With the April YCC 2012 deadline getting closer, applied arts students all over Europe are hunkering down and tackling their projects. What better time to get a little perspective and passion from a previous YCC winner?

YCC caught up with Tobias F. Müller – who took third place in Fashion in the European YCC 2011 finals – to find out more about this self-proclaimed perfectionist from the MD.H Mediadesign Hochschule in Munich.

Were there any particular influences for your YCC project?

“In general, I am inspired by a lot of things, like product design, architecture, literature, music, contemporary art and the costume history of different cultures. I think it’s important to be open-minded to new ideas and to try different approaches to get the perfect design.

I also admire the work of many conceptual fashion designers (to name a few: Hussein Chalayan, Martin Margiela and Kunihiko Morinaga of Anrealage). There is a concept behind every good design. Nothing unnecessary distracts from the overall picture.

I am also inspired by some of my colleagues at university. It has been a pleasure to have so many artistic and creative people around me, and I am really glad to have so much support from my university lecturers as well.”

What do you think is the most valuable thing about participating in YCC?

“To put it simply: the experience. Getting feedback from your fellow students and teachers is always important, but to present it to the public and succeed is a whole different experience.”

Do you have any special plans over the next year?

“The past months have been really creative and fulfilling. I was part of the founding team of the brand FUSIONEM, owned by the MD.H Mediadesign Hochschule München. A few of my pieces are for sale under the FUSIONEM name in the new concept store OUKAN71 in Berlin. I also assisted at a couple of shoots of photographer Jackie Hardt which were covered by the international media.

Right now I am working on my bachelor collection and applying for internships to get an insight into the professional world. After, I would like to expand my knowledge and get a Fashion Design Master’s degree abroad, possibly in London.”

Thanks so much, Tobias! Feel free to keep up with Tobias on his website or Facebook page. Best of luck to Tobias and, of course, all YCC 2012 competitors...