Since 2009 Volcom have given young up- and coming designers a chance to contribute to the popular Volcom look, by designing their very own SEED capsule collection. We’ve caught up with the winner of this year’s comp, Anja Khusal who designed the fabulous ‘Free Me Butterfly’ windbreaker that we’re giving away

Interview by Sophie Eggs

You went from being a fashion student to selling your Volcom capsule collection in lots of shops in no time. How does that feel?
GREAT! I never thought that I would be the chosen one and to experience this at my age and level. I am very grateful to Volcom and my university for trusting me with this project.

The collection takes inspiration from origami, have you always been a fan?
I have always had an interest in traditional arts. Origami seems to be making a great come back with many catwalk collections too.

Will you continue to work for a lifestyle brand like Volcom or would you prefer your own little label?
I felt very much in my zone at Volcom and there was a good balance of creativity and flexibility. It is my dream to start up a small label but I#d be happy with a company that allows the same creative freedom as Volcom too.

Why did you use super luxurious fabrics including silk yarns, bamboo cotton and woven jacquard?
I wanted to give the collection a different edge. But my fabrics were all sourced from the Volcom fabric archive.

What is your favorite piece from the collection?
The “Free me butterfly” windbreaker. It was the most challenging one to design because it has a lot of components, but turned out really well.

How did you put your own stamp on the collection without losing the Volcom identity?
The Volcom identity is very distinct but can be adapted to my individual style. The SEED line is very “me” because I always asked myself “Would I wear it?”

The Volcom motto is “Youth against establishment”, do you live by that?
I have the tendency to take very big decisions impulsively and just run with it. I can’t get away with some of the stuff I did when I was 15, but I love the rock and roll spirit.

There is a big surf scene in Biarritz, did you get the chance to do any surfing?
I tried to surf once and I was not wearing the right attire so that ended up being really embarrassing! But I love the surfers’ attitude there, they are so much in touch with nature.