Fashion and dressing women is an artform

New York-based designer Frederick Anderson has been in the fashion industry for more than 20 years now, launching a variety of brands. He is known for his eponymous label and his luxurious, chic style collection. In an interview with Fibre2Fashion, the designer describes the aesthetic of his brand and highlights fashion in New York and its evolution.

Fibre2Fashion: How would you describe your journey in the world of fashion and what were the challenges faced as a designer?

Frederick Anderson:

I am a true lover of fashion. I have recently launched the second collection that I have owned, and it is the third that I have run. This collection is the first to carry my name and driven by my singular vision.

F2F: What drives you to design today? What inspires you season after season?

FA:

The world and women.

F2F: How would you define the aesthetic of your brand and how does the design process undergo behind each collection?

FA:

Each season is a new chapter in my continuing story. My medium of storytelling is fabrics and specifically concentrating on tweeds and laces. Recently, I have expanded into crochet and satins. As my women morphs and travels so does her needs and use of clothing.

F2F: Can you throw some light on fashion in New York and how it has evolved over the years?

FA:

Casual and sporting have replaced a more head to toe dressing. The influence of athletic wear has permanently altered the way we create and wear clothing. In NYC the impact is more immediate and even with the return of glamour following the COVID-19 shutdown, it’s with a casual and relaxed interpretation.

F2F: How realistic is the trend towards sustainability in the fashion industry? How do you include sustainability in your fashion creations?

FA:

To me sustainability is buying better. When you buy design, you get value and longevity, which is sometimes extended for many generations and decades if worn through resale. The whole sustainable conversation is more suited for fast disposable fashion which is what has created the crisis.

F2F: What are the noticeable trends and styles that can have the highest influence on fashion aspirants? Any prediction?

FA:

Individuality is king and I applaud it.

F2F: You have been in fashion industry since long! Is there anything you want to change in fashion education specifically?

FA:

Students are all assuming that they are creative directors and not designers. They need to learn their craft. Fashion and dressing women is an art form. Solving the ‘fit’ of your design is the problem that must be solved in every design. Understanding that process takes knowledge.

F2F: Tell us about your few favourite projects that you did and your forthcoming plans with your label?

FA:

Handbags are finally launching and I’m also looking forward to developing menswear.