In a recent episode of the Tamron Hall Show, viewers were introduced to Matthew J. Williams, a 2024 graduate of 5XÉçÇø's School of Fashion with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in fashion design. Williams’ journey highlights the powerful influence of family and personal experiences in shaping his creative vision, a reflection of a growing trend among emerging designers who blend personal narratives with innovative design. Williams received two foundation scholarships during his time at Kent State, further supporting his academic and creative pursuits. His talent was also on display in the 2024 Annual Fashion Show, where he won two prestigious awards: Special Occasions and Student's Choice. Learn more about our annual fashion show here.
The Tamron Hall Show Experience
During his appearance on the show, Williams shared his design philosophy and how his upbringing shaped his aesthetic. His unique blend of contemporary styles and personal storytelling sets him apart in a competitive industry. Tamron Hall highlighted Williams' ability to capture emotion and narrative in his creations, a skill he attributes to his mother’s influence.
As he embarks on his post-graduate journey, we checked in on Williams with a few questions:
Can you share a bit about your journey into fashion design? What sparked your interest?
From a young age, I was always hands-on, constantly engaged in activities that sparked my creativity, whether it was drawing, building with Lego bricks or designing elaborate mansions in Minecraft. I started designing around the age of 13, beginning with custom t-shirts using vinyl. But soon, I wanted to go beyond just placing logos on shirts. That’s when I took my first sewing class in an after-school program, which led me to create my first dress. After that, I realized this was my true passion and the career path I wanted to pursue.
What drew you to 5XÉçÇø for your fashion design studies?
Before deciding on where to attend college, I participated in Kent State School of Fashion summer program. Initially, I was hesitant to attend an all-arts school because I was considering a double major in electrical engineering. However, I soon realized that managing both majors simultaneously would be overwhelming due to the heavy workload each required. After experiencing the summer program and learning that Kent State was one of the top fashion schools, I felt it was the best option for me at the time.
Can you share some of the most valuable lessons you learned during your time at Kent State?
One of the most valuable lessons I learned at Kent State is the importance of networking in the fashion industry. Fortunately, I was able to build strong friendships with supportive people. I believe that the company you keep plays a significant role in shaping who you are, whether you realize it or not.
How would you describe your design style? What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your work?
My design style is highly experimental, focusing on shapes to create bold, space-occupying silhouettes. Every piece I create tells a story. As a designer, my goal is to evoke an emotional response from the viewer when they see one of my garments. While each collection has its own distinct theme or narrative, the key lies in how it’s presented to the public. For me, fashion is not just about clothing—it's about storytelling and emotional connection through visual impact.
How did your experience as a student prepare you for the challenges of the fashion industry?
Producing a full collection on my own gave me a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of the design process. It pushed me to tackle tasks I didn’t initially enjoy and learn from them. Those experiences have made things easier now, because in the fashion industry, you're working as part of a team, which means the weight of an entire collection isn't solely on your shoulders. Having gone through the process myself, I now have a deeper appreciation for each step and how collaboration can streamline the workflow.
Can you tell us about your study away experience(s) through the School of Fashion at Kent State? How did that opportunity help shape your career path?
I studied in Paris for a full year at the 5XÉçÇø Paris Center, where I had the privilege of learning from some of the best professors I’ve ever encountered. They challenged me in ways that were unfamiliar, pushing me to explore my creativity and bring my designs to life. This experience was crucial in helping me define my design style and clarifying the direction I wanted to take in my career. The exposure to Parisian fashion culture and the intense focus on technique and craftsmanship allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of my creative vision. It solidified my passion for creating couture for both menswear and womenswear, shaping my focus as a designer moving forward.
How do you envision the future of fashion design, especially for emerging designers like yourself?
I envision the future of fashion design as incredibly bright, especially for emerging designers. With so many fresh, unique voices coming onto the scene, there’s an exciting wave of innovation and creativity that’s pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion. Emerging designers today have a platform to express their distinct perspectives and challenge norms, whether through sustainable practices, technology integration or new forms of craftsmanship. I believe the future will celebrate diversity in both style and storytelling, allowing designers like myself to make a lasting impact by bringing something fresh and meaningful to the industry.
What advice would you give to young designers trying to break into the industry?
I would advise young designers trying to break into the industry to always trust their instincts. While it’s important to consider feedback from others, ultimately, your design reflects your unique perspective, and not everyone will understand it. So, keep pushing forward and stay committed to your vision. Additionally, fashion requires a lot of patience; success doesn’t happen overnight. It may take years of hard work and perseverance, but it's crucial to keep going, no matter the obstacles. Stay dedicated, and your efforts will pay off in time!
Matthew’s journey is one to watch, as he brings fresh perspectives and innovative designs to the forefront of the industry. Follow along on Instagram at @matthewjowilliams or @matthewwjoseph