Liz Heisler: Fashion showcase
Liz Heisler is a fourth-year fashion design major from Toledo, Ohio. Photo by Crosby Ignasher.
Describe the process from inception to completion of your look.
I knew I wanted to do a leather collection probably since my sophomore year, so I started working with it in my apparel classes. Then this summer I started researching my concept, which is the Book of Revelations. I read it again and again, and started sketching ideas. I chose to focus on the four horsemen of the apocalypse and refine my structural techniques to create a sort of skeletal suit of amour. My collection is very symbolic—the print, the number of strips and shape of the garment, all of it has reference.
What was the experience like?
It was tough to say the least. Everything was an experiment, and I took on a lot by having such complex designs. For certain garments I draped them strip by strip, trying to contour the body. Construction was very difficult and time consuming. I worked with fabrics I’ve never used before and it was definitely a learning experience.
What inspired you?
My concept is really unique and inspiring to me. There were so many different ways I could have gone with it. It was interesting to create something so creepy and dark, even though I was referencing religion. I’m also really inspired by pattern making, breaking things down and building them back up into something new. For this collection I focused a lot on the human body, anatomy and skeletal system. It’s so interesting how it contours and moves. I wanted to make almost like a second skin.
Describe your aesthetic. What are you trying to accomplish?
My aesthetic is very detail oriented. I wanted to make an intricate couture collection. Part of my aesthetic is making the inside of my garments just as interesting and beautiful as the outside. My collection is all black and mostly leather because I wanted something that will be timeless, like purchasing a leather jacket. Some people keep those forever. Looking like a badass will always be in style.
Are you nervous about the show? How do you feel? What are your thoughts?
I’m not super nervous. We have done all we can till this point. Now we can sit back and watch it all come together.
How has this prepared you for the future?
Definitely prepared us for the industry—how to manage time and [do] what is realistic.
What is your professional experience, if any?
I have interned with Lip Service and Jeremy Scott.
When did you decide to pursue a career in fashion?
In high school I wanted to pursue art in some way. I’m from a very small town and never had a good program or direction. When I started looking at schools, I decided I wanted to go into fashion, but was nervous because I had no idea how to even sew.
What are some of most pressing issues facing today’s fashion designers, models and accessory designers?
Definitely fast fashion is an issue. With stores like Forever 21 who offer really cheap, trendy clothes, no one really considers quality. You can buy a ton of clothes, wear them a few times, then throw them away. Fashion as an art form is dying out. No one wants to stand out; they want to be on trend.
Do you have advice for future designers?
Challenge yourself. Time is an issue, but you get out of it what you put into it. Create something you don’t know how to do, experiment, collaborate. Try not to get lost in what other people think you should do, because there will be so many different opinions. This is such a subjective industry—one person can love something and another person will hate it, but you need to stay true to yourself.
Do you want to add anything?
Overall this experience has been crazy. This is definitely the hardest I have worked on something. Not all of it has been great, but in the end I have learned so much and that’s reason we are all here.