Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in an immigrant Korean household, fourth-year fashion student Rocío Choi has been given the ability to view the world through a varied scope and an open-minded mentality.
A designer’s craft revolutionizes and builds the work; it translates the raw and personal characteristics of one’s self into reality. Through this conversation, Choi highlights her upbringing, where she belongs and gives proper credit to her skills.
The Connector: How did you get interested in fashion design?
Choi: I grew up exposed to two extremely contrasting cultures which have given me the ability to view the world through a wide spectrum and an open mind. My interest in fashion was born from the exposure I got on my parent’s textile business. After settling in Argentina with no savings nor university degree, they started the company, which deals mostly in wholesale, together. There is little glamour in it, but their hard work instilled in me a keen interest in the industry.
The Connector: Are there any unique or unusual inspiration processes you count on before you start your designer work?
Choi: I don’t think I do anything different in particular, but I do try to explore my concept as much as possible to pay the respect due to all of the references I’m utilizing. There is a huge difference between a work that has no context from one that does [have context] and familiarizing others to the concepts and questions posed by my work; it creates a necessary dialogue, vital for me to fully realize my collections. Also, critique and conversation helps me challenge myself beyond my normal perspectives.
The Connector: What is the goal you have with your design work?
Choi: I believe that art is the frontier of sociopolitical and technological change. I’m enthusiastic about different cultures and their specific means of expression through the languages of the arts, especially through fashion, and it’s my goal to project my vision through designs that show interest in timeless quality and consideration of detail.
The Connector: As a fashion designer, are there any values you think about when in the journey of your craft?
Choi: I definitely do take a lot of inspiration from my upbringing, as both a Christian and proud Argentinian-born Korean; I am eager to discuss my identity through my work. I think that it’s crucial to consider the current political, economical, social and environmental situations when designing. Isn’t it our job to create solutions to all these? I’d like to utilize my platform for positive change.
The Connector: Do you have design work that reflects your true craft?
Choi: I’m still on the search of finding my specialty within fashion and so far, most of my work has been experimental. My latest collection shows the most of myself: “Renaissance” is a ready-to-wear Fall/Winter collection that re-interprets the fashion and color of the Northern Renaissance paintings by fusing inspired garments with techniques of modern tailoring. This project allowed me to synthesize novel observations in textiles, my faith and environmental sustainability in fashion.
Courtesy of Rocio Choi. 
Courtesy of Rocio Choi. 
Courtesy of Rocio Choi.
The Connector: What advice would you give to other designers that are struggling to perfect or build craft?
Choi: I am no professional at this yet as I am still a student, but I think that we all — no matter what stage we are in — should struggle and do our best to perfect a craft. It’s so important to understand the beauty and power of struggle and how it can lead you to do better. However, you still have to be realistic about the aspects in which you can achieve it. Do your research, be ambitious and keep trying!
