Los Angeles Fashion Council

Brand / Designer

Together / Lily Chehrazi and Benedict Barrett

Category

Contemporary Women’s & Unisex / Clothing

Brand information / About the designer

―What inspired you to become a fashion designer? Describe developments leading up to the brand launch.

Since I was 13 years old I have been interested in storytelling through appearance. At first I had a strong interest in costume design, interpreting language into a visual concept. Eventually, I found it more satisfying to adapt that idea to every day clothing, determining a visual statement for the average person as opposed to actors and using my own vision instead of a director’s. I like the idea of an outward expression of an internal emotion, or clothing that empowers the person wearing it.

―What is the brand’s concept? What do you want to communicate through fashion designing? What are the images of men and women you want to project?

Linden is an eco-friendly brand for meant to inspire confidence in women. The clothing is body conscious but flattering, highlighting the assets of all body types. Often using leather details, Linden garments have an edgy but accessible feel. Leather trimmed tops and bottoms allow for an exciting look that can be worn day or night.

―What is your source of inspiration in creating fashion? What is your process of developing a design concept?

I often use literature, film, art, and music for inspiration. I try to let my inspiration find me by going to museums and concerts, watching movies, or reading. What usually happens is that I experience will begin to translate into garment shapes in my mind and then I know what I have found. I let the concept marinate for a while until I finally sit down and draw the collection out onto paper.

―Who are your current stockists (areas, retail formats, etc.)? Describe the typical followers of your brand.

My current stockists are brick and mortor boutiques that carry non-mainstream brands. Followers of my brand tend to be consumers interested in an American-made, eco-friendly product, but also the fashion forward tastemakers seeking the next big thing.

―Which brands, designers, styles and cultures have had the most impact on your fashion designing, and why?

I am very much inspired by the practicality necessary in urban culture. Wearing something comfortable but still stylish, easy to move in, but still sexy. Growing up with such a strong interest in art I found that visual artists inspire me the most, but brand that influenced me over the years include Helmut Lang, Prada, Moschino, Vince, and Elsa Schapiarelli. I love the sleek stylish brands that take risks with fabric choices and have a tongue-in-cheek message in their collections.

About 2014-15 A/W collection

―Why have you chosen Tokyo (or MBFWT) as the venue for presenting your collection?

As a part of the Los Angeles Fashion Council, I was presented with the opportunity for MBFWT, and was just thrilled at the idea of showing in a city with such a cultural devotion to fashion. I have always wanted to go to Japan and the opportunity to be a part of fashion week and experience Tokyo simultaneously is a dream come true.

―What is the concept / image for your brand’s 2014-15 A/W season?

The concept for 2014-2015 AW season is based on the artist James Turrell’s recent retrospective at the LA County Museum of Art. The idea of “perception” and experiencing light and dark emotionally is the concept behind the the collection.

―What is your vision for your show / installation?

I would love to have models transforming each look as they wear them. Appearing layered and undressing, then redressing into a new look entirely.

Future

―What are your brand’s future outlook and goal for 2014?

My goal is to acquire 50 new stores by the end of 2014, gaining the momentum to become a well known brand. I hope that Linden can help show that eco-friendly brands can also be fashion forward.

About TOKYO

―What does Tokyo represent for you?

To me, Tokyo represents a bold and daring consumer base, willing to embrace a unique point of view.

―Which parts / sites of Tokyo do you like most? Why?

I’ve never been to Tokyo, but I’ve read a number of books by Japanese authors who, in detail, describe the city. I really would just love to experience the city I’ve read about, things as simple as riding in the public transportation system, going stop to stop, and letting the city unfold for me.

―What are your favorite / recommended shops (of any genres, e.g. fashion stores, homeware stores, food services), facilities and sites?

I honeslty know very little about Tokyo sites, shops and facilities, but based on the reading I have done in the past, I am interested in learning more about Ginza, Harajuku, and Shibuya.