Today we’d like to introduce you to Rakee Chen
Rakee, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2021, I moved to Atlanta to study fashion design, where I received specialized training that significantly deepened my expertise. During this time, I began merging my background in toy design with fashion, which has become a defining feature of SCHNABBIT. The brand’s products now often showcase playful elements, like the mini green bunny and pink monster balls—plush toys that embody SCHNABBIT’s quirky, whimsical essence. Whether I’m creating clothes or toys, the story universe I’ve built remains at the core of everything I do. Looking ahead, I’m eager to expand the SCHNABBIT world into new realms, such as coffee shops or furniture stores, where the brand’s distinctive attitude can flourish and reach even greater heights.
My background in industrial design has heightened my sensitivity to shapes and structures. I’m particularly drawn to smooth, metallic materials and mechanized forms, which frequently appear in my virtual designs. The process of rendering clothing shares many similarities with product rendering, so I utilize software like CLO, which integrates seamlessly with other 3D programs. My work as a costume designer on sci-fi movies has also profoundly influenced my approach. The close connection between film and fashion is a constant source of inspiration for me. For instance, my virtual series “THE WRAPPED” was inspired by Dune. These experiences enable me to seamlessly integrate futuristic elements into my fashion designs.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. I spent a lot of time exploring my interests, and transitioning from industrial design to fashion design required me to focus on learning the basics like pattern making and sewing, which took extra effort. However, this didn’t hold me back in the industry. I was able to integrate my 3D and software skills into fashion design, and through virtual fashion, I’ve been able to experiment with different projects and push creative boundaries.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m thrilled to have my recent digital fashion work acknowledged by CLO，Digital Fashion Week NYC platforms. Digital fashion gives me a whole new way to present clothing, allowing for richer, more creative storytelling. I use it not just for marketing but to really bring SCHNABBIT’s brand identity to life. It’s like the perfect blend of storytelling and merchandise—digital fashion lets me dive deep into the narrative, while wearable art gives people something tangible to hold onto, something they can really connect with.
I think what sets me apart is my unique background in both industrial design and fashion design. This allows me to approach fashion with a strong understanding of 3D modeling, technology integration, and structural design. The designs featured in VOGUE and PAPER are from my latest collection, “The Era.” This collection uniquely combines AI painting with music, where I used software to create prints that are based on rhythms. My background in industrial design is closely intertwined with my journey into digital fashion. Through my studies in 3D modeling and interaction design, I naturally began exploring how various technological disciplines can be integrated into fashion. What drives my work is the pursuit of innovation through the convergence of these fields. For me, it’s about pushing the boundaries of what fashion can be and discovering new ways to use technology to express creativity.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love collaborating with different artists. For example, I worked with a painter to create street graffiti, which became a unique print for our new fashion collection. I’ve also experimented with working alongside musicians, designing a program that alters patterns based on musical rhythms, essentially visualizing music.
I’m very grateful to friends who have supported and recommended my work, helping me connect with professionals from various industries like film, music, and advertising. These collaborations inspire me, and I’m always open to new creative partnerships.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rakeechen.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kee.design/
- Other: https://www.schnabbit.com/
