A young woman from Folsom is quickly rising to success in the national ranks of fashion design. Folsom’s own Echo Gu, has been named one of just five members of Teen Vogue’s “Generation Next” Class of 2024, joining a select group of emerging designers celebrated for their creativity, innovation, and sustainable practices. Gu, a recent graduate from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a B.F.A. in Fashion Design, is already making her mark on the fashion world with her eco-conscious bridal creations.
Gu, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), specializes in bridal wear that combines artistic innovation with sustainable practices. Her inclusion in this elite program reflects not only her talent but also the impact of SCAD’s top-ranked fashion program, which emphasizes environmental responsibility and personal expression.
“Fashion has been my guiding light on a journey to reclaim my voice and identity,” cites Gu. “Born in China and journeying to America, I embarked on a path to grow into the inspiring fashion designer I aspire to be. It’s this personal quest that fuels my passion for designing garments that speak volumes, weaving individual stories into every stitch.”
Teen Vogue’s “Generation Next” Class is known for spotlighting the brightest young minds in fashion each year. This year’s winners were challenged to create forward-thinking designs using upcycled materials, infusing their work with personal history and cultural significance. Out of more than 100 applicants, Gu’s collection stood out for its creative use of sustainable textiles and her ability to weave narratives into her pieces.
An esteemed panel of judges—including Teen Vogue Editor-in-Chief Versha Sharma, designer Bach Mai, creator and entrepreneur Emma Chamberlain, celebrity stylist Jared Ellner, and Revolve fashion director Divya Mathur—selected the finalists. Judges were impressed by Gu’s ability to elevate traditional bridal design through the lens of sustainability.
Gu’s recognition is part of a larger success story for SCAD, which had five students—including Gu—selected for this year’s “Generation Next” cohort. The other SCAD honorees include Sedona Scott, Jackie Picard, Imran Alifu, and Rakee Chen, all recognized for their innovative approaches to fashion. SCAD students made up the majority of the honorees, reinforcing the institution’s reputation as a leading force in art and design education.
In addition to her B.F.A. in Fashion Design, she pursued a minor in Fashion Marketing, gaining skills that help her bridge creative vision with practical business strategies.
“Working alongside professionals from diverse fields over the years has broadened my perspective and enriched my artistic endeavors,” she said. “Collaboration is at the heart of my creative process. Each partnership has been a learning experience, shaping me into a more holistic artist.”
Gu’s passion for bridal wear stems from her desire to create garments that carry personal significance while being mindful of their environmental impact. Her designs focus on reusing and repurposing materials, setting a new standard in a field often associated with excess.
“Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity,” Gu emphasized. “I want my designs to be beautiful but also meaningful—to celebrate life’s most important moments without creating waste.”
Her distinctive approach to bridal fashion caught the attention of the Teen Vogue judges, who praised her for blending artistry and environmental awareness. Gu’s work demonstrates how the next generation of designers can redefine luxury by integrating sustainability into every aspect of their craft.
“My creations are for those who seek to be remembered at their best, with narratives uniquely their own,” Gu explained. “Each stitch in my designs tells a story, offering clients a way to wear their personal histories and emotions.”
Gu’s works exemplify the values celebrated by Teen Vogue’s “Generation Next” initiative: creativity, sustainability, and storytelling. As one of seven winners, Gu received a $1,000 prize, which she plans to invest in further developing her bridal collections.
Gu’s success story serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring designers in the Folsom area but also to young creatives everywhere. By infusing her work with cultural narratives and personal history. Her recognition in the “Generation Next” Class of 2024 is just the beginning. With her education, experience, and passion for design, Gu is poised to make a lasting impact in the bridal industry and beyond.
“Fashion allows me to express my identity and reclaim my voice. I hope my work inspires others to embrace their own stories and celebrate who they are through the garments they wear,” Gu cites throughout her professional bio. You can view her entire project for the I Am My Beloved series HERE.
