Spotlight on SHEIN X: Christian Allana and Maalavidaa Dish on Their Collabs and Design Process
Thinking about a career in fashion and design? You've come to the right place. Welcome back to the Spotlight on SHEIN X Series, where Sweety High got the scoop on the fashion company's collaboration program with artists and designers from around the world.
The program started in 2021, and has produced 41,000 pieces in partnership with nearly 4,600 designers and artists from 20 countries. In part one of the series, Sweety High gave you a Q&A with GAWX and Amiko Simonetti. This time, we're back with more from Christian Allana and Maalavidaa. Looking to get your start in the fashion and design industry? These two might just inspire you to kickstart your path with their own stories, advice and experiences.
Sweety High: What inspired you to get into fashion design?
Christian Allana: With a background in art and painting, my love for fashion was inspired by my childhood memories of shopping with my mom and recreating new garments from grandmother's old clothing. I developed a passion for turning something old into something "new."
SH: How did you find out about SHEIN X and how has the journey been so far?
CA: I found out through the SHEIN X program through social media. I was following a fellow designer who posted her latest collection online. I was intrigued and wanted to find out more! My journey in the incubator program has been a rewarding and fun experience all around.
SH: How would you describe your collection?
CA: My newest collection using recycled fabrics [through the SHEIN X Rescued Collection] is a unique mix of unexpected details and innovative seaming. I love working with new and different textures and playing with how the fabric accentuates the female form. The statement dresses in the latest collection are sexy and form-fitting with intricate details.
SH: What's your favorite piece that you've designed?
CA: My favorite piece I have designed is the Pink Plisse Dress. I love bold colors and the hint of the slit to show off some skin! The color looks good on all skin tones and the dress itself is very flattering.
(via SHEIN)
SH: What can we expect from your collection in the future? Anything you can tease?
CA: You can expect more innovation from me in the near future! As a designer, I am always growing in my craft and seeking out new ideas and concepts to explore. I am interested in the idea of merging technology and fashion. For my next collection, I am working on new concepts that revolve around technology and what that looks like for my brand and aesthetic.
SH: Any advice for an aspiring designer?
CA: This might sound cliche, but my advice is to be yourself! As you embark on your journey, remember to stay true to yourself and your artistic vision. Authenticity is the foundation of a successful brand.
SH: If you could design a look for any celebrity, who would it be and why?
CA: Kim Kardashian! I love her style personally but I also appreciate that she ventures out and tries new fashion looks that are unique. Kim often wears dresses that accentuate her curves. I feel that she would be the perfect muse for my brand. I love that she has such a glamorous style with a touch of innovation as well.
Also read about: Upcycling Fashion Master Nigel Xavier Dishes on His Design Process and the Power of Meta AI
You might know the name Alycia Rainaud, but many know her by Maalavidaa. Here's more on her creative journey.
SH: What inspired you to get into fashion design?
Maalavidaa: My journey into fashion design was really a natural extension of my art. I've always been fascinated by the interplay between digital art and tangible processes—the way something born in a digital space can take on a new life in the physical world. For a long time, I experimented with this idea on a small scale, creating designs for T-shirts or jackets just for fun, for myself or small projects. It was a way to bring my art into a more tangible form, something people could wear and experience in a different way.
But despite my passion for it, I never really allowed myself to think about creating an entire collection. As an independent artist, it's challenging to find the right resources, connections, investment and, most importantly, the time to build something from the ground up.
So, when the opportunity arose to collaborate on a larger scale, it felt like the perfect moment to bridge that gap between my digital art and fashion. Fashion design has become another canvas for me, one that allows my art to be experienced in a dynamic, wearable form. More than anything, it is just an incredible feeling to be able to see people from all around the world wear your art because it resonates with them and gives them a new form of confidence and self-love.
SH: How did you find out about SHEIN X and how has the journey been so far?
Maalavidaa: I first found out about the SHEIN X program when their team approached me in 2023. To be honest, I wasn't familiar with the program at the time, and I was genuinely surprised to learn about their commitment to bringing artists and creatives to the forefront of fashion collections. The idea of collaborating with such a major brand was both exciting and intimidating for me.
As someone who often struggles with impostor syndrome, like a lot of creators, I was initially taken aback by the proposition. I still experience self-doubt about my art, so being offered the opportunity to create an entire fashion collection felt surreal. I couldn't help but wonder, "Why me?" and "Am I really ready for this?"
But the SHEIN X team was incredibly reassuring from the very beginning. They understood my concerns and were so supportive throughout the entire process. They really took the time to understand my vision, especially my focus on mental health, and helped me bring it to life in a way that felt authentic and true to who I am as an artist. Their support allowed me to push through the self-doubt and embrace this opportunity fully.
The journey so far has been incredibly educational and fulfilling. I've learned so much about fashion design, from the technical aspects to the creative decisions that go into making a collection cohesive and impactful. Working with the SHEIN X team has been an eye-opening experience, and I'm so grateful for the chance to expand my artistic expression into the world of fashion. It's been a journey of growth, both personally and creatively, and I'm really proud of what we've created together.
SH: How would you describe your collection?
Maalavidaa: I would describe the collection as eclectic, a true reflection of the duality within my artistic vision. It showcases both bold, colorful statement pieces and monochromatic, cutting-edge outfits that offer a more subtle yet powerful expression. I wanted to create a collection that resonates with different moods and moments, so each item can be styled up or down depending on how you're feeling that day.
One of the things I love most about this collection is how comfortable each piece is. Fashion should feel good to wear, and I made sure that every item could easily be paired with your wardrobe staples. Whether you're throwing on a statement jacket over a simple outfit or mixing and matching pieces from the collection, there's a versatility that allows you to make it your own.
The collection also includes specific details that are very personal to me, serving as nods towards self-acceptance and vulnerability. You'll find subtle catchphrases like "you're enough" or "it's all part of the process" integrated into some of the designs. These reminders are meant to be little affirmations for anyone wearing the pieces, reinforcing the idea that embracing your true self and your journey, with all its ups and downs, is something to be celebrated.
SH: What's your favorite piece that you've designed?
Maalavidaa: I love all the pieces in the collection equally, but if I had to pick one that holds a special place in my heart, it would be the butterfly top. This piece is particularly meaningful to me because it perfectly embodies the initial design I created, which was inspired by a butterfly—a symbol of transformation and hope.
(via SHEIN)
What makes this piece even more special is how the butterfly design actually came to life in a figurative way with the way the top is cut. The flowing, layered fabric mimics the delicate wings of a butterfly, and it's just incredible to see that concept translate so beautifully into a tangible piece of clothing.
(via SHEIN)
It's designed to shine a light on the person wearing it, accentuating their beauty and presence. There's something so bright and hopeful about this piece, and I think it really captures the essence of transformation and self-acceptance that I wanted to infuse into the entire collection. It's more than just a top. It's a statement, and I'm so happy with how it turned out.
SH: Your line is full of color and unique design. What do you feel most influenced your style?
Maalavidaa: I am obviously deeply influenced by my fascination with emotions and the human psyche. I see color as a powerful tool for expressing feelings that words often can't capture. Each shade and hue I use is intentional, chosen to evoke a specific emotional response or to reflect a particular state of mind.
Color therapy and Jungian therapy have been profound influences on my style as well. Color therapy, in particular, inspires me to use hues not just for their aesthetic appeal but for their emotional and psychological impact. Jungian therapy has also shaped my approach to design. The idea of exploring the unconscious mind, of delving into the depths of our inner selves, resonates deeply with me. Together, these therapeutic approaches fuel my passion for creating art that is not only visually unique but also deeply meaningful. They remind me that art has the power to heal, to transform, and to connect us with our innermost selves.
SH: How has your background in graphic design helped you along the way?
Maalavidaa: My background in graphic design, particularly my specialization in print design, has been incredibly helpful in creating designs not only for this collection and for everything I want to materialize. As a former print-oriented designer, I was taught how to translate digital concepts into physical forms, ensure pristine file execution and quality which has been essential in fashion design. The skills I developed in layout, typography, and color theory have all played a significant role in how I approach creating garments that are not only visually striking but also well-crafted and cohesive. I strive to create pieces that not only look good but also resonate on a deeper, psychological level, offering a form of visual and emotional storytelling.
Want to learn more about applying to the SHEIN X program? Visit the program site for more.
Did you miss part one of the spotlight series? Click HERE for the Spotlight on SHEIN X Series: Breaking Into Fashion Part 1 .