How Qian Wu’s Journey from Fashion Student to Industry Designer Is Shaping the Future of Functional Fashion
Qian Wu’s approach to fashion is anything but conventional. Growing up in Changsha, China, she developed an early connection to movement—living near Yue Lu Mountain meant daily hikes were a way of life. This rhythm of motion became an integral part of her design perspective, one that continues to shape her work as a designer based in New York City today.
After earning her BFA in Fashion Design and Engineering in 2019, Qian pursued further studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she refined her focus on creating garments that prioritize wearability and functionality without sacrificing style. It wasn’t long before her work started gaining attention—her Spring/Summer 2022 collection was featured at the CFDA showcase, and she was interviewed by 1 Granary, marking an important milestone in her career.
In 2021, Qian launched MOVCREATOR, a label rooted in the philosophy that clothing should move with the wearer, not against them. Unlike traditional fashion design, where garments are fitted on static mannequins, Qian’s process involves draping directly on bodies in motion. Her latest collection, MOVEMENT CREATES, takes this idea to new heights, collaborating with physical therapists to create designs that offer both technical precision and visual appeal. Her goal? To create clothing that feels effortless yet powerful—clothing that adapts, evolves, and becomes an extension of the person wearing it.
For Qian, functional fashion doesn’t have to be plain or predictable. Her designs blur the lines between masculine and feminine, strength and sensuality, precision and fluidity. Whether through ergonomic laser-cut details that enhance ventilation or fabrics that respond to movement, each piece is carefully engineered to be as practical as it is stylish.
Beyond her own label, Qian has built an impressive portfolio working with brands that span different facets of the fashion world. She has contributed to the avant-garde sculptural aesthetics of Melitta Baumeister, the contemporary ready-to-wear sensibility of 3.1 Phillip Lim, and the performance-driven technicality of Ten Thousand. Currently, she’s part of the team at Express, focusing on menswear knit tops—an experience that allows her to merge functionality with mainstream appeal.
Through every role and collection, Qian’s design ethos remains clear: clothing should empower. It should enhance movement, boost confidence, and create a lasting impression that goes beyond first appearances. As she continues to expand her work and vision, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what functional fashion can be.
We spoke with Qian about her experiences, inspirations, and where she sees her design journey heading next.
Reflecting on your journey from student to designer, what has been the most surprising aspect of working in the fashion industry? / What was the biggest challenge you faced transitioning from fashion school to working in the industry?
Qian Wu: The biggest challenge was adjusting to the pace and scale of real-world projects. In school, we had the luxury of time to perfect our designs, but in the industry, tight deadlines and quick decision-making are the norm. For instance, managing production schedules at Melitta Baumeister taught me how to adapt quickly and ensure quality under pressure. Balancing creativity with the practicalities of cost, production, and market trends was initially overwhelming, but it pushed me to become more versatile and resourceful.
You’ve worked across a variety of brands—from the avant-garde style of Melitta Baumeister to the functional focus of Ten Thousand. How have these experiences influenced your approach to design?
Qian Wu: Working across such contrasting brands has deeply shaped my design philosophy. At Melitta Baumeister, I embraced the experimental side of fashion—playing with unconventional silhouettes, textures, and conceptual storytelling. It taught me the power of pushing boundaries and creating pieces that provoke thought and emotion. On the other hand, my time at Ten Thousand grounded me in the importance of functionality and precision. Designing performance-driven apparel requires a focus on practicality, comfort, and technical innovation without compromising style. These experiences have allowed me to develop a balanced approach to design—combining the artistic and experimental with the practical and wearable. I strive to create pieces that are not only visually striking but also serve a purpose in the wearer’s everyday life. This dual perspective has become a cornerstone of my work.
What was it like transitioning from working with high-concept, artistic fashion to more commercially driven brands? Did you encounter any creative challenges in adapting your design style?
Qian Wu: Transitioning from high-concept, artistic fashion to commercially driven brands was both challenging and rewarding. At first, it required a significant mindset shift. With avant-garde fashion, like my work at Melitta Baumeister, the focus was on conceptual expression and creating something visually impactful, often without the constraints of mass production or market appeal. In contrast, working with brands like Ten Thousand demanded a more structured approach—prioritizing functionality, scalability, and the end consumer’s needs. The biggest creative challenge was finding ways to infuse my design identity into commercially viable pieces. It’s easy to feel restricted when working within tighter parameters like budgets, timelines, and market trends. However, I came to see these constraints as opportunities for creative problem-solving. I learned how to innovate within boundaries—designing pieces that are not only functional but also carry a distinct sense of style and uniqueness. Ultimately, this transition has expanded my skill set and given me a deeper appreciation for the balance between artistry and practicality in fashion design. It’s taught me that even commercially driven projects can have a narrative and reflect a designer’s vision when approached thoughtfully.
Was there a defining moment in your career when you felt you had truly found your design voice?
Qian Wu: There was a pivotal moment during my time working on the FW21 collection at 3.1 Phillip Lim. I was deeply involved in the pattern-making and fabric-sourcing process, and I realized how much I enjoyed blending structure with fluidity—creating pieces that felt modern yet timeless. It was the first time I saw my technical skills and conceptual vision come together seamlessly, and seeing the collection on the runway solidified that this approach truly resonated with me. Another defining moment came when I transitioned to Ten Thousand. Designing performance-driven apparel required me to rethink how functionality could coexist with style, which pushed me to refine my design philosophy further. I discovered my voice in the interplay between innovation and practicality, blending the experimental influences from my avant-garde background with my growing passion for utility and wearability. Those experiences taught me that my design voice is about balance—merging the artistic with the practical to create pieces that are purposeful and expressive. It’s a philosophy that continues to guide my work today.
Has your perspective on fashion and its purpose evolved since entering the industry? If so, in what ways?
Qian Wu: Absolutely, my perspective has grown significantly. Early on, I saw fashion primarily as an artistic outlet—a way to express identity and creativity. However, working with brands like Ten Thousand and 3.1 Phillip Lim has shown me how integral functionality and sustainability are to modern design. Fashion, for me now, is about balancing art with purpose, ensuring every piece resonates emotionally while serving practical needs.
With your diverse background, do you see yourself gravitating more toward experimental fashion or functional, everyday wear in the future?
Qian Wu: I see myself exploring a middle ground. My work at Ten Thousand allowed me to delve into functional wear, emphasizing performance and comfort. However, my roots in conceptual designs, as seen in my MFA collection, keep me inspired by experimental fashion. My future lies in merging these two realms, creating pieces that are innovative yet accessible.
Many designers talk about the pressures of balancing creativity with commercial viability. Looking back at your early influences—such as your upbringing in Changsha and your passion for sports—how do those inspirations still find their way into your work today? How do you personally navigate this balance in your work? How do those inspirations still find their way into your work today?
Qian Wu: Growing up in Changsha, I was surrounded by vibrant colors and cultural textures, while my passion for sports introduced me to the importance of functionality. These influences blend into my designs, where I emphasize practical elegance. Navigating creativity and commercial viability is about staying true to a vision while understanding market demands. I constantly seek inspiration from my heritage and lifestyle, ensuring my designs reflect authenticity and purpose.
What has been the most rewarding project you’ve worked on so far, and why?
Qian Wu: One of my most rewarding projects was contributing to the FW21 collection at 3.1 Phillip Lim. It allowed me to refine my skills in pattern making and fabric sourcing while being part of a team that shaped modern yet timeless pieces. Seeing the collection come to life on the runway was a fulfilling experience that validated my creative voice.
What advice would you give to young designers who are about to step into the professional fashion world?
Qian Wu: Stay curious and open to learning. The fashion world is fast-paced, but grounding yourself in strong technical skills and a unique perspective will set you apart. Embrace collaboration, and don’t shy away from challenges—they are the greatest teachers. Most importantly, design with intention and purpose.
What are the key elements you consider when designing functional yet stylish pieces?
Qian Wu: I focus on three elements: comfort, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Each piece should enhance the wearer’s experience, whether through ergonomic design, adaptable features, or a distinct visual identity. Thoughtful fabric selection and construction also play a pivotal role.
Are there specific materials or techniques you’re currently exploring that excite you?
Qian Wu: I’m fascinated by bio-fabricated materials and their potential to revolutionize sustainable design. Techniques like 3D knitting and modular design also excite me because they allow for efficient production while fostering creative possibilities.
What is your ultimate goal as a designer, and what kind of legacy do you hope to leave in the industry?
Qian Wu: My ultimate goal is to create designs that inspire and empower people while championing sustainability and innovation. I hope my legacy reflects a commitment to thoughtful design, bridging the gap between artistry and functionality, and pushing the boundaries of what fashion can achieve.
Can you please tell us what we can expect from you soon?
Qian Wu: I’m excited to explore collaborations that marry innovation with tradition, especially through sustainable initiatives. You can expect collections that continue to challenge norms, integrating cutting-edge techniques with timeless design principles. Stay tuned for a blend of performance-driven pieces and artistic experimentation.
Lastly, if you could describe your design philosophy in just three words, what would they be?
Qian Wu: Intentional, innovative, empowering.
