Couture Designer Colleen Quen
Designing with Heart, Culture, and Vision
“Let your inspirations guide you, and be prepared to dedicate yourself fully.”
Colleen Quen is a visionary fashion designer whose work seamlessly blends haute couture with Asian artistry, creating designs that are as poetic as they are powerful. With a career spanning decades, she has dressed luminaries in the worlds of fashion, dance, and film, using her craft to celebrate cultural heritage and personal expression. In this interview, Colleen opens up about her journey as an AAPI artist, the challenges she has faced in the fashion industry, and how her identity continues to shape her creative vision. How did your mother influence your passion for fashion design?
My mother, Mary Quen, was my first teacher, mentor, and partner in creativity. She taught me to design, sew, paint, and embroider, and she always encouraged me to be authentic in my art. Growing up with her support allowed me to develop my creative instincts, and she nurtured that drive within me. Her belief in my abilities shaped my journey, teaching me that dedication and support are essential to bringing your artistic vision to life.
How has your Chinese heritage and family history influenced your design philosophy?
My Chinese heritage taught me so much about family, community, and respect. I’m a fourth-generation Chinese American, so I grew up balancing American and Chinese values. Family gatherings were central to my life, and my parents instilled respect for tradition. Later in life, studying Taoism and Qigong deepened my understanding of peace, balance, and harmony—values that helped me approach my work and life with strength and compassion.
You often incorporate natural forms like butterflies into your designs. What do these elements mean to you?
Butterflies have always fascinated me. In Chinese culture, they symbolize longevity, transformation, and beauty. To me, butterflies are magical, reminding me to stay in the moment and continue evolving. They’re symbols of grace and lightness, which are qualities I aim to bring into my work. I see these natural elements as powerful representations of beauty and strength, inspiring me to create pieces that capture their spirit.
Many young designers struggle with balancing trends and authenticity. How do you maintain your unique style in a constantly evolving industry?
I’ve always found my path in couture, where each piece is unique and made-to-measure. This approach allows me to stay authentic and focused, rather than chasing trends. Being a designer is about expressing your vision, even when the industry changes. I remind myself to create with meaning rather than just following what’s popular. For aspiring designers, learning to trusting your voice helps build that foundation of dedication to stay authentic over time.
Fashion design is such a multifaceted field. What should aspiring designers—and their parents—understand about the reality of being a designer?
Fashion design combines art, business, technology, and discipline. You have to know fabrics, colors, and body shapes, and manage technical skills like pattern-making and garment construction. Time management is also essential—staying organized and setting routines keeps you inspired and productive. Fashion is a tough, competitive field, so resilience and dedication are key. Like in sports, you’re not going to win every match or game, and it’s essential to learn from setbacks. Parents can help by encouraging their kids to develop a routine, understand the value of persistence, and view challenges constructively. This support builds a solid foundation of resilience, which is crucial to success.
What advice do you have for young designers who want to pursue fashion as a career?
Find your authentic voice. Fashion design is about showing the world your perspective, so embrace what you naturally love. Let your inspirations guide you, and be prepared to dedicate yourself fully. Creating with intention will make your work resonate with others. Parents can support this journey by encouraging a balance of creativity and discipline, helping young designers build habits that will keep them motivated and dedicated.
What skills and disciplines do you think are crucial for a fashion designer to develop early in their career?
A strong love for color, and fabric, and understanding how clothing interacts with the body is key. Fashion design is like composing music—you need harmony, rhythm, and creativity. Early on, it’s important to develop good time management and structure, which allows you to grow without burnout. Parents can help by fostering a love for learning new skills, which provides a great foundation in this competitive field.
How did your background in computer science impact your work in fashion and art?
My background in computer science made me very organized and analytical, which is essential for running a design business. It’s important to balance creativity with practical skills like organization and business management. Having structure in place allows me to manage every aspect of my work, from designing to fabric selection. For young designers, learning these skills early is valuable, especially if you plan to run your own studio or brand.
How do you handle creative blocks or challenges in the industry?
Creative blocks happen to all of us, and during difficult times like the pandemic, I turned to meditation and Qigong to center myself. Sometimes stepping back, being in nature, or listening to music helps reset inspiration. I encourage young designers to be gentle with themselves and take breaks when needed, as this approach often brings back creativity and energy.
The Full Interview
Colleen Quen’s story is a testament to the resilience and artistry of AAPI creatives who carve out spaces for authentic expression in competitive industries. Through her designs, she not only pushes the boundaries of fashion but also honors the rich traditions that inspire her work. As she continues to create, mentor, and innovate, Colleen remains a beacon for aspiring artists, proving that personal heritage and artistic excellence can beautifully coexist. To explore more of Colleen’s work or connect with her, visit her website, https://www.quenlife.com/, and follow her on social media for updates on her latest creations.
