Spotlight on SHEIN X: GAWX and Amiko Simonetti Discuss Their Collabs and Breaking Into Fashion
Ever wonder what it's like to be a designer for a global company?
With SHEIN X, now you don't have to. The program works alongside independent creators, artists and designers to bring their style straight to shoppers. Now that career in fashion is one step closer. I connected with four designers from across the globe to learn what it's like to be a part of the SHEIN X program. They broke down the collab with SHEIN and gave us a snapshot into their brand and style.
How SHEIN X Came To Be
We've all surfed through the various collections on SHEIN, looking for the perfect outfit for a night out, prom, school, or simply lounge and activewear. In just a few years since its inception, the program has grown to produce more than 41,000 pieces in partnership with nearly 4,600 designers and artists from 20 countries, bringing a bit of every corner of the world to the designs you shop across all categories. "Many of our designers draw inspiration from their communities and backgrounds, and their unique perspectives are what make them stand out," said Anqi Xu, Head of SHEIN X, US.
"SHEIN X started in 2021 with the mission of accessibility, and this continues to stay true to the program's core as we continue to evolve," said Xu. "Fashion is accessible as a concept, but the nitty-gritty details of building a brand can be daunting. In fact, the business side of fashion is often one of the hardest challenges that creatives face––things like how to manage supply chain operations and inventories, handle customer service and returns, and all aspects of the business in between. With SHEIN X, creatives can focus on what they enjoy and do best, while also developing new skills and gaining experience."
This is just the start. In the last year, Xu tells Sweety High about SHEIN working with with MONSE co-creative directors Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, Queen of Raw to reduce waste and environmental impact, pop superstar Anitta and more. So, who knows what we might see from the company in 2025.
Also read about: 5 Ways to Incorporate the Next Pantone Shade of the Year Into Your 2025
Meet the Masterminds
Sweety High got the scoop from four designers on what it's like to be a part of the SHEIN X family. In part one of this spotlight series, check out our Q&A with GAWX and Amiko Simonetti.
Sweety High: What inspired you to get into fashion design?
GAWX: I've always loved art and fashion. Ever since I was a small kid, I used to paint on my T-shirts to create my own custom outfits, and never stopped doing it—not even 15 years later. I really enjoy expressing myself through what I wear and what I paint, so combining both worlds felt very natural.
In 2023, I got to design my first ever clothing collection with SHEIN. I had such an incredible time and learned so much during the process. That experience deepened my love for the medium, so in 2024, I went all in and created a second collection. I hope to continue exploring and expressing myself through this art form.
SH: How would you describe your collection?
GAWX: I would say it's playful while keeping things minimal and somewhat "elegant." It's very design-driven and all pieces work well when combined with each other. It has strong hints of streetwear and, in my opinion, it's very stylish!
SH: What's one thing you've learned along the way in your career you wish you knew sooner?
GAWX: I wish I had known how important it is to make mistakes. As a beginner, it's often difficult to embrace mistakes and to be overly meticulous with your work. The more mistakes you make, the more you learn, and the better you become. Sometimes, those mistakes can also turn into "happy accidents," making your work more unique.
SH: Any advice for an aspiring designer?
GAWX: Don't wait. Just start. If you have a dream project you've always wanted to create, do it. Don't wait for the perfect time to come because there's probably no thing such as "the perfect time." Also, don't be afraid to experiment and step out of your comfort zone. Trying new things is one of the best ways to grow as an artist.
SH: You have pet, kids and accessories in your collection. How different is it to design for these spaces, and what inspired you to expand into them?
GAWX: When creating designs for all sorts of garments, you have to keep different things in mind, like proportions, styles and most importantly, making the designs versatile. I want everyone to be able to enjoy my art, even pets haha, so making them accessible to everyone was very important to me.
Also read about: 6 Stylish Corsets to Spice Up Your Closet
Amiko Simonetti's story is a bit different, but her path also leads to a collaboration with SHEIN X. Here's more on the collection.
Sweety High: What inspired you to get into fashion design?
Amiko Simonetti: I always loved clothes, even as a child. I discovered I also liked to sketch. It had a calming effect on my mind. So I put the two together and became a fashion designer.
SH: How did you find out about SHEIN X and how has the journey been so far?
AS: I learned about the program when I got a message from one of the program coordinators on Instagram. The journey has been really rewarding. I've received many great opportunities to develop as a designer and the program has given me a creative outlet to express my ideas.
SH: What's your favorite piece that you've designed? If you can provide a link that would be great.
AS: This [drape satin slip] dress is one of my favorite designs. It's a relatively simple design, but something about it just works. The fabric, cut, and color are magic together.
(via SHEIN)
SH: Any advice for an aspiring designer?
AS: Keep practicing and have fun! Follow your enthusiasm as much as possible. Consistent practice over the long term really pays off.
SH: What's the biggest challenge in designing on an international stage?
AS: The biggest challenge is always learning to empathize with the customer. I might think an idea is great, but sometimes it doesn't resonate. There is so much value in testing ideas in the real world, and getting feedback. I love reading customer reviews.
SH: How did your studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology play a role in getting you to where you are now?
AS: FIT had a great but challenging curriculum for fashion design. I learned the value of a good work ethic. But I also learned to prioritize self-care. Learning that balance shaped the quality of my career.
For more on our favorite designers, click HERE to learn more about Kerisma Knits co-founder Lihui Ke sharing the inspiration behind the beloved knitwear brand.