Fashion is no longer just a trend; it’s a way of life. For many designers out there, fashion is a chance to fulfill a dream—a dream that is filled with vibrant colors. Jade Moua is one of those chasing the fashion dream.

In high school Jade had wanted to be involved in fashion design, but never really pursued it. In 2001-2002, she took part of the Merced Hmong New Year where she was crowned Merced’s Miss Hmong Year. That win gave her the confidence to pursue a career in fashion. A decision she wouldn’t regret. Sometimes we all need that nudge to pursue a dream.

This California designer is the face behind Jade Lush Designs and recently released her Lost Rainbow design. A design that uses all sorts of different colors to allow each piece to stand out on its own. What I really liked about the designs is that each piece allows the woman that wears it to not only feel beautiful, but look graceful while doing it.

I recently had the opportunity to meet up with Jade Moua and get some insight into her fashion mind.

Hmoodle: I’m here with fashion designer Jade Moua of Jade Lush Designs. How are you doing today?

Jade: I’m doing great today. Thank you for asking.

Hmoodle: Now, for our readers who aren’t familiar with you and your work, why don’t you tell us a bit about yourself?

Jade: Well, for those who don’t know me, here is some info about me. I was born in Santa Ana, California, but I spent most of my childhood living in a small town called Willows, which is also located in California. After graduating from high school in Merced, CA I went to a vocational college named Brooks College in Sunnyvale, CA and graduated with an Associates Degree 2007 majoring in Fashion Designs. Ever since then I’ve been designing and been working on building my brand Jade Lush Designs.

Hmoodle: How long have you been doing fashion design?

Jade: It wasn’t until I went to school for designing that I truly learned how to design, which was about five years ago.

Hmoodle: When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?

Jade: I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer during my high school years, but I just wasn’t sure if I really wanted to pursue it. I knew how difficult and challenging finding a job in the fashion field would be.

Hmoodle: Were you creative as a kid?

Jade: Was I a creative when I was a kid? Yes, I have to say I was very creative as a child. As a child, I always loved designing clothes for my dolls and my Barbies. My mom always made the girls do Hmong stitch sewing, which I think really helped me in the creative area, but I believe it wasn’t just designing clothes and hand sewing that helped make me creative. I’m also very passionate about art. Art allowed me explore more about colors, shades, shapes, etc.

Hmoodle: How would you describe your designs?

Jade: When I’m designing, I like to keep in my mind to design something different, unique, sexy, but not overly dramatic, modern, etc, but most of all, I would describe my designs as a piece of clothing that a woman can put on and feel beautiful and sexy.

Hmoodle: Do you focus primarily on women clothing? If so, do you plan to design menswear?

Jade: Yes, yes. I’ve been asked by many guys about designing for men, but at this time my whole focus is on women clothing. Very sorry guys, but maybe someday in the future it is something I can work on. Believe it or not designing men’s clothing is more difficult than women. I would really have to study into constructing menswear if I start designing for men.   I honestly can’t say when, but most likely it would be more so after developing my brand Jade Lush Designs.

Hmoodle: Are there any fashion designers that inspire your work?

Jade: Oh yes, there are plenty of designers, but one that I truly, truly admire is Alexander McQueen. He’s truly one of the best designers I’ve ever seen. His style is beautiful and unique.

Hmoodle: I’ve seen a few episodes of the TV Series “Project Runway”. Is fashion design as cutthroat as they make it seem?

Jade: Yes, it is! Actually, I think they make it seem like its a little bit easier then how I think I would probably be if it was me on the show. Designing, drafting the actual patterns, finding the right type of fabric in a limited time, fitting the model, etc. is very difficult and to complete all that in a day or two just adds more difficulties. It just doesn’t look like it, but it truly is when you put yourself into those shoes.

Hmoodle: If you could design an outfit for one person, who would it be and why?

Jade: You know, I’ve never really thought about that. I guess I will have to get back to you on that one. <laughs>

Hmoodle: What was the first piece you designed? Do you still have it?

Jade: The first real piece that I created is a dress using chiffon fabric with tiger print designs and yes, I still do have it, however I am working on selling that piece soon too.

Hmoodle: What advice would you give to someone who was interested in becoming a fashion designer?

Jade: I don’t want to discourage anyone who wants to be a designer, especially if they’re talented in the field, but all I’ll say is that fashion design is a very competitive field. Make sure you’ll have enough strength and energy to deal with the difficult times especially if you don’t have a supportive family or friends. However, if you know that you are a great fashion designer then definitely work hard and don’t let anyone make you feel like you can’t do it.

Hmoodle: What was like seeing your designs on the runway for the very first time?

Jade: All I remember thinking was “WOW! Did I really make that?!” Funny thing was, when I started designing clothes, I didn’t have a model to fit or try it on my clothes so I never really saw, or had any idea how the dress would look on a actual human other than just a mannequin, but when I did, I was just stunned and in awe!

Hmoodle: Do your designs evolve with the ever changing fashion trends? Is it difficult to keep up with?

Jade: You know, to me, since I’m not exactly working in the fashion field I do like to keep up with the fashion trends, but I don’t always design based on that year’s fashion trends. I tend to just design to whatever that comes to mind.

Hmoodle: Do you have any fashion shows coming up so that people can see your designs in person?

Jade: I’ve been invited to a few, but right now I’m not taking much interest in designing for a fashion show. I want to focus on working on a summer line to sell before I start doing more fashion shows again, but I do love fashion shows.

Hmoodle: If people can’t make it to a fashion show, where can they get a peak at your designs and are they available for purchase?

Jade: They can definitely view my Myspace page http://www.myspace.com/jadelushdesign. As for purchasing my clothes, I don’t have my own website yet. However, I am planning to change that in the near future, but for now you can definitely purchase my clothes at http://www.etsy.com/shop/jadelushdesigns or you can contact me directly if you’ve seen a piece that you like at jadelushdedsigns@hotmail.com.

Hmoodle: I want to thank you once again for participating with Hmoodle. We appreciate it very much. Do you have any last words for our readers?

Jade: Thank you for having me. I appreciate it very much. To your readers, thanks as well. Please to visit my websites and give Jade Lush Designs some support.

When I think of the word fashionista, I think Jade Moua. She definitely has the eye for fashion and the ability to make fashion that doesn’t make you cringe. I foresee the Jade Lush tag on many dresses in the near future.

I want to thank Jade Moua for taking part of Hmoodle. I know you are working hard at your summer line, so for you do this is appreciated. To our readers, show your support. Buy a dress and spread the word of Jade Lush designs.

We at Hmoodle would love to put the spotlight on young and upcoming fashion designers out there. So if you want to be featured, feel free to contact me at RyanM@hmoodle.com (Ryan Madland)

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