Tan and Gigi advise Xavier on the show.
Courtesy of Netflix
It was at SCAD that Xavier honed his design skills and discovered his aesthetic—a focus on upcycling existing garments, with denim being a frequently used material. But how would a designer describe his work? “I grew up with no money, so despite being inspired by names like Yves Saint Laurent and Rick Owens, I had to find clever ways to transform the clothes in my wardrobe and make clothes I wanted to wear— Even my shoes,” he said. “However, this struggle led me to find my vibe, which I describe as raw and free-flowing, but with an inherent nostalgia – I wanted to combine old and new to create my own world.”
Xavier’s work has been Stitching old things together.
Shamaal Bloodman
Denim is the core fabric of the designer.
Shamaal Bloodman
then the next fad, Xavier joins a group of designers vying for the top prize by completing a range of tasks, from designing ensembles using frugal pieces and flowers, to creating looks of massive proportions for the Met Gala (with , the theme of Camp: Notes on Fashion, in mind). Xavier had a lot to say when asked what his personal highlights were. “Gigi and Tan were so genuine and gave great feedback – you could tell they really cared about all of us,” he laughs. “But when Donatella Versace told me she was inspired by me—I’m going to carry it with me for the rest of my career.”
Xavier on the show, whether The eye-catching mix of puffer jackets and varsity jackets in episode two was the paneled fringe and denim styles of the collaboration project in episode six (he and actor Amari Carter won the challenge). “Olivier Rousteing was a judge when we won the Collaboration Challenge, and that was another memorable moment – this particular challenge was important to me because I really see myself as a collaborator,” He said. As for his final collection? The look features plenty of textured panels, blending streetwear silhouettes with luxurious fabrics. Although the gap between him and fellow finalists Bao Tranchi and Deontré Hancock is small, Xavier should come out on top.
