A few months ago, I learned about Fischer Clothing, and have since kept tabs on this lovingly created brand. I would say more, but I’d rather you read it straight from the designer herself!

What inspired you to develop your own line?
My idea is to create a collection of Mens and Womens American sportswear, sustainably manufactured here in the US. The pieces are higher quality in fabric and construction, and intended to stay in style and to have a long life. It’s really a slow-fashion model, you’re investing in quality. As for the aesthetic- it’s very classic, but with vintage inspiration and inventive details to keep it interesting and fresh.

Where is the name “Fischer” from?
I wanted the line to have its own personality. So I decided to give it a name a little removed from my own- Fischer’s a Scottish name I found digging through some family ancestry. I liked the sound and feel of it and thought it suited the concept perfectly.

How many people do you work with?
Not too many- I really only hire people on for photo shoots and of course work with a local factory for production. I’d love to have a few extra hands, so hopefully next year!

Though your aesthetic is clear, each collection has a distinct theme, what influenced the design of the Fall 2010 vs the Spring 2011 collections?
For Fall 10, I drew a lot of inspiration from artist Jules Pascin. His work is pretty somber and minimal, and he makes beautiful use of line, mood and contrast. He was known for mixing materials and testing different methods of painting and drawing. I incorporated this into my work by pairing off combos like shell and corduroy on one of the dresses. A men’s vest I did a wool front with chambray back and lining; trying to make subtle, but interesting juxtapositions.

For Spring, I spent a lot of time designing under the influence of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. I love the laid-back, dreamy vibe- with a tinge of 70′s nostalgia. There’s like 20 people in the band playing all sorts of instruments, which creates a really interesting sound. This translated into a collection of casual styles cut from higher-end fabrics- I used a lot of different shades and weights of denim, linens, silks, flowery prints and casual plaids in a range of mostly natural colors and all natural fibers.

Can you describe the design process from start to finish of your favorite piece in your latest collection?
It always starts with the general concept; I pull together a mood board of inspiring imagery. Next I choose the fabrics and trims. I like to let the fabric direct the shape of the garment, the way it hangs, move, the weight of it, etc. Then I’ll do a few rough sketches and see how everything looks together as a line. I try to pre-edit as much as possible so there’s a lot less waste.
From Spring 11, one of my favorite pieces was a women’s dress with a water color-y circle print. It’s a lightweight linen and drapes beautifully. And it’s a little transparent, which is cool. It’s a more expensive fabric, but I kept it in a looser casual style- like a perfect beach daydress.

The photos on your site are presented in a similarly antique/dream-like atmosphere, how do you decide the appropriate environment for your photos?
The shoot is one of my favorite parts of the process. I worked in theater for a while and the biggest thrill is putting all the costumes on the actors, in makeup, on stage with the scenery and music and all that. Which is why I prefer to shoot the lookbooks in a creative and inspiring environment, I still get that feeling of completion. When researching a location I keep the theme of that season in mind try to find something that will compliment the collection. Most of the homes are interior designers… I’m thinking of changing it up for Spring 12, though…

Where can Fischer be purchased and do you have plans to open up a store of your own?
Currently the line is carried at Thistle and Clover (Brooklyn, NY), Deen (Jersey City, NJ) and online at TheClothingMenu.com. I’m very excited to share the news that an online shop is going to be added to the site in February! I’ll keep you posted.

What’s in store for the next collection?

What advice could you give to an aspiring young designer?
Do some good internships and learn as much as you can working for someone else and or at school….. when you’re ready to go out on your own, be prepared for a ton of work that you absolutely love to do.