My name is Cassia Soodak. I am a fashion designer and stylist studying Fashion Design (major) and Disability Studies (minor) at Syracuse University. Many things influence my design style.

 

Being born and raised in New York has allowed me to understand the true power of eccentric, truthful and diverse fashion. In addition to studying at Syracuse University, I also studied sociology, journalism and creative writing for two years at Colorado College. My unique educational background teaches me that fashion is bigger than aesthetics but rather a tool for social change. I hope to make art that says something about societal issues and norms to ultimately make people question their preconceived beliefs. When it comes to aesthetics, I lean towards "the weird," contrasting and mismatching designs. I am incredibly inspired  by queer singers, designers and drag artists who have come before me, such as Lady Gaga and more recently, Chapell Roan. I hope to create concert looks for artists, as this is where creativity and social meaning flourish. For more info, click Design Collections Page.

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Beyond sewing, I am also an established student creative director, stylist, set designer, model, organizer and leader for two alternative magazines at Syracuse University: Jerk Magazine and Tender Magazine. While I have been at these magazines, I have lead and helped developed at least a dozen fashion based photoshoots. Visit Editorial Page for more. 

 

Alternative scenes are incredibly important to me, whether that be styling or sewing. I also hope to make these scenes more accessible. As an aspiring adaptive designer I am currently learning how to incorporate easy to use clasps and sensitive fabrics into my designs. I am a founder of  Gesture, a company that centers around fidget fashion accessories that are both discrete as well as a professional fashion statement. I am also the winner of Intelligence++ Syracuse Competition 2023. I have a unique upper-hand in this industry as my first hand experience means that I am designing to help with inaccessibility I face on the daily. Learn more by visiting my Adaptive Fashion Page.