Nichel
Although recently eliminated from NBC’s “Fashion Star,” New York designer and MSU alumna Tori Nichel has no intention of slowing down or leaving the fashion world.
The Michigan native has held a passion for fashion since childhood, working with former Dior model Christiane McCormick at the age of 16. She graduated from MSU in 1998, and has worked for high-profile designers such as Tibi and Kenneth Cole.
Nichel currently is working on the relaunch of her self-titled clothing line. The State News got the chance to speak with her Thursday about her new line and her time on the show.
The State News: What have you been working on since being on “Fashion Star”?
Tori Nichel: Right now, I just relaunched my dress collection. I had to get the momentum to get into the stores again, and people are super excited … I’ve also been working on partnership opportunities with manufacturers and building my infrastructure … I really wanna make sure I’m building slowly. It’s not gonna happen overnight.
TSN: What was the best advice you received on the show?
TN: The most important advice I got on the show was just to make sure I’m designing commercial pieces. When I was eliminated, they told me to always stay true to myself and my brand.
TSN: What advice do you have for aspiring designers?
TN: Everyone wants to get out where they’re going and start this line, and I say, ‘I don’t know how you’re doing it.’ There’s more to designing than just sketching and draping and pattern making, you’ve gotta learn the business side too. … Apprenticing for someone is so important. Also, stay true to your vision and brand. Not everyone is gonna love your aesthetic.
TSN: What was the hardest lesson you had to learn on the show?
TN: I wish I was just tougher from the get-go with my manufacturing team. It was so slow-going with everything.
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