VFB Interviews Akiko from Bravo's Launch My Line

You might remember Akiko from Bravo's reality show Launch My Line, but this LA designer is no newbie to fashion. She actually launched her own line back in 2004 and was immediately recognized as a designer to watch. She's even become a favorite among celebs like Nicky Hilton, Audrina Patridge and Selena Gomez. We recently had a chance to check out her Spring collection and fell in love with her amazing prints, colors, flowy tops, and feminine chic style. Check out our interview with Akiko where she talks about her experience on Launch My Line, her latest collection, plus check out some of our favorite pieces from her line:

Q: Where did you get the inspiration for your collection?

A: I design 10 collections a year, so my inspiration is always changing. At the moment I am working on Fall 2010. My inspiration for this collection is late 70’s/early 80’s silhouettes with a modern twist on them. My color palette is rich jewel tones – violet, emerald, purple, & teal.

Q: How would you describe your collection?

A: My collection is a contemporary womens’ collection for women of almost all ages, but mainly 25-45. It is feminine, bohemian, easy pieces that you can dress up or be casual.

Q: When did you realize you wanted to be a fashion designer?

A: I knew I wanted to be a designer since I was 9 years old. I would spend hours every day drawing different designs of outfits that I wanted, but my parents wouldn’t buy me!

Q: How was your experience on Launch My Line?

A: The whole Launch my Line experience was interesting to say the least. The concept was kind of odd…the “experts” do all the design work, but the “designers” take the credit and the show is all about them. It kind of felt like sweatshop labor.

Q: How was it like partnering with Kevin?

A: Kevin was hilarious, so he definitely made my time there more entertaining. He certainly did not know what was going on with anything to do with fashion and was asleep half the time, but glad I was partnered up with him because he made the experience a lot of fun.

Q: Where will your clothing be sold?

A: Akiko is sold at Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and Revolve Clothing and better boutiques nationwide.

Q: Which celebrity would you want to see wearing your clothing?

A: Gwyneth Palthrow, Penelope Cruz, & Kate Moss

Q: Who are some of your favorite designers?

A: Lanvin, Balenciaga, & Gucci

Here are some of our favorite pieces, you can also check out AkikoOnline.com to see the rest of her collection.

Rayon Drapy Dress with Open Back: This blue dress has a great fit and my favorite is the sexy open back. It's perfect for a dinner date...hmmm... maybe Valentine's Day?

Silk Tank with Knit Lining: I really like the racerback style and the fun animal print. You can dress it up or dress it down with a pair of black skinnies and cute wedge for the Spring.