Out Fashion Vanguard Progress Report #2: Kim Mesches

Out is searching for the next great talent on the cutting edge of fashion. Earlier this year, we asked our readers, to submit their designs and sketches using #OUTFashionVanguard. Now, we have three eager finalists preparing their designs to show the world why they deserve the title of OUT Fashion Vanguard at the very first FVA event on March 30.

Here's a phase two update from finalist Kim Mesches, a Brooklyn-based designer whose passion grew out of his teenage hobby of painting old pairs of sneakers with unique graphics and graffiti.

With the event just a week away, tell us how you are feeling?

I can't believe it's only a week away, time flies! I'm feeling great, my piece is almost 100% finished. There are some tweaks here and there, but overall I am very excited to show it.

How do you remain calm and focused while working under pressure?

I love working under pressure especially on projects like this. Usually I will work and work and forget to stop, but I've been getting better at taking breaks.

When I want to stay focused I usually listen to a playlist of upbeat music, an album I love, or a movie I've seen already to have it on in the background. I try not to vent much, but if I do I vent to my poor boyfriend, family and friends.

What has been the most challenging part in bringing your design to life?

The hardest part about bringing this design to life was all the details that went into executing it. This is my most ambitious piece in terms of the different steps it took to make. When you see it you'll understand. I don't buy prints; I make them, so that was the first step. I also kept it cohesive with my current collection and pushed the envelope.

How has your vision for this piece changed or developed over time?

When I design, I always want the piece to feel both organic and sculptural. Originally, my sketch was very geometric, but when I started making it and pulling inspiration from different imagery, I wanted it to be more like organized chaos. This piece has developed into a really intense garment that is very reflective of me as a designer.

How is your piece different or similar to what you have created before?

First of all, I've never attempted this type of fabric manipulation so that was a fun adventure, but now that I know I can do it I'll definitely do it again. It is similar to my work because it is risque- not in an overt way and the fabrication is a signature of mine.

I love playing with texture, depth and lines and this piece brings all of those elements together. As a designer, I want the pieces to be wearable art, and for the wearer to be confident in it. This piece definitely requires the wearer to be bold and daring.

Do you have any expectations for the actual event?

I honestly have no expectations of the event itself, I am excited to meet the other finalists. It has been such an honor, no matter the outcome, to be included in this amazing event for such an amazing cause!

Name a celebrity or fashion icon you hope to meet while in Hollywood, attending the OUT Fashion Vanguard Awards.

Hmm...I would love to meet any celebrities or fashion icons that have been activists or advocates for the LGBTQ movement. Currently, anyone has decided to protest against the "anti-gay" bill in Georgia, such as: Zoe Kravitz, Matt Bomer, Anne Hathaway and Julianne Moore; people who are using their fame for good.

Check in on Out's other two Fashion Vanguard Finalists, Andrew Morrison and Marcel Coleman Jr., and how they're progressing in the competition. More updates to come this week!