been inspired by nature. Many of my designs utilize neutral tones, intricate designs, and a simple aesthetic. I appreciate quality and beautiful typography. 

My inspiration for this product draws directly from my mountain heritage and topographical maps.  Although we may be separated by hills and valleys, may we be reminded of our unity rather than our distance during this time. I hope that my clothing brings others comfort while still allowing them to express themselves.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

Lane Hawkins

If minimalism is in, I’m out. And that’s okay with me. 

In my designs, and in life, I am drawn to the action. The colors, the curves, and the details. Especially the details. So much of my inspiration comes from the loud, unashamed aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s. That reckless feminine energy, combined with bold beliefs and uncompromised principles, is what drives me to keep creating.

Find some of my designs here and here.

 

Harris Hord

Inspiration can emerge from seemingly arbitrary external forces. We must find the ambition and courage to act on it. A good idea has the power to better the world.
Being observant and open-minded keeps my mind fertile, and I am always open to try anything twice. I believe that everyone has a valuable story to tell and think that we should never cease our pursuit of learning.

When I was tasked to design a piece for the Fluidity Collection, I was drawn back to my home. I grew up in Carolina Beach, a small beach town in Southeastern North Carolina, where the easy-going locals flow through life just like the ocean. It is my hope that the serenity and grace of the sea comes to mind as my patrons’ adorn the Wavy Sea Joggers and that the proceeds assist in the termination of COVID-19.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here. 

 

Taner Jacobs

As a creative, I believe that one of our biggest responsibilities is to shed light on the things that matter the most. I often take on social and political issues in my work and aim to bring about awareness and highlight injustices where need be.

For this project, I was compelled to highlight the importance of mental health during a time of isolation. In my design, I wanted to evoke the message that smiling can be a form of medicine. While you’re social distancing away from friends and family, be reminded that you are not alone. Share your smile, you never know who may need it!

Find some of my designs here.

Solomon Key

When designing for the Fluidity hoodie, my aim was to create an image that was lyrical. The spillover of colors in the gradient filled objects is supposed to evoke feelings of fluidity. To create contrast, I enclosed the gradients in objects.  

As a lifelong learner, I try to pull from my experiences with people, music, and other things, and put them my work. My relationship with design has always been one based around my passion for learning. It fills my heart with joy knowing that others can gain something positive from what me. I hope those who may wear this product have as much fun wearing it as I did when designing it. 

Find some of my designs here. 

Tori Kimball

Your work is only as good as the message behind it. This is the thought that has motivated everything I do and design. My favorite book, Tuesdays with Morrie, inspired me to create designs that help others find the good in each day. I drew design influence from the Bauhaus design style to create a juxtaposition between simplicity and complexity. I hope my designs inspire us all to look at the complexity of each day and find the good and beauty in simple things.

Find some of my designs here.

 

Caitlyn Kumi

As a woman of color, I focus on pursuing opportunities where I can make the biggest impact. Recently, I have been inspired by the social impact initiatives launched as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The #stayathome movement, the promotion of social distancing, and charitable giving has inspired me to design a collection that speaks to people of all backgrounds who have a strong desire to make a difference. I hope to produce designs in the Fluidity collection that are eye-catching to consumers in order  to help in the fight against COVID-19.

Find some of my designs here and here.

Emiko LeNeave

I am drawn to the evolving yet cyclical nature of fashion. It evokes memory and sentiment. With the ability to reflect, inspire and unify, fashion is powerful and dynamic. 

My designs are inspired by emotion and what I crave in a moment. Submerged in uncertainty, I am gravitating towards soft colors and gentle lines. To me, the Fluidity Collection embodies this needed calm.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

 

Nicole Martinez

My background is from Miami, yet I have had the opportunity to travel and live in various cities and countries. By appreciating the tiny details in my everyday surroundings, I have developed a constant curiosity and global mindset that inspires me in different ways. I strive to create designs that are enjoyable in any situation.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here. 

 

Lexy Milliken

My happy place is in a crowded room full of people I love. This idea was the inspiration for my piece. My friends are from all different walks of life, unified by our love for one another. This beautiful, supportive love is what I tried to emulate in my piece. Spreading love and standing united is more important now than ever. We are stronger together!

Find some of my designs here and here.

 

Jane Moody

As a creative, I strive to surround myself with people and things that inspire me. Inspiration ignites my creativity. Lately, I’ve found myself inspired by the emergence of light appearing throughout our global community. The global proliferation of hope has become the antidote to my anxiety. I am now confident that we will prevail, we will recover, and we will come out stronger, healthier, and more united than ever. As a member of Fluidity Designs, I hope to use my creative talent to help our world in the fight against COVID-19. 

Find some of my designs here, here, here, and here. 

Catherine Morgan

How I’m feeling on a particular day influences the art I produce. Typically, my designs and personal aesthetic follow a minimalist theme with few patterns and muted colors. During this time of uncertainty, however, I have shifted toward brighter colors to raise the spirits of those stuck at home and those on the frontlines. Let’s #GetUsPPE.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

Cinthia Ogbaugo

My inspirations in design stem from my affinity for illustration and patterns. I strive for a form of symmetry in all that I produce. Whether that be in color schemes and layout, with geometric shapes, or with the story the design tells. 

For this project, I was influenced by my peers and looking for cohesiveness with my individual product, while also exemplifying how this time has left us all in uncertainty, swept away with each wave. My group piece was inspired by how fluidity allows us to change and evolve.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here.

Breeze Qu

Every time I want to design something, I will give myself some time to feel what’s the soul of this design. Then I would just follow what comes up in my heart and make it into reality. It could be too weird, too complicated, or too vague. But I feel excited for all of them and always want to give it a try. 

For this coronavirus theme design, my heart wishes this unprecedented disaster could be gone in the near future so I draw everything that may help reaching to this goal to remind people wearing it and those around them :)

Find some of my designs here and here.

Anabelle Scarborough

My designs were created with the intent of inspiring, provoking and uplifting those who wear them. I enjoy fusing design with compelling text and photography. 

Moreover, my travels, love for color and film photography infiltrate my designs. I'm a believer in deep conversations, thought, and detailed moments in time and want to share those with the customers. As a 20 year old creator, I hope that my designs will resonate with those of all ages.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here. 

Genie Shekar

Lines, shapes, and textures draw my eye. Playing between simplicity and complexity excites me. Vintage and fresh inspire me. Having a story to tell is what guides me.

Wherever I go, I hope to leave each place a little more beautiful.

Find some of my designs here.

Tanya Slehria

My design is inspired by how simple colors and patterns can create a bold statement. In my personal style, I have always been attracted to neutral colors and basics that are sleek and sophisticated. 

The soft pastels within the Fluidity collection helped me create inspiring loungewear that I hope will resonate with others as well to feel confident about the meaningful work they’re supporting.

Find some of my designs here.

 

 

Abigale Speight

USE YOUR POWER TO EMPOWER. 

My design “nostalgia for the future” was inspired by the uncertainty of what the future may hold.  My simple fluid line drawing incorporates a silhouette and butterfly together as one to symbolize the power we have to leverage this time of unknown to transform. I hope to inspire others to continue to look into the future with hope, excitement and the understanding that now more than ever we are together as we move forward.

Find some of my designs here.

Jenna Strachota

Typically, my designs are influenced by my experience working in the bridal industry. Most of my designs are feminine and romantic with an architectural twist. 

For this project, I decided to go for an edgy look that resembles the night sky, because throughout this time of social distancing, I oftentimes find myself looking at the stars to bring me peace. No matter how far away we are from family and friends, the sky connects us.

Find some of my designs here and here.

Connor Thompson

Originally from a small town, but I have expanded my mindset and culture beyond its boundaries. I try to take the same approach when it comes to my creative work as well. 

Through experiencing different cultures both domestically and internationally, I created a simplistic design that serves the better purpose of society.

Find some of my designs here.

Gabrielle Thompson

As a photographer, I’m passionate about capturing and creating beauty. This motivates all of my work whether it’s photography, fashion design or anything in between. 

I’m drawn to pastels and simplistic feminine flair which are parts of my inspiration for this collection. I created a design with a tranquil lilac color and a simple butterfly which symbolizes change, hope and endurance. Everytime I glance at my design, which I’ve also made into a background on my phone, I feel instantly more relaxed. I hope to have this same impact on everyone who wears my little butterfly on their hoodie or T-shirt.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

 

Anna Wallace

In general, my designs are influenced by the idea of simplicity, taking after more muted and neutral colors while straying away from more bold and bright patterns. This influence of simplicity comes from my own personal style which takes after more subtle designs. As an avid traveller, much of my inspiration comes from the people and places I see which allows me to create a subtle, yet unique statement in my pieces.  

For the Fluidity collection, my design consisted of a simple graphic delivering a simple message. The blend of soft, light colors symbolize positivity in the midst of fear and uncertainty while the design promotes unity and global connection.

Find some of my designs here and here. 

Chloe Williams

I have always been inspired by the magic of the ordinary. There is so much to learn from the things that surround us every day. The beauty of nature and the power in its perseverance have inspired me to keep working, to keep breathing, to keep growing.

This design reminds everyone who sees it that in the midst of change, uncertainty, and even death, life is still breaking through.

Find some of my designs here and here.

 

Jerry Yan

I take inspiration from traveling the world, as well as objects in my daily life. The world consists of thousands of cultures, demographics and lifestyles, and good designs should be something that connects the world together and are understandable to all people around the world.

Moreover, I believe in “less is more.” We don’t need a whole lot to express ourselves. Often times, the basics will do. I pay more attention to how to tell the story instead of what is the story.

Find some of my designs here, here, and here. 

Zora Zhao

Inspired by calm seas, the design tries to express a peaceful feeling. The waves will push everything forward and disappear in the ocean. The small boat stands for hope, slowly but steadily leading us out of the difficult times.

I personally picked the light colors to mimic children’s drawings and to represent  a happy time.

Find some of my designs here and here.