The DreamCatcher Series returns with Australian designer Jessie Hill, whose work I'm completely smitten with! She's such a cool person + was very generous with her time. I love that she decided to give us a glimpse into her world + a snippet of her A/W 09 collection dubbed "Women as Great Men". I hope you enjoy, because there are several more that will be added to the series next week!
Could you please tell us a little bit about your background?
I started out as a wardrobe assistant for film and television when I was 16. I moved to LA with little money in the bank, and pleaded with my parents for their approval! I landed a job at MTV and worked as a stylist assistant for music videos. I later moved into editorial fashion for magazines such as Vogue and Harpers. I was approached by a British Label, Buddhist Punk, to style their London show, and six months later I was working as their head women's wear designer. My first collection showed at New York Fashion Week in 2005 — oh boy, it was a bit emperors new clothes.
I didn't quite know what I was doing back then, but I have certainly honed in on my strengths. My garments are well constructed and three dimensional now. One of the Designers at Buddhist Punk, Adam Entwisle {who graduated from Central Saint Martins}, taught me a lot about design development, research, and having the confidence to go out on my own. All of this lead me to start my own label in 2006.
What is your design process?
To be honest a lot of thinking and contemplation. I can't even begin to embark on a collection without a crystal clear vision and strong direction. I start collection with a series of pictures, photos, bit's of fabrics, and ribbons.
Who are your favourite designers?
Vivienne Westwood for her pure punk attitude! Ricardo Tisci for his dark sexy approach. Alexander McQueen for his high drama, and Emma Cook. There are just so many amazing designers.
What inspires you?
Music, Music, Music!
My collection always starts with a sound track, that triggers all those emotions that help you start building a collection. My friends are a huge inspiration also. I collaborate with artist friends — one being Elke Kramer, who works with me on my intricate prints and accessories for my runway shows. She is such a talented designer and when we work together it's magic! We made life size polished resin dolls hand belts for my last spring/summer show.
Do you have a favorite piece from any of your collections?
It would have to be the "Crazy Back Dress". Its has a multitude of bustles frill at the back, and It's a wonderfully seductive dress. Also the "Diamond Back Rattler Dress", named after my friend's band, it's covered with native bead embellishments in vibrant acid colors.
What kind of woman do you design for?
Left of center women who are risk takers and are looking for something completely unique. I like to think of myself as a transformer. Some of my clients sometimes say "Oh I'm not sure if I can pull this garment off" (as most of my clothes are very "bod-con" {body conscious}). But once they are in the garment they feel transformed, and confident to wear it.
Your advice to anyone wishing to become a fashion designer?
Get proper training. It will make the process a little easier, and work with a designer who you respect — learn as much as you can on the job!
Words you live by?
Expression, passion, intuition, drama, love, risk.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I want to do a runway show in both New York and London, I just have to convince my sponsors.
What is your definition of a "DreamCatcher" ?
Aside from owning one in the nineties. My analogy is that it's someone who wants to capture something, that may be abstract and out of reach, who turn it into a reality! Dreams are so important in this dark age. I believe they can surely happen if you have the right attitude.
Above are looks from the A/W 09 collection and below are looks from the S/S 09 collection.
Fotos Jessie Hill for usage on SheBreathes.
Visit Jessie Hill for more information on all her collections and stockist.
