We spotted Christine Viernes, Aka: Teen, at the next movement event at the Nextdoor club in her hometown, Honolulu, Hawaii. She was showcasing her latest fashion line, and I thought that her designs were very inspiring.

Q&A with Christine Viernes

Brown Nation: Where are your origins in the Philippines?
Teen: Mayantoc, Tarlac…don’t know what purok that is?

Brown Nation: What did your parents want you to be when you grow up?
Teen: A Nurse…typical right…or at least in the medical field.

Brown Nation: How long have you been designing?
Teen: 3 years

Brown Nation: How did you start in the fashion industry?
Teen: I have always been creative and got into fashion when I was studying at Heald College. Then my fashion sense began to kick in. When I could not find a job in the medical field, I worked for the state at Farington High School and realized that this wasn’t working for me and quit. Then I ended up at Honolulu Community College studying fashion design and loved it.

Brown Nation: How do you start your creative process?
Teen: I don’t have a start process…when I see something inspiring, I ride with it. Creativity just comes. I do draw some inspiration through magazines, books, and people watching.

Brown Nation: Who are your inspirations?
Teen: Betsey Johnson…because of her qirky & unique style, topher, my boyfriend, because he’s a smart cookie & I learn a lot from him. Also, anyone with a good fashion sense.

Brown Nation: What does it mean to be a Filipino?
Teen: Staying true to your roots. Know your family’s history and where your came from. I’m proud to be a filipna. I love the food, some of the music, and the television shows. (I know some won’t admit it, but I will.)

Brown Nation: What is your favorite Filipino foods?
Teen: Speaking of food…I don’t have a favorite…I love em all except for the chocolate meat (sorry for all you lovers) and anything with goat.

Brown Nation: Any advice to all the upcoming fashion designers?
Teen: I know it’s hard coming from a culture that’s very strict on having careers that make buko bucks, but if fashion is what you wanna do, then do it. No matter what, be strong & keep pushing yourself. If you’re talented, don’t waste it. My parents were not supportive at first, that’s why I studied medical just to please them. Then I took matters in my own hands and went into fashion. They finally gave me the support I needed when I showed how talented I was. And now, that’s what I do.

Brown Nation: What are your hobbies?
Teen: Playing billiards (oh yeah), volleyball, disco dancing, Nintendo Wii, and sewing.

Brown Nation: What is the Future of Teen Viernes?
Teen: Definitely look out for my clothing line. It’ll be out there. In 5 years, I see myself possibly working in the showroom at Betsey Johnson, working on my line, and traveling the world.