Fairy tales are a part of everyone’s childhood, but the Fashion Network Association’s leading designer Iris Chu has turned it into reality. Chu’s collection will feature a dark color palette based on Grimms’ fables, especially Little Red Riding Hood, in FNA’s upcoming winter show, Revive.

BV: What inspired you to choose this particular theme?
IC: I actually saw a painting inspired by Red Riding Hood where “Red” is holding a machine gun, and strangely it inspired me. It gave me the idea to modernize the old fairy tales, where the “damsel in distress” doesn’t need Prince Charming to save her — she can kick some ass herself!

BV: What’s your favorite creation in this collection? Please describe it.
IC: My favorite piece would have to be the navy blue and burgundy houndstooth dress with zipper detailing at the neckline and hem.

BV: What makes you feel confident about your collection?
IC: I love the inspiration and the clothes reflect the woman I would like to design for, and I’m sure women would actually wear the garments I create.

BV: Is there anything else you would like to add about the show or your experience as a designer?
IC: It’s a very special show to me. Not only is this featuring my first collection, but I am also the merchandising director of the fashion show. All the members in Fashion Network Association and I have been working so hard to make this show amazing, and I have made so many great friends from the FNA, and I’m excited for the show!

Chu plans to work for a designer or become a creative director for a fashion magazine after graduation. Catch her at the FNA fashion show Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. at Jack Adams Hall in the Cesar Chavez Student Center.