Meet Jean Okada, Design Director for Outerwear at Aritzia as she shares her experience and passion since graduating from the Fashion and Technology program here at The Wilson School of Design.
The Wilson School of Design’s Bachelor of Design, Fashion Design & Technology program has an international reputation for building tomorrow’s fashion leaders.
We have the longest-running four-year degree program in Western Canada. Many of our graduates hold innovative positions in local apparel and design companies in place well before graduation.
Jean OkadaI find inspiration through nature, through culture, music, creative communities. Inspiration is everywhere.
“My name is Jean Okada, and I went to KPU Wilson School of Design for Fashion Design and Technology. I’ve been designing in the industry for 18 years now. I’m currently the Design Director for Outerwear at Aritzia. I design the puffy jackets and I also do some freelance costume design.”
“I discovered my passion for fashion design pretty early. I’ve always loved sewing, and creating patterns.”
“KPU Wilson School of Design really set me up to work in the industry and be adaptable in the job market.”
“There are lots of ups and downs in the industry, of course. There can be some long nights. There can be last-minute changes and lots of different feedback. You know, the program really helped me to manage my time. That’s such an important skill.”
“One of the biggest things I got from this program was learning the business side and the technical aspects of fashion design. On the business side, the big takeaway was presenting and selling your ideas and concepts. On the technical side, presenting your sketches in a technical way to communicate your ideas.”
“I love so much about my job, but one of my favourite things is creating the direction from season to season and how to keep things fresh and exciting for the customer.”
“The design industry is constantly evolving and there’s gonna be roles and exciting opportunities that don’t exist yet. So don’t be afraid to create these possibilities, connect with people, take risks, and explore your creativity in this program.”
