Is this your first collection?
This is my third collection. I feel that my brand identity has become further defined since my first collection.
How did you get into fashion?
Like many inspiring creative designers, it was something I always wanted to do. So I focused all my efforts since I was a child and now as a young man to pursue a career in fashion.
What’s the inspiration behind this specific collection?
The inspiration of my Fall/Winter 2014 collection was driven by the ideals of American pedestrian uniforms from denim to leather to basic t-shirts. I considered images that encompass “America” as in the U.S.A. Images of 1920’s tuxedos, biker gear (the leather), cowboys, and the easy jeans and tees of 1990’s fashion.
Tell us about the materials, fabrications, and details used.
One of the materials I used in this Fall 2014 collection which I really enjoyed working with and seeing the final product is a hairy cowhide. I especially like it in the cowhide motorcycle jacket. I also really like the idea of shorts under skirts so I designed a skirt with a reversible zipper that runs along the front opening to reveal a pair of shorts underneath , which can be unzipped entirely. I call it the Infinite Skirt. Playing with cut-out and unconventional negative space on garments is a detail that I have used on several occasions in my collections. My Parallel Dress this season is an apron dress that is held to the body by chain straps that continue to drop free at the back past the natural waist. I adore the ideas and details of having a garment exposing certain areas, and seams that open up into slits. I also work with a broad array of fabrics and the use of eco-friendly materials when possible is something that I consider very important.If you compared your designs to any place in the world, where would it be?
New York and other urban centers such as Le Defense Financial District in Paris. These areas exhibit the contrasts that I find so inspiring. Sleek, clean, modern and gritty.
One of the materials I used in this Fall 2014 collection which I really enjoyed working with and seeing the final product is a hairy cowhide. I especially like it in the cowhide motorcycle jacket. I also really like the idea of shorts under skirts so I designed a skirt with a reversible zipper that runs along the front opening to reveal a pair of shorts underneath , which can be unzipped entirely. I call it the Infinite Skirt. Playing with cut-out and unconventional negative space on garments is a detail that I have used on several occasions in my collections. My Parallel Dress this season is an apron dress that is held to the body by chain straps that continue to drop free at the back past the natural waist. I adore the ideas and details of having a garment exposing certain areas, and seams that open up into slits. I also work with a broad array of fabrics and the use of eco-friendly materials when possible is something that I consider very important.If you compared your designs to any place in the world, where would it be?
New York and other urban centers such as Le Defense Financial District in Paris. These areas exhibit the contrasts that I find so inspiring. Sleek, clean, modern and gritty.
What fashion rules do you think should never be broken?
Fashion rules should be considered in their context and there are exemptions to every rule. I take a somewhat pragmatic approach to such rules as well as my designs.
What are your feelings toward the Kimye VOGUE cover? Take away the celebrity aspect, do you think that aesthetic was VOGUE-worthy?
Vogue has continuously successfully evolved and changed with the times. Only VOGUE can decide what it VOGUE-worthy. It has never lost the power to influence us.