The Show designer spotlight: SiiLi by Julianne Mo

Fourth-year Kwantlen Polytechnic University fashion design student Julianne Mo’s latest collection is a line inspired by children’s books, and made for those who still read them.

SiiLi is a comfortably delightful outdoor-play clothing line for adventurous boys aged 4 to 8. It features clothes that combine the wonderment of childhood with style and functionality.

SiiLi will be unveiled at The Show, presented by Tamoda Apparel, on April 24 at the River Rock Casino. Thirty-six other lines by Kwantlen Polytechnic University fashion students will also be showcased. See kpu.ca/theshow2014 for event details.

Erin Robertson: Describe your collection to us.

Julianne Mo:  A whimsical world where children’s imaginations come to life—that’s the backdrop for SiiLi. The collection combines technical functionality with spirited designs. Whatever the weather, we want to explore outdoors.

ER: What was your inspiration for this collection?

I was especially inspired by children's books. SiiLi is dedicated to creating clothes that empower a child's curiosity and connection to the natural world.

JM: If your collection had a soundtrack, what types of songs would accompany it?

It would be a playlist of upbeat indie songs—the kinds of songs you listen to on road trips and when you’re out camping in the woods.

ER: What is your favourite piece in the collection?

JM: That would be a piece called ‘Narnia’. Can you tell I've been working on children’s wear for way too long?

ER: What was your favourite children’s book growing up?

Where the Wild Things Are. It was actually a major source of inspiration for the collection.

ER: What are your plans after you graduate?

JM: Somewhere between graduating and growing up, I'd like to fit in some traveling. I'm currently working for Arc'teryx and hope to continue to work with the company after I graduate. There is so much to learn in the industry and I look forward to any opportunities that come my way.