We're beyond excited to have designer Austin Scarlett here with us today to chat about his latest collection and his life as a designer. Welcome, Austin!
Hitched: Thanks for chatting with us, Austin. First off, what inspires you?
Austin Scarlett: This season I was inspired by the immortal beauty of the flower but inspiration can come from anywhere really! As a designer you have to keep your eyes open and take everything in. You never know where you’re going to find beauty. As far as motivation, I’m always motivated by the idea of romance.
How did you get your start in fashion?
As a child I was always drawn to beautiful things. I would play dress up with my sisters and create my childhood version of “couture” gowns for them by draping them in our mother’s tablecloths and bedclothes. They were good sports about it then but I think they prefer to wear my current creations now!
Tell us a bit about your design process.
My design process changes depending on what I’m designing and who I’m designing for! I generally start by gathering as much information about my client as I can and letting her inspire me. I’ll usually begin on paper by sketching and then move to the form to start draping fabric. Although I have a team of couturiers who help me transform my sketches to reality, its an organic process so based on how the fabric is falling I usually end up changing things as the garment is being created. Once the initial idea is nailed down we start actually sewing the gown. This process can be time consuming since a good deal of my work requires fine hand stitching. Finishing touches and flourishes are applied and voila! A gown is born.
Describe your personal style.
My personal style and the style of my wedding and evening gowns are very much
intertwined. Since I design and wear what I love I find it almost impossible to separate the two in my mind. I am often drawn to glamour and old world touches. I love technical perfection so when a garment is constructed according to couture standards I just can’t resist!
What do you like to do on your day off?
Well nowadays my days off are few and far between so when I do have a rare moment of rest I like to see where the wind takes me and not plan too many activities. I really enjoy cooking for my loved ones – I have a few secret recipes than shall remain secret! I also love perusing the flea markets of NYC. Some of my most treasured possessions came from searching through piles of antiques at flea markets! Its also a great place to wander and collect inspiration (not to mention people watch!)
OK, this is a two part question-- What trends do you expect to see in 2013? Do you have any favorite or least favorite trends?
Actually most trends are my least favorite. I don’t like the idea of trends. It goes against my love of timelessness and old world beauty. I try my best not to pay attention to what’s current and just design what I think is elegant and glamorous.
A huge thanks to Austin Scarlett for stopping by! For the chance to meet him and check out these gorgeous designs in person, be sure to make an appointment for our upcoming Austin Scarlett Trunk Show on March 1st & 2nd!
[Photos courtesy Austin Scarlett]
