Written by Mara Anselm, photo 1 by Mara Anselm, photo 2 contributed by Garrett Hines.

Happiness.

That was the inspiration behind Garrett Hines’ fashion collection, Between Black and White. Hines, a senior in the Fashion Design and Merchandising program, has spent months creating a collection designed to “make you happy.” Full of vibrant colors and exciting patterns, Between Black and White does exactly that. These comfortable and colorful looks fit in perfectly with today’s streetwear style.

Hines said his childhood played a major role in his passion for fashion design. Growing up around fashion and seeing the process from an early age helped Hines realize what he wanted to do.

“I used to make clothes with my granny. I always enjoyed making clothes so I wanted to do it in college,” he said.

This initial love of fashion led Hines from St. Louis to Missouri State University, where he began working on his collection. He described his process over the last five months, detailing the day-to-day work that goes into designing and producing a fashion collection.

“In a typical day, I would make a prototype and put it on my model. If it fit I would make a final garment. If it didn’t, [I would] go back to the drawing board,” Hines explained.

Lots of previous experience with the creative process has helped with the making of Between Black and White, but it hasn’t been without obstacles. Early issues in the process, including a complete redesign and difficulty finding fabric and models, have led to a collection that Hines is proud of. Hines hopes to eventually sell his clothes in stores like Zumiez and PacSun alongside other casual and trendy styles.

Although his time at MSU is coming to a close, Hines has some advice to pass on to other designers. He said that it’s important to save money whenever possible because the fashion program and industry can get expensive.

“Design stuff that you would enjoy wearing; don’t try to follow the trends,” he said.

Follow Hines’ fashion collection on Instagram at @314smiley.