UCOF Instructor
Elena Luciani
Elena Luciani is a seasoned designer with an impressive 45 years of sewing experience and a thriving sewing circle. She has mentored over 30 students who have transitioned into accomplished fashion designers and seamstresses.
Elena is also winner of third place in the Viewers' choice Award for Saint John during the 2023 UCOF Fall Fashion
Festival (Tri-city Event).
Interview with UCOF Instructor Elena: Celebrating "Fashion without Borders"
Elena Luciani, a seasoned designer with an impressive 45 years of sewing experience and a thriving sewing circle. Having mentored over 30 students who have transitioned into accomplished fashion designers and seamstresses, Elena's journey began at the tender age of 11 when she crafted her first apron under her grandmother's guidance. Her passion for sewing led her to formal education, including studies at the school of modeling, sewing, and fashion design at 16, followed by a degree in Design Engineering. With a rich background as an international lecturer and involvement in significant projects, Elena currently collaborates with United Colours of Fashion, as an Instructor, imparting her expertise and teaching individuals how to construct basic patterns and innovate clothing styles.
Q: Can you tell us what "Fashion without Borders" means and why it's important?
Elena: "Fashion without Borders" means that in fashion, there are no strict rules or limits. It's about being creative and making cool clothes that everyone can like, no matter where they're from. It's important because it shows that fashion can bring people together from all over the world.
Q: You teach new designers at the UCOF Fashion Hub. What do you do to help them learn about fashion?
Elena: When I teach new designers, I help them learn how to make clothes and use their ideas. I show them how to make things pretty and how to be confident. I also cheer them on when they want to show their clothes to lots of people.
Q: You are also a designer in the UCOF Fall Fashion Festival. How does that make you feel?
Elena: It makes me feel happy and excited! I get to make my own special clothes and show them on the runway at the festival. It's a special time when I can show my designs to lots of people.
Q: How does being a designer help you when you teach others about fashion?
Elena: Being a designer helps me understand how hard it can be sometimes. I know what it feels like when you want to make something cool. So, when I teach, I can help my students because I know how they feel.
Q: What do you want to say to kids who want to make their own fashion like "Fashion without Borders"?
Elena: I would say to kids, don't be scared to try new things with your fashion. You can use your own ideas and make clothes that you really like. Fashion can make people happy and bring them together. So, just have fun and try your best!
Q: Can you tell us what your designs will look like at the UCOF Fall Fashion Festival?
Elena: My designs at the festival will look special. They will have different things mixed together, like colors and patterns. Each design will be like a story, and I hope kids and grown-ups will like them.
Q: Is there anything else you want to say about the UCOF Fall Fashion Festival and "Fashion without Borders"?
Elena: The festival is a super fun time where everyone can enjoy fashion and be happy. "Fashion without Borders" is about how fashion can make friends and show how cool and different we all are. I'm so excited to be part of it and show everyone my designs!
Q: Thank you, Elena, for talking with us and sharing your love for "Fashion without Borders." We can't wait to see your designs at the UCOF Fall Fashion Festival!
Elena: Thank you! I'm super happy to talk with you, and I can't wait to show everyone my special designs at the festival!