Introducing Julian Chang : Fashion's Full Spectrum Icon

INTRODUCTION

Meet Julian Chang, a Peruvian-born mega-designer who hails from Miami, where he graduated from Miami International University of Art and Design with a B.A. in Fashion Design. After graduation, quickfire success as an assistant designer for a large manufacturer allowed him to premier his own line, which has become wildly successful internationally as well as at home. Having designed for the likes of Gloria Estefan and Britney Spears, Chang has quickly become an in-demand designer in the industry as well as alucrative staple in households around the globe. With Chang, the issue of whether the garment will fit and look good no longer exists, it’s more of a, “this looks amazing. Can I order seven more of the same thing, and five more of everything else in the lookbook?!” So, ladies. Get ready to know your new fashion BFF.

You grew up in Peru. Would you say that you were influenced in your career by the incredible culture you grew up in? 

My primary influences were more related to my family's work ethic than the general culture in Peru.  However, I was exposed to the fashion industry very early in Peru because my sister was a model and my mother a seamstress...that had a big impact because I saw the possibilities of creating beautiful things that made people happy and feel good about themselves. At what moment in your life did you decide you wanted to become a fashion designer? As a young boy. The excitement of seeing my sister on the runway, and the beautiful fashions my mother was creating excited my creativity, and I just knew that I would be a designer!

What made you want to take that career path? 

Was it always something you wanted to do? Absolutely!  As far back as I can remember I have wanted to be a fashion designer.

Your bio says that you are majorly influenced by Miami's lifestyle/culture, as well as travel. What part of the lifestyle would you say influences the most? 

The glamour, sexiness and excitement of Miami Beach, and the rapid growth of the business community in Miami are major influences for me.  Being able to create in such a vibrant atmosphere, and be surrounded by the excitement and celebrity of Miami nightlife are stimulants for my creativity.

The Taylor Dress is incredibly versatile, as well as wonderfully chic. What was your inspiration behind it?

I was inspired by the desire to take a men's tailored shirt and combine it with a feminine touch in a timeless way.

For women reading this article, how would you say the Taylor Dress could be transitioned effortlessly from day to night?

Accessories will create the transition. For example; a colorful scarf would be a daytime look, while a beaded belt and heels will create an evening outfit.

What are some different ways that you yourself, as the designer, would go about styling the dress? 

It would be fun to add a biker's leather jacket with boots to create downtown look, or you could pair it with a white blazer for a more sophisticated look.

What are ten pieces of clothing that every woman should have in their closets, and why?

In no particular order: White button-down shirt; high waisted shirt, Julian Chang jumpsuit ; white tuxedo jacket; black Taylor dress; black slacks; great fitting jeans; cashmere sweater; grey shawl; biker jacket, because all these pieces will coordinate well to create multiple looks.

You have been featured in lucrative publications such as Cosmopolitan, Lucky, Vogue and Vanidades. How would you describe the feeling when you found out you were featured? 

It was very gratifying to know that such prestigious publications recognized my work and contributions to the fashion industry. It made me feel good to know that my styles would be exposed to an even larger number of women.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received, and how has it impacted your career and helped you achieve massive success?

Do what you enjoy and stay focused.  Both elements have enabled me to continue to grow and evolve as a designer while having fun at the same time.