Biography
Raised by environmentally conscious parents with an agricultural background, Larissa developed a strong inclination towards sustainable living. Her passion for quality textiles and craftsmanship originated from her mother's family history of textile trade in the Middle East.
She received a Bachelor of Science in International Trade and Marketing, as well as an Associate's degree in Textile/Surface Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York (2007-2012). During her educational and professional experiences in the fashion industries of New York, Paris, London, Vienna, and Montreal, she witnessed firsthand the prevalence of unsustainable design and production practices. The industry prioritized profit and turnover rather than considering user needs, labor exploitation, garment life cycle, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, Larissa’s travels to Mauritius, Morocco, India and Italy provided valuable insights into local textile and production methods.
Recently, she completed my Master of Design, specializing in sustainable Japanese textile practices. The thesis was based on a one-year field study conducted in Japan from 2019 to 2020.
Artist Statement
Larissa is a textile/fashion designer and natural dyer whose material practice has encompassed traditional and modern media such as leatherwork, 3D printing, screen printing, photography, sketching, and shibori tie-dyeing. She finds inspiration in nature's dynamic forms, textures, sustainability, and Japanese philosophies like wabi sabi, shinto, and mottainai. Larissa strives to use natural materials and minimize waste to mitigate the negative impacts of clothing consumption and production on both people and the planet.
Her master's thesis work was based on a one-year field study in Japan, exploring local bast fiber and natural dye practices. Collaborating with Quebec industry professionals and dancers, she created a biodegradable insulated jacket that embodies Japanese zero-waste design and mottainai principles. Larissa has shared her work through workshops and talks in Montreal and design schools in New York. Most recently she has collaborated with team of entrepreneurs based out of Harvard’s Innovation Lab to examine the challenges around the adoption of natural fibers and MMCF (man-made cellulosic fibers). She is open to interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities and educational initiatives to drive more sustainable approaches in the global fashion industry.
Connect with Larissa
Instagram: @japanecofashiontextiles
