Pornthip Hotarwaisaya, newly graduated from the School of Fashion Design in the US city of Boston, is one of five designers selected for Boston Fashion Week, now under way.
Although modest compared to the globally watched "weeks" in places like New York, London and Milan, the 15th Boston Fashion Week, ending tomorrow, is respected for its innovation, and continues to champion promising talent.
I talked to Pornthip about the inspirations behind her designs, how she's coping with such a life-changing event, and her future in the world of couture.
You've only just graduated - how did you prepare for the challenge of Fashion Week?
I created seven costumes, only thinking what a great experience it would be showing my designs and being part of the event. I never imagined I'd get this far, given my limited experience on the runway.
But I was chosen out of hundreds to be one of the five young designers featured. It was so surreal - everything happened very quickly!
Within the space of a month, my whole life was transformed - by the hectic schedule, interviews, shows and creating a complete collection to present.
How did your family in Thailand react?
My mum cried when I called them with the news.
I told them what I'd been through in the process. When I was in front of all the fashion professionals and the committee, as well as the other contestants, there were moments I just wanted to run away. It was overwhelming - and very competitive.
All of a sudden I was thrown right into this cut-throat world. It's been emotionally and physically challenging. The family just wishes they could be here to support me while I go though this.
Why do you think you were selected?
They chose designers based on their range and diversity. The organisers want to bring newcomers from around the globe into the Boston fashion scene, and I'm the only designer among the five who's from Asia. It brings a whole new and refreshing perspective and set of ideas to the event.
Why did you decide to study fashion in the United States?
I was a schoolteacher, but fashion was something I always loved. I used to help a friend who had a clothing store in Siam Square with designs, and it was fun. I love to create and design.
I took a career break to come to Boston because I have relatives living here. I knew I wanted to study design.
Tell us about your design inspirations.
True fashion design comes naturally from within, I believe. I created a collection of daywear and eveningwear with a timeless, classic theme.
I prefer dark tones. Most of my clothes are black in luxuriously textured fabrics. I like to play with textures and use different materials to bring out their softness.
When I design, I think of things I like to wear often - classic and elegant.
What kind of clientele are you appealing to?
My clothes aren't limited to a specific age group. They're designed for people to feel comfortable in them. If I have to put an age range on the clothes, I'd say from the 20s to the 30s and up.
What was the biggest challenge in creating your Fashion Week collection?
Time! I've had no one helping me. I still do everything myself, and I'm fussy about the little details.
To complete a 12-piece collection in less than a month and have everything ready for the Fashion Week was a huge challenge. I only slept two or three hours a night for weeks!
And what have you learned from the experience?
I learned that if you have passion about what you do, no matter how difficult the path might seem, you'll eventually get where you want to go.
To me, these past few weeks have been incredible. They've sparked all kinds of emotions, from tired and anxious to excited and happy. But I feel I've emerged stronger and more confident.
What are your plans after Fashion Week?
Sleep! [Laughs.]
I want to stay in New England. I've been approached by many people offering to do something with me. I want to walk through all the options before I commit to the next step.
I definitely want to build my expertise and networks in the world of design by working with other professionals. Down the road I aspire to create my own brand.
In this fast-moving and unforgiving profession, it's vital to seize opportunities when they appear, but also to think through the trade-offs and challenges. My path has just begun!