Until I was eighteen, I did not know that you could study fashion design or art. I really didn't know. I already had my nose in the art world; I was already looking at things, but I didn't really get it that you could study that because my school was a very different environment.

The quote by Raf Simons reflects his personal journey of discovery and the realization that fashion design and art could be studied as formal subjects. He explains that, until he was eighteen, he was unaware that one could pursue a career in these fields through formal education. Despite already being immersed in the art world, looking at and appreciating various forms of art, he didn’t realize it was possible to study and develop professionally in these areas. This highlights how environment and exposure can shape one's understanding of possibilities.

Raf Simons, a renowned Belgian fashion designer, is known for his minimalist and avant-garde approach to design. His quote sheds light on how his early education and environment didn't encourage creative exploration in a structured way. Coming from a background where the focus may have been more on traditional education, he wasn’t aware of the pathways into the art and fashion worlds until later in life, which shows how career possibilities can sometimes seem out of reach without the proper exposure or guidance.

The mention of a "very different environment" refers to the contrast between Simons' schooling and the worlds of fashion and art he was drawn to. While he was already interested in and influenced by art, the idea of pursuing it professionally was not something he encountered until much later. This disconnect may resonate with many who grow up in environments where creative careers are not highlighted, leading them to unknowingly overlook the possibility of pursuing their passions through formal education.

Simons' statement underscores how important it is to have access to information and role models that can inspire young people to pursue their creative interests. It also highlights the sometimes serendipitous nature of career paths, where individuals like Simons, despite their early lack of awareness, find their way into the world of fashion and art later in life. His journey emphasizes the value of opportunity and exposure in shaping one's professional and creative path.