
Mia Cong
/Show Day
Apr 14, 2023
/Social Media
Born in Beijing, China, I am a creative and innovative fashion design major who attended the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. With a detail-oriented approach, I possess extensive knowledge of fashion design, the industry, and fashion software programs. I graduated with a BFA degree in May 2022 and showcased four sets of clothes during the graduation runway that appeared in Vogue magazine. Following my success, I returned to Vancouver to live and prepare for postgraduate study. For me, fashion is more than just clothes - it's a powerful means of self-expression and connection to the world around us. My collections are inspired by the current state of people in the world and often reflect the status and mood of these individuals as a central theme. My ultimate goal is to create clothing that resonates with people on a deeper level, helping them feel seen and heard.
Collection Description:
The collection draws inspiration from the moody and atmospheric streets of a foggy metropolis, set in the year 2033 where a lack of sunshine and unpredictable weather patterns have led to a society focused on basic survival. With worn-out clothes sewn together and oversized garments to hide their thin bodies, people's emaciated faces are covered with coal dust. Despite their circumstances, they have put thought into their hairstyles and clothing, resulting in avant-garde elements mixed with a sense of starvation. The collection features pieces that evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, with layers and textures that capture the damp and ethereal feeling of a foggy day.
PREVIOUS COLLECTIONS
What inspired you to become a fashion designer?
An interest in art and drawing began at around five years old and continued through years of art classes and creative exploration. Fashion later became a way to express ideas, connect with the world, and create designs that help people feel seen and heard.
How would you describe your design style?
The design aesthetic combines innovation and visual impact with practicality and functionality. Bold colours and unconventional shapes are often used to create distinctive pieces while still considering the needs of the wearer.
What can people expect from your “Hazy Urbanites” collection?
“Hazy Urbanites” imagines a dystopian 2033 shaped by limited sunlight and unpredictable weather. The collection combines avant-garde elements with denim, atmospheric colours, and upcycling techniques to create a moody vision while drawing attention to environmental responsibility.
Why does sustainability play an important role in your collections?
Many of the collections explore environmental protection, with the goal of creating fashion that can have a more positive impact on the planet. “Hazy Urbanites,” for example, incorporated eco-friendly denim and upcycling techniques to give old materials new life.
How do you balance creativity with the practical side of fashion design?
Moving from fashion school into the professional industry introduced new considerations such as commercial viability, market demand, functionality, and customer needs. The challenge is to balance those realities with creative expression without losing the original design vision.





