Ever had an idea for an article of clothing that would be really cool but didn’t know how to make it happen? Time to take a tip or two from Michigan State University graphic design senior, Khella Young. At 21 years old she creates her own graphic designs and makes handmade screen printed graphic clothes for her friends. She’ll be graduating soon and has been working hard on re-launching her latest project!
Name: Khella Young
Role: Graphic Designer
CollegeFashionista: How did you get started doing graphic design?
Khella Young: I started off in college as an Athletic Training major, then switched to Kinesiology to become a Sports Psychologist. Then at the end of my sophomore year, I said to myself “I like art. Why am I not pursuing an art career?!” So I switched to Studio Art my junior year and it’s been great ever since. I became interested in graphic design once I decided to create Island of Misfits (For the Misfit, currently). I didn’t know too much about Photoshop and I wanted to be able to make my own clothes without the help of someone else.
CF: How did you come up with the idea to start Island of Misfits?
KY: I was on Instagram once and I saw a graffiti piece by Chris Brown of this bear that he painted on the wall of his house. I decided to revamp it and make it my own. My friends really supported the idea of starting my own clothing line so I ran with it. The meaning behind Island of Misfits is really based on the Island of Misfit Toys, that’s why my bear looks so distressed in some designs.
CF: Has anyone or anything been a major influence on this project?
KY: Well besides the drawing by Chris Brown, it’s really been myself, my friends and my surroundings. I base my designs off of the things and people I’m around every day. FTM is really an urban brand and very hip hop based. A lot of my designs are based on what I think people would like to wear and style other brands with. It’s a brand for the people. I take a lot of suggestions on what other people would like to see in upcoming designs. I have designs that connect with different types of people from all different areas, and that’s what I like.
CF: Do you hope to continue this project after graduation?
KY: Yes I would. Things got somewhat hectic during these last two years of school but I’ve been doing a lot of rebranding. I’ve been working on new designs, new approaches to advertising and media, a new name: For the Misfit and a lot more. I hope to have For the Misfit up and running summer/fall 2015,
Learn More: To keep up with Khella and her projects, check her out here.
