I have always loved to draw, and I admire talented illustrators across various industries. Recently I heard about Houston-based fashion illustrator Rongrong DeVoe via Popshop and Instagram. Using images, artistic implements and drawing paper, DeVoe creates remarkable illustrated likenesses of models, celebrities and bloggers. I had the opportunity to not only sit down with DeVoe to discuss her blossoming career, but also watch her draw a model donning designs from the latest Elie Saab collection.
HP: Tell me a little about your background in the fashion industry?
Rongrong: I moved to New York City to pursue my Master’s degree of Illustration at Fashion Institute of Technology six years ago. While I was in school, I worked as a part-time design assistant at a women’s apparel company for a year, while freelancing as a fashion illustrator at the same time. After I graduated, I worked as a full time CAD designer for a private label company for three years. I mainly use Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to design intimate apparel and sleepwear.
HP: What got you started in illustration?
Rongrong: I have loved drawing ever since I was a child. I fell in love with fashion when my Mom bought me my first fashion magazine- ELLE China when I was 15. I spent so much time drawing beautiful models and clothing during my teens. After college I [learned about] a career field called fashion illustration, so I decided to apply to FIT to study fashion illustration.
HP: Why “fashion”?
Rongrong: I have always loved drawing beautiful things. Models, gowns and street style are my major inspirations. Can you imagine how boring the world will be without fashion?
HP Do you have any mentors/favorite illustrators or designers you look up to for inspiration?
Rongrong: Yes. A lot of people inspire me such as David Downton, William Bil Donovan and Jennifer Lilya.
HP: What is your working environment like?
Rongrong: I work at home most of the time, or sometimes in coffee shops. There is one spare room in my apartment that I use as my studio.
HP: What mediums do you use?
Rongrong: I use pencil, watercolor and Japanese brush, but I am always looking for new mediums to experiment with.
HP: Three words that describe your work?
Rongrong: Playful, detailed and colorful.
HP: Do you have any advice for people wanting to pursue a career in fashion illustrating?
Rongrong: Ask yourself how much you love fashion illustration. If you decide to pursue this career, you need a lot of practice. You also need to have social media accounts to share your work and connect with your audience, which is essential!
HP: Where can we see your work and connect with you?
Rongrong: I have a website and I am also on Instagram and Etsy.
Rongrong DeVoe is an incredibly talented illustrator. She is a huge asset to Houston’s fashion industry. As a proud Houstonian, I am so happy she chose this city to call home. I’m excited to see what she does next!
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