Chloe Dao: From Runway Vision to Running Success

Chloe Dao, the Season Two Winner of Project Runway, is down to earth both on and off the show. Simple. Heartfelt. And open. A Vietnamese born in Pakse, Laos, Chloe moved to America when she was eight. Two years later, this youngster saw her first episode of “Style with Elsa Klensch” on CNN. Chloe knew then what she knows now fashion design is everything she is and desires.

From the side of the street, right outside of her boutique, Lot 8, (referenced to the eight girls in her family) Chloe talked about the experiences.

When did you first know you wanted to design clothes?
At 10, I wanted to design. But my parents strongly objected to this idea, suggesting a more traditional and stable career like law, business or health. After high school, I studied Marketing at The University of Houston but dropped out after a year and a half. I was bored. So at 20, against my parent's wish, I began my quest for fashion design. It was something I just had to do.

I bet your parents have a second thought now.
Yes!

Some contestants see you as a patternmaker instead of a designer because you received a Pattern Making degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). How did that make you feel?
The Pattern Making degree provided a solid foundation for my success. While I was at FIT, I was blessed with a great opportunity working with Madame Rossuel, a costume couture shop on the Upper East Side (in New York City). This helps me with couture details and techniques, the art of window dressing, etc. The truth is you need more than artistic vision to make beautiful dresses. You need foundation. Marla, for example, had great vision, but was lacking the technical aspect. I think this is why I won.

In the inspiration challenge, you did some work with architecture. Can you get the same kind of inspiration in Houston as you can in New York City?
I am inspired by everything, especially by architecture. The buildings in New York are beautiful, and so are Houston and Dallas. Architecture is a constant, functional means of expression I draw inspiration from. Initially, I thought about using people for the inspiration challenge but changed my mind because of time constraints.

It was impossible to flag people down on the street and use them as inspiration in this setting. So my designs rely on nature, attitude and architecture. I am very interested in lines and the movement of lines. I am always inspired by the work of McQueen, Rodrigez, Fiaga and especially Versace. It's kind of funny, but Versace has always been one my favorites because of the structure in the gowns, the clean lines and the jackets. The designs can be wildly creative yet woman-friendly. I like that balance.

What did you find to be the most difficult challenge?
Definitely the “clothes off your back” challenge. No doubt. It was unexpected but most rewarding. I was wearing only denim. I had only 3-4 inches of fabric left at the end. It really was as hard as it looked on TV. The minute count downs were tough. Add to that stress, 14 designers sharing five sewing machines - one being broken - and two irons. It's just plain imperative you keep your cool and focus on your goals. I was happy with my product.

We were all surprised when you chose Diana for the final challenge. Why did you do so?
I chose Diana for the final challenge because she was the best of the group. I had worked with her before, and I had seen her do amazing stuff in like two minutes. She has the skills. She can do it. She just has it in her.

Who do you think should have stuck around longer?
I was surprised to see Andre went. His cool project was so amazing, so whimsical.

How do you feel about the last winner rejecting all the money?
Perhaps it was for tax reasons. I really understand it. With the contract, which I haven't had a chance to study, it actually ends up being even less money.

What do you plan on doing with all the money?
My store, Lot 8, is my real dream, even over starting my own line. I am very interested in representing up-and-coming designers, especially women. I know how hard it can be to live your dream, and how hard it can be to get a start in the business. My passion is to help these talents with an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Is your own stuff on sale there?
All my stuff is sold out. I spend many hours in my garage cutting and stitching. It becomes ridiculous. It seems like that is all I do aside from spending time with my boyfriend. My mother and aunt sew for me. Of course, eventually I want to hire others to help. I might put the prize money into doing just that. We can't do it all alone anymore!

Do you plan to move to New York City any time soon?
I think I'm going to stay in Texas. My boyfriend is here, Lot 8 is here. My family is here. I love New York. I will visit and always be inspired by it. But home is where the heart is.

Interviewed and written by JOSETTE SCHOEL