Eye-catching Design

Astrology, underwater life and Japanese culture all inspired Lys Quintero to create an avant garde two-piece kimono. “I’ve been fascinated with Japanese culture since I was 12 years old,” says the fashion student. “I want to live there one day.” Intrigued by technology, Lys liked the challenge of working with unconventional fabrics to design a functional garment.

Lys used reflective material to create fish-like scales and geometric patterns. A self-taught graphic designer, she also created the star-like patterns that adorn the front of her garment. What she didn’t imagine was the amount of science that would go into her design. “I spent nearly 50 percent of my time testing how the material would work with other fabrics.” She used vinyl, saying it makes the kimono seem like it is floating.

It was no surprise that at a young age, Lys knew she would pursue an artistic career. She was born in Colombia into a family of artists – her mother an abstract, contemporary painter; her father a realistic, figurative painter. Lys dreamed of being a famous fashion designer. “It was a romantic dream at first,” she says. “After a while I realized how difficult it is to succeed, and that I could use my talent in other areas of design.” Lys plans to continue her education and aspires to become an art director.

Lys rose to the top in a contest held by 3M in partnership with a fashion school in Montreal. Students were asked to incorporate 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material into their designs. She took home the grand prize: a scholarship and a trip to 3M’s headquarters. “During this trip, I learned a lot about science,” Lys says. “The testing is the process that really fascinates me.”