Exploring the Creative Genius of Renowned Designer Anna Sui

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      Anna Sui Discusses Creating an Iconic Brand That Remains Relevant Today | Who What Wear - YouTube

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      From a young age, designer Anna Sui realized her passion for fashion. As a child, she was a flower girl at her aunt and uncle's wedding in New York City. "Once I returned to Michigan, where I grew up, I told my parents, 'I’m going to become a fashion designer and move to New York,'" Sui recounted. In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Sui discusses her beginnings, the inspiration for her latest collection, and more. For highlights from their discussion, scroll down. How were you first introduced to fashion? It's quite the story. I was a flower girl at my aunt and uncle’s wedding in New York City when I was about four or five years old. When I got back home to Michigan, I declared to my parents, “I’m going to be a fashion designer and move to New York someday.” I spent my entire childhood and early teenage years trying to understand what that meant and how to achieve it.

      Anna Sui Ombre Ribbons Cotton Ruffle Dress

      You attended Parsons School of Design but didn’t finish your degree. You dropped out. Do you think leaving school early allowed you to learn more quickly? I got my first job at the end of my second year. I overheard seniors discussing a job opening at a brand I loved. I rushed over with my student portfolio and landed the job. It was incredibly valuable because the designer, Erika Elias, was known for being the toughest boss in the industry. She was very demanding, yet I learned so much about sourcing fabrics. I was given my own design studio, along with a draper and two sewers, which allowed me to learn the ropes of designing right on the spot.

      Anna Sui Heritage Scarf Midi Skirt Set

      What advice would you give to your younger self starting out in fashion? I actually appreciated not knowing what I was doing because it instilled a sense of fearlessness in me. Since I wasn’t aware of potential pitfalls, I think that’s something to keep in mind. Don’t let your worries or fears hold you back; just go for it. You create your own barriers. It’s when you hesitate that you miss out. You have to take the plunge and find a way forward; if you receive a ‘no,’ look for another route until you can get to a ‘yes.’

      Anna Sui Purple & Off-White Medallion Floral Lace Tie Blouse

      Let’s talk about your [spring 2026] collection. What inspired that? I was inspired by Lady Chatterley’s Lover featuring Emma Corrin. I adored the costuming in that film. Additionally, her character evolved from a very traditional Victorian wife to someone who became undone after falling for a man who worked on their estate, which reflected in her disheveled clothing. I wanted the models to appear as if they had just rolled in the hay.

      The hair was tousled, the outfits looked wrinkled and untidy, adding to the sensuous vibe. The exciting part of putting the collection together was capturing that essence and feeling.

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.