I always knew I was meant to be a designer. By nine, I had already decided my closet was tragically uninspired and in desperate need of a creative director, me. Armed with scissors and zero hesitation, I began deconstructing perfectly good clothes and resurrecting them into something far more daring. My debut collection piece? A jacket crafted entirely from the back pockets of old jeans. Major credit to my sisters for unknowingly sponsoring the vision with their hand-me-downs, and to my mom’s sewing machine, which she definitely knew I was borrowing…

From then on, design wasn’t just play — it was purpose. The beginning of a point of view.

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Raised between Canada and the United States—and having  worked and studied in both—I bring a cross-cultural perspective and a modern, global sensibility to my design work. My focus is womenswear, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, textiles, and the emotional impact of color. I believe that thoughtful design can be a catalyst for meaningful change, both socially and environmentally, and I strive to reflect that purpose in every piece I create. 

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Previously, I worked as an Assistant Designer for Banana Republic, where I focus on women’s woven suiting and pants. I lead fabric sourcing and contribute to the development of cohesive seasonal collections that align with the brand’s identity while continuing to push creative boundaries. Currently, I am the Associate Designer at Old Navy, where I focus on dresses and skirts. My design process is often inspired by the textures, palettes, and forms found in both art and nature—bringing a sense of depth, emotion, and quiet strength to each piece. This role allows me to merge precision tailoring with thoughtful material choices, translating inspiration into refined, relevant designs with clarity and intention.

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While my education at Kent State University, The Calgary Fashion Institute, and my time studying in New York City laid the foundation for my technical expertise, it's my hands-on industry experience that continues to shape and define me as a designer. I thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environments and am constantly driven to evolve—creating fashion that is intentional, expressive, and refined.

-April Onishenko