Celebrating Dame Zandra Rhodes: A Fashion Icon inducted into KSU School of Fashion Hall of Fame

The prestigious Kent State University School of Fashion recently inducted British fashion designer Dame Zandra Rhodes into its 35th Hall of Fame during Fashion Week 2024. Rhodes joins an esteemed list of previous inductees, including renowned names such as Omar Salam, Kenneth Cole, Estee Lauder, and Oscar de la Renta. The induction ceremony was part of a week full of events at KSU School of Fashion, which included the annual student fashion show and lectures from industry experts on the future of fashion.

One of the highlights of the week was the presence of renowned fashion designer Anna Sui, who attended as a special guest to support her long-time friend, Zandra Rhodes. The two designers have a history that dates back to 1974 when they met at Rhodes’ first fashion show in New York. Sui reminisced about their first encounter and how it led to a lasting friendship that has spanned decades.

During the week’s events, I had the opportunity to ride with Dame Zandra Rhodes and Anna Sui and conduct an exclusive interview with them. Our conversation touched on various topics, including the evolving landscape of the fashion industry, the influence of celebrities on fashion trends, and the legacy that both designers hope to leave behind. Rhodes shared stories about dressing celebrities like Zsa Zsa Gabor and designing for iconic figures like Barbra Streisand, while Sui discussed the joy of seeing people wear and enjoy her creations.

As we made our way to the Cleveland Museum of Art to visit the Korean Couture: Generations of Revolution exhibit, Rhodes and Sui shared their favorite artists and reflected on the impact they hope to have on the fashion world. Their insights and perspectives provided a glimpse into the creative minds of two of the industry’s most influential designers.

The interview with Zandra Rhodes and Anna Sui offered a unique and inspiring look into the world of fashion, highlighting the importance of creativity, inspiration, and the enduring influence of celebrity culture. Their candid and humorous responses showcased their passion for design and their commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in the fashion industry. Overall, the conversation was a testament to the power of friendship, creativity, and innovation in shaping the world of fashion.