Craftmanship & Innovation

As a software engineer from India, Ranna moved to San Francisco with a new dream to become a Fashion Designer. Through her designs she aims to find a seamless blend between craftsmanship and innovation in technology. She draws inspiration from different tints and shades of the moodboard called Life. Her geeky glasses sees the unusual in the usual and her subtle couture skills transforms it into beautiful wearable pieces. Precise pattern-making, attention to detail, brave colors and premium fabrics are the hallmarks of her designs.

What should everyone know about you?
RP: I am a San Francisco based Fashion designer specializing in technical design, pattern making and prototype development. I have experience working with many prominent clothing brands including GAP, Le Tote, and Betabrand.

How would you describe what you do?
RP: I offer apparel design services in San Francisco bay area. It’s a one-stop place for all your apparel design needs. I specialize in pattern making and technical design for men’s, women’s and children’s wear. My experience involves working with independent designers/emerging brands to cater them with pattern development, prototype making, grading and tech pack development. In a nutshell, I help you expedite design process, from initial sketch to finished product.

Best/Most Challenging part of your job?
RP: The challenge is to be able to blend creativity and comfort into a beautiful wearable art. As a designer, I always tend to create something unique and standout, and my imagination leads me to many creative ideas. But for clothing, if it’s not comfortable, it’s not creative.

How did you get started in design?
RP: I took fashion design classes to build up my base. But then as creativity has no limits, I wanted to explore things my way, so I hit the road the DIY style. I began to experiment with different fabrics, make new patterns and reconstructing clothes. And my engineering mind helped me understand the art of garment construction, and things then started falling into place.

What do you like about what you do?
RP: I love every aspect of designing. It’s a great experience to bring your imagination to life and share with the world.

What’s a common misconception people have about what you do?
RP: That – “it’s easy.” There is an assumption that it’s for over privilege people playing dress up. But the fact is, it requires very keen technical, analytical and creative skills to build beautiful clothing in this competitive world.

What advice would you give to young designers?
RP: Do not give up, EVER!

What would you like to achieve before the end of the year?
RP: I have already started working on my own label Rayena, and plan to launch it soon.

Learn more about Ranna at StylePortfolios.com and on www.byrayena.com.

This Designer Profile is provided to us by our friends at StylePortfolios.com.  To see more profiles like this OR to create a fashion design portfolio of your own, please visit StylePortfolios.com.