Education & Awards

Originally from Connecticut, Arkins refined his creative and professional skills by attending the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles. Renowned for its cutting-edge approach to design and business education, FIDM provided Christian with a strong foundation in fashion design, branding, and entrepreneurship.

Living and studying in Los Angeles, a global hub for fashion and creativity, allowed him to immerse himself in a dynamic environment that shaped his innovative approach to the industry. This blend of East Coast roots and West Coast education has been instrumental in defining his career, enabling him to bridge creativity with strategy in groundbreaking ways.

AWARDS

2004 Perry Ellis Designer Of The Year | Original Penguin

2011 Modefabrik \ Amsterdam Creativity Award for Best Brand Presentation In Show | McGregor

2012 Fashion Heritage Award Benelux | McGregor

2013 Bread & Butter Berlin Design / Creative Direction Award | Twenty One by McGregor

2015 Benelux Window Design Winner | Best Overall Brand Creative & Brand Lifestyle Presentation | McGregor

  • Hamden Hall Country School

    Hamden, Connecticut

    Class of 1992

    Athlete of the Year '92

  • Muhlenberg College

    Allentown, Pennsylvania

    Class of 1996

    B.A. Business & Economics

    B.A. Entrepreneurial Studies

  • Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

    Los Angeles, California

    Class of 1998

    A.A. Apparel Manufacturing

    A.A. Fashion Design

    Apparel Manufacturing Student Of The Year '98