Showcase Spotlight: Izzy Cox

Every year, the apparel design and merchandising program hosts a fashion showcase, where students enrolled in the spring Apparel Design Studio IV class create clothing collections to be featured in the fashion showcase. Each collection is a unique reflection of the designer and a testament to everything they have learned in the ADM program.

Izzy Cox.

Izzy Cox, a senior ADM student from Apex, NC, is bringing her collection, “Fiercely Feminine,” to this year's fashion showcase. 

Her fashion journey began in high school, where she first experimented in the world of design. Cox's passion for creativity and identity fuels her love for fashion.

 “I’ve always been very artistic and creative, and I like the idea of combining that into clothes because it manifests into self-expression,” Cox said.

Cox’s collection, “Fiercely Feminine” draws inspiration from strong, influential women, namely her mother.

“My mom was a massive inspiration for this collection because she is one of the most powerful women I know,” she said.

The collection focuses on evening wear with a mature and upscale aesthetic, with Cox infusing her designs with bright colors, unique fabrics, and her own personal style. Through her collection, Cox aims to inspire other women, using fashion as a medium to embody fierce, feminine power and strength. 

“My message is expressing confidence through clothes,” she said. “I want people to look at my designs and feel confident about themselves and what they wear.” 

Her collection is not simply clothes, but it is a celebration of the beauty of being fiercely feminine.

Cox began by drawing different concepts and taking inspiration from the world around her. She says, “Inspiration came randomly … it just comes naturally. I think that’s why everyone is in it–fashion–because it comes naturally.” 

Cox had an idea for what she wanted for each garment in her three-piece collection, but it changed almost entirely when she discovered a fabric that captured her — dupioni faux silk.

Izzy's illustrations.

“One of the things that makes my collection unique are the fabrics I'm using,” Cox said. “You haven’t seen this being done before.” 

The discovery not only excited her and paved a new way for her collection, but it also posed a few challenges. Cox faced the challenges of maintaining consistency and staying dedicated to her vision. Through designing her collection, Cox learned the value of patience, attention to detail, and flexibility. She achieved a stunning collection and personal growth in mastering her craft.

After graduation, Izzy has plans to move to New York City to go into the business side of fashion, hoping to eventually become a creative director.