Gemma Slack

Interview with Gemma Slack

- Can you tell us a little bit about yourself as a fashion designer and your brand.

G: Gemma Slack is a contemporary, Luxury British Brand encapsulating innovative design and high quality. Her womenswear clothing and accessories are the embodiment of the 21st century female, the ranges portray both the edginess and femininity that today’s woman appreciates. Her clothes are experimental with a severe design edge, yet surprisingly wearable; Often using industrial and unusual materials, combined with innovative cutting, uncompromising tailoring and non-conformist, conceptual design with an aim to re-invent chic dressing.

- Can you tell us a little bit about the new Spring/Summer 2009, what were your initial concepts?

G: The initial concept for A/W2009, was based around ideas of science and religion, and their relevance in the 21st century. And ideas to do with modern society, social engineering and protection... and an obvious 80’s sci-fi vibe for good measure!

- Regarding your S/S 2009 collection, can you tell us a little bit about the detail.

G: The detail were all based around mystical creatures and nosferatu, and envisaged details and silhouettes that would belong to them. The detail was intended to represent different facets and textures of the creatures whilst highlight elements of the female form.

- Do you have any favourite materials/fabrics and/or special techniques you enjoy using?

G: Definitely Leather at the moment, its so versatile, and dynamic. I’m still enjoying finding different techniques and methods to use. Most recently I’ve been experimenting with molding leathers.

- In the beginning, what actually made you get into designing?

G: I think it was just a natural progression from fine art and what I was already doing. All my work took a focus on the female form, so my tutor at Chelsea suggested I do fashion, and I just kind of went with it.

- How would you describe your style?

G: I always find this kind of question very difficult to answer, I think style is a constant evolution. Generally I am always inspired by the dark and gothic, and I think this translates into my style and will do for the foreseeable future, but I wouldn’t like to categorise my style/work so early on.

- What are your opinions on the current Europe fashion scenes?

G: I think it has been a bit static for the past few years, but I think there is definitely starting to be a re - emergence of good exciting work, I think it just a case of waiting. I think a lot of good works is going to be born out of the recession, and weed out the weak from the strong.

- Where is your favourite place to have relax or dayoff?

G: Relax? Dayoff? I don’t know what that is!

- What are your career plans, do you have any future goals?

G: At present I just want to keep moving forward with my collections and experimenting with design and techniques. Along with this I’m working on producing a complimenting sales collection. Which should be in the shops next spring.

- Do you have some words of wisdom for any young designers and our
readers?

G: Erm…well I’m still a young designer! But I would say work hard, experimentation and dedication. Also assisting and interning is a great way to learn.

Website : http://www.gemmaslack.com/

Written by Toshimi Takaishi