Hot Topic
Shirt Design Contest
When Hot Topic launched a design contest to celebrate Studio Ghibli, it felt like the perfect opportunity to merge my passion for illustration with a brand known for championing pop culture and alternative style. Hot Topic’s shelves have always been a haven for fans looking to wear their favorite stories, so I set out to create shirt designs that would fit seamlessly into that world — bold, playful, and instantly recognizable to Ghibli lovers.
Year
2019
Services
Illustration
Kiki Shirt: Ribbon of Memories
1st Place Winner
For the Kiki design, I explored the idea of a “ribbon of memories” — a flowing pink ribbon that twists and dances around Kiki, carrying glimpses of some of the film’s most memorable moments. It’s a way to showcase her journey, dreams, and small adventures all in one playful, looping illustration.
I kept the artwork in a soft storybook style, using a lineless style and whimsical details to highlight Kiki’s youthful spirit and optimism. The bright pink ribbon adds a pop of energy and ties the piece together, inviting fans to follow along Kiki’s path through the sky and into their own favorite memories from the film.
Totoro Shirt: Afternoon Naps
Fan Favorite Design
For the Totoro design, I wanted to capture one of the most heartwarming moments from My Neighbor Totoro — the peaceful afternoon nap shared by Totoro and the girls. The concept centers around a soft, dreamy bubble that holds this cozy scene, almost like a memory or daydream floating by.
I used a child-like illustration style to keep it playful and endearing, with gentle lines and a pastel-inspired palette that emphasizes innocence and whimsy. The goal was to evoke that pure, comforting joy that makes Totoro so timeless, while creating a graphic that fans would instantly recognize and feel connected to.
Collaboration & Experience
Working alongside the teams at Hot Topic and Studio Ghibli to bring these designs to life was an incredible opportunity. Throughout the process, I collaborated closely with their creative and brand teams, refining each concept through rounds of thoughtful feedback and revisions. Together, we made sure every detail — from Totoro’s gentle smile to the playful curve of Kiki’s ribbon — stayed true to Ghibli’s beloved characters and storytelling.
This experience not only deepened my appreciation for maintaining brand integrity but also challenged me to elevate my own illustration and design skills. Navigating the balance between artistic expression and brand guidelines was both rewarding and invaluable. Ultimately, it was an amazing chance to help create apparel that lets fans carry a piece of Ghibli’s magic with them, and a project that pushed me to grow as both an artist and a designer.