Adam Dalton Blake had the invaluable opportunity to feature his design on LIFEWTR Series 3 bottles and showcase his first collection during New York Fashion Week in September— as part of the premium hydration brand’s partnership with the CFDA based on a shared mission in advancing creativity and supporting emerging creators on a global stage. Nearly a year later, we caught up with Blake at NYFW: Men’s and the Fashion Future Graduate Showcase as he met with top fashion talents and graduates from fashion schools and shared his creative wisdom. Here, our interview.

How did you enjoy NYFW: Men’s?

Loved it! NYFW has such a different vibe because a lot of younger and smaller brands have their moment to show their creativity and talent.

What were some of the most inspired moments you witnessed?

Seeing Willy Chavarria’s political fire coming out really struck a chord with me. With his graphic tees and upside-down flag sweaters, Chavarria’s way of presenting his views was very sophisticated and powerful. In these politically charged times, it is really nice to see artists and designers embracing their medium for change and activism.

What was your overall impression of FFGS?

These young designers have so much creativity which was highly exhibited in this presentation. It was great seeing every graduate with their designs and assets right next to them while hearing them talk about and pitch their designs. It provides a lot of confidence that these new graduates really know how to sell their work to the masses with as much passion as they made it with.

How would you describe the graduate talent here?

There was definitely a big group of creativity and boldness at FFGS. The designers have clearly spent a lot of time thinking about their collections and making them with passion and eccentricity. It’s very refreshing to see the young designers openly design without the notion of what will sell, or is considered “mainstream.”

Who were your favorites and why?

There were a few great graduates that really stood out to me! One of them was William Stautberg, whose knitwear and men’s styling is so well-executed and sophisticated for someone who just graduated from college. Additionally, I immediately fell in love with the denim I saw from Lou Rogers and the oversized coats of Erica Kim. Both play with silhouette in a way that is super-exciting. I want of pair of Lou Rogers’ jeans!

How was being around the creative community going to influence your own creative process?

I would love to collaborate with some of these designers to see how they work and try to put something truly unique out in the world. We need to embrace our young peers in our community rather than fight for that one job everyone wants. There is power in numbers and with two young designers working together, the world will open up.

As an emerging designers yourself, what advice do you have for these graduates?

Always be drawing, designing and feeding your own passion, while having a job that can help you achieve those goals. It is so important to find a fashion job that can give you the financial support you need so you are able to live comfortably, so you then have the brain space, time, and capital to pursue you own creative ideas. Also, surround yourself with people who are going to inspire you and support you. They will be your support through all the struggles of being a creative. And wear a lot of mesh and glitter.

You were given an immense opportunity through the LIFEWTR Series 3 program last year. What did you learn from this experience that you can pass on to future generations of designers?

I definitely learned the importance of creating a collection that is eye catching for press, but has wearable/affordable elements for business. It’s all about creating those looks that peak people’s interest and then keep them engaged with the elements that they can introduce into their own wardrobe.

How has your career and passion progressed following the LIFEWTR Series 3 program and presentation last year?

There is a lot more awareness of my brand out there which is always appreciated, especially for a kid just out of school who is interested in starting his own line eventually. It is also still definitely the largest scale collection that I’ve ever created. I am so grateful for this collaboration and I believe it will go down in my mind as one of the largest moments of my life.