A two-time FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar (2024 and 2025), Zachary Crawford is a master's student at Wayne State University pursuing a degree in Industrial and Product Design, while interning in menswear merchandising at Nordstrom. For him, fashion is a powerful language of self-expression as much as an aesthetic. Below, he shares the inspiration behind his work, the impact of mentorship on his journey, and his vision for a more inclusive, expressive fashion future.
FSF: What was your earliest fashion inspiration?
ZC: My earliest fashion influences came around age five from Scooby-Doo and All That. I was drawn to the characters' distinctive styles. Watching The Wiz and The Wizard of Oz with my parents at seven deepened my appreciation for the emotional power of costuming. For years, I saw myself as a character in a movie or play.
From left to right, Zachary’s core aesthetic—classy and adventurous—is equal parts refined and fearless, a reflection of his design philosophy today. Even as a kindergartener dressed as a roaring lion for Halloween, Zachary’s creativity and flair for storytelling were already taking shape. Festive Christmas pajamas have long been a favorite family tradition. That sense of comfort and celebration continues to inspire the warmth and intentionality behind Zachary’s work today. Photos courtesy of Zachary Crawford
FSF: What inspires you now?
ZC: Music often fuels the emotion and storytelling behind my designs. Rather than a single artist or song, I draw inspiration from a mix of genres—R&B, soul, pop, alternative, blues, DJ mixes, hip-hop, and even gospel—allowing music, like fashion, to reflect different moods and constantly evolve with my creativity.
The internet’s hyper-exposure has also been a big influence, providing instant access to global style, subcultures, and emerging trends, allowing me to merge diverse inspirations into something fresh and authentic.
FSF: If you could collaborate with any three designers or fashion leaders, living or passed, who would they be and why?
ZC: John Galliano—definitely my all-time favorite creative director. I loved his designs when he was at Dior. Just incredible work. Vivienne Westwood—her designs are so striking. That mix of subculture and rebellion with innovation is just powerful. And Law Roach—fashion stylist and image innovator. Out of this world.
FSF: How would you describe your personal style? ZC: Refined, edgy, and confident.
In his personal art studio, Zachary stores one of his original designs—a space where creative process meets purposeful curation, and every detail is considered with care and intention. Photo courtesy of Zachary Crawford
FSF: What are three pieces of clothing or accessories you can’t live without?
ZC: Jewelry (specifically diamonds), leather pants, and bags.
FSF: What do you want your impact on the fashion industry to be?
ZC: I want my impact on the fashion industry to be a refreshing celebration of individualism and confidence, where style empowers self-expression without boundaries.
FSF: What are the biggest issues you’d like the fashion industry to tackle or solve?
ZC: The fashion industry must move beyond performative diversity and truly integrate inclusion at every level, from design teams to executive leadership, ensuring authentic representation of all races, sizes, genders, and backgrounds.
FSF: In three words (or less), the future of fashion is…
ZC: To look within.
FSF: What's the most valuable skill FSF has taught you?
ZC: Being persistent and dedicated is key to breaking barriers in the fashion industry. Success comes from continuously pushing creative boundaries, seizing opportunities, and staying resilient in the face of challenges.
FSF: What role do you see mentorship playing in the fashion industry's future?
ZC: Mentorship is crucial for fostering diverse talent by providing guidance, access, and opportunities that break industry barriers. Personally, it has been pivotal in navigating my career, gaining insights, and building confidence in creative and leadership roles. My FSF mentor, Alexandra Hoffman, Principal of Registry Omni & Customer Strategy at Macy’s, facilitated valuable connections with design professionals, allowing me to learn from multiple experiences and share my own needs.
She not only related to my challenges but actively helped, offering personal insights. The company she worked for felt like an ideal career fit, but accessing design directors beyond recruiters can be difficult. This experience reinforced how mentorship opens doors and helps aspiring professionals thrive in the corporate world.
FSF: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
ZC: It was a conversation years ago with my grandmother, Keep it moving… I took it as no matter what obstacles arise, never stop, never dwell too long, and always push forward with resilience and purpose.
📲 Follow Zachary’s journey: @zacharylpc | LinkedIn | Website
Photo courtesy of Zachary Crawford
