Debbie Kim’s CFDA Scholarship Journey

The Journey Begins. Every fashion school student dreams of applying for the CFDA Scholarship Award during their sixth semester. This prestigious competition is a milestone for aspiring fashion designers, often envisioned from the moment they step into their first class.

I had known about the competition since I entered the school in my first year. During winter break, I immersed myself in sketching and creating journals for the CFDA competition. At that time, my focus was on menswear and tailoring. I designed around 30 thumbnails inspired by classic men’s suits and hunting jackets, pouring my creativity into every detail.

Day one…On the first day of class that semester, I eagerly presented my thumbnails to Professor Susana Moyer. Her feedback remains vivid in my memory: “Debbie, your thumbnails and drawings are beautiful, but they feel like something anyone could create. You need to add something only you can bring to the table—a story that only you can tell.”

Her words were unexpected and challenging. While I had pride in my work, I realized she was right. Classic menswear and tailored designs could indeed feel generic without a personal touch. That moment pushed me to reflect deeply on what made my perspective unique.

Inspiration…I began asking myself why I was so drawn to menswear and tailoring. The answer was my mom. As the first female firefighter and fire chief in Korea, she was a trailblazer—a monumentally significant figure. She had a distinct and stylish presence, always wearing androgynous suits and shopping in men’s departments. Her influence on me was undeniable. She was not only my role model but also the reason I loved structured tailoring over softer silhouettes.

Inspired by her story, I reimagined my collection. I incorporated themes from firefighters’ performance wear, blending functionality with tailored aesthetics. I started a new journal that documented her personality, style, and experiences raising my brother and me as a single mother. Professor Moyer was thrilled with the direction I had taken. She suggested adding subtle yet impactful details like neon trims and threads, echoing the reflective elements found in firefighters’ uniforms.

Transformation…With this transformation, I became a finalist for the CFDA Scholarship Award, proudly representing the Fashion Institute of Technology. I’m incredibly grateful to Professor Moyer for her guidance. She remained my mentor long after graduation, always encouraging me to “Be bold, Debbie!”

Today, as a textile designer creating biodegradable materials like bioplastics and natural-dyed barley grass fur, her advice continues to guide me. Her lesson—"create something only you can tell"—has become a principle I carry in both my work and life.

Here is my website if you need to add: https://www.ddc63.com/