Tell me about the Claire Barrow brand and its main concepts?
I want the brand to be an artistic expression of myself every season. I’m influenced by punk and self-expression and that’s how I got into doing the leather hand-painted jackets. The whole idea of being a bit of a show-off. It is slightly self-indulgent in that I’m taking my own inspiration and doing what I want but I like the whole idea of whoever buys it to express something about themselves – I think that’s kind of appealing about fashion and that’s what fashion is really.
What words would you use to describe the Claire Barrow look?
DIY, quite loud because it’s saying something most of the time and appreciative of craft.
Are you working on any specific commissions at the moment?
I’m still finishing off my line for Joseph and I’ve got some pieces from this collection going into production to sell to shops; the line shirts and silk dresses. I’m still doing jackets on commission. I did a commission for Rihanna but to be honest celebrity culture doesn’t really bother me that much, it’s not something I’m working towards. I’m more interested in people who like it and can interpret it their own way.
What can we expect from the Claire Barrow label for autumn/winter 2013?
Without giving too much away you will see me move into a different direction with my work. This season is a lot more considered and will hopefully get a positive response.
Why do you think there is an appetite for a creative brand like Claire Barrow at the moment?
People who are interested in fashion want to see more than just clothes, they want to see creative ideas, innovation and the designer’s signature style. They want more for their money so by making each garment personal makes the brand more special.
There are so many clothes out there that if you have a unique signature that people have not necessarily seen interpreted in your way before than that’s very appealing.
Where do you see the brand in 3-5 years time?
Who knows in the fashion industry, but hopefully if I stay true to myself as an artist and follow my vision, even if my creative direction changes, the brand wont become boring.
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