When you meet Yana Kalaw in person, and assuming she's dressed as she usually is, you'll be greeted by bold color blocking, unapologetic cut-outs, and possibly one of her signature faux fur hats. A fashionista by nature, she's always embraced maximalist motifs, not just with her personal outfits but with the pieces she designs for her namesake label. Her furry creations have been spotted on stylistas who aren't afraid of a little quirkiness, our January 2024 cover star Melai Cantiveros included.
Ahead, read Preview's exclusive interview with Yana as she shares about how she started as a designer and where she dreams of going next.
Creative Spotlight: Yana Kalaw on Her Journey as a Fashion Designer
Did you always know that you wanted to be a fashion designer when you were younger? When did your interest in fashion start?
"I only realized that I wanted to be a fashion designer later in life, but I always knew that I wanted to do something creative. My grandfather was an architect, and I’ve always been fascinated with the houses he designed."
"When I was a kid, I always loved dressing up. I was very vocal about what clothes I wanted to wear. I have this certain love for mixing textures and colors. I love clothes in general. I never really thought it was possible for me to become [a designer] until I designed an outfit during my senior year of high school."
"Fast forward to college, I took up clothing technology in UP, and I loved the idea [of being] part of this industry. I honestly didn't mind if I would [end up in] the business side or creative side of fashion, I just wanted to be part of it. What truly cemented my path to being a designer was when Ma’am Mich Dulce, our professor, liked my designs in one of my classes. That truly gave me the push, [and assured that] designing was something I really wanted to do."
How would you personally describe your designs? What drew you to designing fur pieces in general?
"My designs are maximalist in nature. I want my clients to be happy when they wear my work. Yana K. is a maximalist brand that creates experimental fashion for all. It is a continuous process of designs and manipulations. Yana K. is sensual, [and it showcases] the inner femininity of a person."
"Soon, I will be releasing clothing that will showcase the [more] hubadera side of my designs, [with a maximalist touch]. [It will be] feminine but edgy, [and will] celebrate the body."
What are the main inspirations you pull from when creating your pieces? Can you walk us through your thought process when designing?
"I love telling stories through my pieces. I love using fabrics that aren’t normally used. I really gravitate towards mixing different textures. When I see a fabric that I love, I really try my best to incorporate it [in my designs and to make it] shine through."
How long does it take to create one of your signature furry hats? What special materials do you use to construct a piece?
"My usual delivery time for pieces is two to four weeks! Depending on the design, I usually use metal wires for more structured pieces."
There’s been a longstanding discussion about the use of fur in fashion. How do you practice sustainable and ethical methods when creating your pieces?
"The goal has always been to make hats and clothing that lasts. In order to lessen overconsumption, we are only on pre-order basis with the help of our wonderful sewers. It’s also important to me that I pay my workers fairly."
"I am [dedicated] to creating one-of-one pieces using scrap faux fur fabrics that I’ve collected. The goal has always been to innovate. I started with faux fur, but my goal is to find alternative fabrics that are more sustainable but still have the fun aspect that fur has."
Who is the muse you have in mind for Yana Kalaw? What are their characteristics and how do they approach dressing up?
"The muses of Yana K. are people who love to experiment with colors and textures, those who are not afraid to be seen. They are those who want to embrace their quirky side and have fun."
Is there one rule or value you always stick to when making your creations? What pushes you to keep pursuing your craft?
"There’s this one quote from Princess Diaries that I try my best to live by: 'Courage is not the absence of fear but rather a judgment that something else is more important than fear.'"
"I never really expected that people would love the pieces I make. But as I create my pieces more and more, I always remember how much I love it. I love sharing my work to the world. It makes me happy."
Where do you hope your career as a designer takes you? What are your goals for your work?
"As a designer, my goal is to build the brand as I venture into [designing] clothing, and not just accessories. The dream is to showcase my works on a runway soon. There’s more to Yana K. Studios than fur and I am super excited to share my upcoming works this year."
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