Designer Spotlight: Anitra Michelle of PLUTOCRACY
Join the Plutocracy! In this interview with inCOLOR, fashion designer Anitra Michelle talks about her latest collection, style icons, and personal style, among other topics.
inCOLOR: Have you always had an interest in working in the fashion industry?
A.M.: My interest in working in the fashion industry started when I was in undergrad at Howard University. I worked for Diesel and from there, I knew I had a true love for textiles and the process of design, but I was still attempting to figure out how to get from point A to point B.
inCOLOR: If you could go back in time and live in any era where would you go?
A.M.: I would go to Paris because it’s romantic and full of life; in addition to it being another fashion capital that has a whole different reach and feel for the industry. I also love art and architecture, like Chateau de Versailles and Louvre Museum.
inCOLOR: What inspires your work?
A.M.: The idea that there are women out there that need me and love garments that allow them to be individual.
inCOLOR: Do you have any style icons?
A.M.: Bianca Jagger (a la ‘70s) , Madonna, Grace Coddington, Tom Ford, Carine Roitfeld, Kanye West.
inCOLOR: How did you come up with the theme for your latest collection?
A.M.: In my travels and my experiences I have seen various cultural references that have been disregarded and left by the wayside because of the initial interpretation. So, since my stint at Diesel (in the days of old) I have always been attracted to textiles and the variety allowed through fabrication manipulation It led me to explore the variety that could be had with African textiles.
inCOLOR: How did you come up with the name Plutocracy for your company?
A. M.: Plutocracy means ruled by the wealthy. I believe wealthy can span many bounds, i.e. wealthy in health, wealthy in finances, wealthy in style, etc. I feel that our society is ruled by those who are wealthy; therefore, I wanted to reference that group of individuals because it’s where all the trends seem to trickle down from.
inCOLOR: Do you have a typical person in mind when you design?
A.M.: The Corporate Rebel.
inCOLOR: What are some resolutions you have for the growth of your company?
A.M.: I’m determined to keep growing it because it comes from LOVE. I never let others dictate what I think is stylish and/or fashionable because it comes from within. Staying true to my vision while growing a brand, not just a clothing line.
inCOLOR: How would you describe your personal style?
A.M.: Relaxed and comfortable with a splash of originality.
inCOLOR: Where are your favorite places to shop?
A.M.: Various vintage shops all over the city and a couple of great finds in Long Island; I also like Funky Fanny’s, Brooklyn Flea and Screaming Mimi’s.
inCOLOR: What is the hardest part about being an entrepreneur?
A.M.: Keeping the vision and managing the team all while funding the dream!
inCOLOR: Where can people find your creations?
A.M.: Currently, we are confirmed for Michelle New York, EModa Boutique and online starting April 1; however, we have various other boutiques that are working on orders, so PLUTOCRACY will be available just in time for spring!
Check out the PLUTOCRACY Web site here.
poncee
Feb 15th 10
09:46 PM