A group of young fashion designers at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Academy’s Fashion Club in Brooklyn, consisting of students in grades one through six, are learning the ropes of fashion design from parent and local designer Laura Gabrielson. Gabrielson, who has been running her own company, the LG Project, for 13 years, started the club as a way to involve her eight-year-old daughter in her work. The club aims to teach kids the entire design process, from creating mood boards to selecting fabrics and getting their designs manufactured in Gabrielson’s factory.
The Fashion Club provides a creative outlet for students who may not have access to traditional art programs. Gabrielson hopes to eventually teach the kids how to sew and also bring them to her factory to see the manufacturing process firsthand. The students, who have developed a keen eye for fashion under Gabrielson’s guidance, are already making their own design decisions, choosing fabrics, and exploring different design elements such as colors and styles. The fashion club not only nurtures the students’ creativity but also introduces them to the basics of clothing manufacturing.
The young designers at St. Stan’s design studio are honing their skills and developing their unique design aesthetics. While some students like Madeleine prefer bold and non-traditional colors, others like Vincent draw inspiration from nature. The children enjoy the social aspect of the club, working on designs with their friends and experiencing the joy of creating something unique. With the help of older students like Helena, who take on responsibilities like measuring their peers for their designs, the Fashion Club fosters a sense of teamwork and collaboration among the students.
Gabrielson’s Fashion Club is not just about creating designs but also about preserving the legacy of clothing manufacturing in New York City. With the decline of the Garment District in Manhattan due to overseas production, Gabrielson aims to educate a new generation about the importance of American-made fashion. By involving kids in the design and manufacturing process, the club offers a hands-on experience that contrasts with the mass-produced clothing available at fast-fashion retailers. Through their involvement in the Fashion Club, students learn about the value of creating their own clothes.
The Fashion Club at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Academy provides students with the opportunity to showcase their designs in a fashion show, allowing them to model their creations and practice their runway walks. The excitement and enthusiasm of the young designers are evident as they prepare for this event, with each student bringing their unique perspective and style to their designs. The Fashion Club serves as a stepping stone for these aspiring designers, giving them a taste of the creative process and igniting their passion for fashion. The future looks bright for these budding designers who may one day grace the runways of New York City Fashion Week with their innovative designs and fresh perspectives.
