Could a Narciso Rodriguez and Nike collaboration take place in the future? Wearing a Nike jacket, famous fashion designer Narciso Rodriguez said if he were given the technology that Nike has to make his jacket and could work with Nike, he would take the opportunity.
Design technology is just one of the many aspects of design Rodriguez touched on last night. At an event hosted by Penn Design and Penn Fashion Week, Rodriguez — the keynote speaker — was joined by John Hoke, a Penn alumnus and vice president of Global Design at Nike.
Rodriguez, who studied at Parsons The New School for Design, is renowned for his architectural design and focus on craftsmanship. His clients include Sarah Jessica Parker, Rachel Weisz and Michelle Obama.
Rodriguez spoke of his beginnings in design and his design process. He said that growing up, “I wanted to be an architect … I was always making houses out of shoe boxes … I was always eager to build something.” His desire led him to fashion. “I think architecture may have been too tough for me,” he joked.
Concerning his inspiration, Rodriguez said, “I like some influence but in a very abstract way.” Sometimes “the best design time comes on the way to work … when you’re seeing the world around you,” he said.
Rodriguez also revealed that he brings a sketch book with him while running, something Hoke said he does too.
Rodriguez also spoke about design today and its future. He said though there is advancement in fabric and technology, there is greater need for the craft. He added that fashion today is going very fast, to the point where it’s become inexpensive “in the sense that it’s not thought out properly — it’s disposable, it’s not well designed.”
Rodriguez explained that he’s “interested in things that make a lasting impression and last forever. That kind of craft is so beautiful … I think all things should be made beautifully.” He said, “I want her to love [my clothes] five years from now and 10 years from now.”
Students were excited to hear Rodriguez’ point of view. “I loved it, because his design relates to architecture,” said third-year Design student Andrea Gulyas.
Chi Dang, also a third-year Design student, added, “Penn Design emphasizes learning the process of discipline. Bringing in a fashion perspective is new for us, but it’s been happening in other schools.”
Lisa Cohen, Wharton junior and president of Wharton Retail, said, “The other events we’ve had for Fashion Week focused more on the business side of fashion, so it was interesting to go back and hear the design perspective.”
Drexel student Nicole Coombe said, “I felt very lucky to even see him in person. To have the opportunity to hear what he thinks was great.”
