Today we’d like to introduce you to Jocelyn Yang.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve been an artist my entire life. My art started out mainly focused on drawing, from realistic drawings of objects or people to fashion sketches as well. I also grew a passion for photography and learned how to use photo editing programs during my teenage years.
I begin my fashion design journey during my Sophomore year of High School after I learned how to sew in my Home Economics class. Many of my artistic skills flourished from the mentorship of my amazing teachers Ms. Klocke, Ms. Marni, Ms. Hartman, and Ms. Love from Johnson High School in St. Paul, MN. I joined my high school’s Fashion Club, which would plan and host an annual fashion show, as a designer and a student leader.
After designing for the first time, I was set on becoming a fashion designer. My teachers encouraged me to follow my dreams and pave my own path, even if it was a less traditional occupation for Asian Americans. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design at Saint Catherine University. I graduated in Spring 2021 and now am an industry professional, after the knowledge and preparation my professors Dr. Anupama Pasricha and Carol Mager taught me in my undergrad.
I founded and launched my brand Jocii Designs in 2020. Jocii Designs is focused on size-inclusive fashion, sustainability, art, and Hmong fashion.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
One of the biggest struggles as a small business/brand is visibility and growing your audience. Due to the worldwide pandemic, most of my opportunities to connect with others have been through social media or online. Events like fashion shows, art events, pop-up shops, markets, craft fairs, etc are crucial opportunities to connect with the local art/fashion community and also let people know about my brand.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My goal as a fashion designer has always been to create beautiful clothes that positively impact the wearer. I’ve seen the negative and harmful impact of the fashion industry first-hand, from the experiences of women of all shapes and sizes in my life and my own experiences.
In my brand Jocii Designs, my product focus is formalwear, Hmong-modern fashion, and jewelry. I offer custom made-to-measure formalwear garments, providing a personalized customer experience. I also create modern jewelry inspired by traditional Hmong arts. Additionally, I will be launching upcycled/repurposed garments created from thrifted clothing and deadstock fabric this year.
I believe fashion designers need to prioritize positive impact, inclusivity, and sustainability for there to be lasting change on all levels of the fashion industry. As industry professionals, it’s our role to not only advocate for change but to also create change!
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
As an artist, risk-taking is common. Bringing your ideas into life by pouring time, dedication, talent, skill to craft an artwork for a world to see is a lot of pressure. The value of art in society has shifted over time but can still be seen as a frivolous hobby to some, especially in Asian cultures. To be an artist, one must be brave and unapologetic about their passion and craft.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.jociidesigns.com
- Instagram: @jociidesigns
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jociidesigns
Image Credits
Lisa Yang
Jocelyn Yang
