Christian Siriano & Cushnie et Ochs give back at Saks Jandel’s annual fashion show.
Katherine Vernot-Jonas, Kurt Newman, and Christian Siriano. (Photo by Kyle Samperton)
Both the fashion forward and socially conscious recently came out for champagne and canapés at Saks Jandel’s annual brunch, fashion show and fund-raising event recently. Local favorite Christian Siriano and up-and-comers Cushnie et Ochs showcased their Spring 2012 lines on the runway while guests shopped the collections in support of Children’s National Medical Center. Hosts Cindy Jones, Amy Baier and Mae Haney Grennan welcomed the crowd and introduced newly-named hospital CEO Dr. Kurt Newman.
Washington Life caught up with Siriano and Cushnie et Ochs at the event and asked him about the collection and more:
Washington Life: There is a luxurious aesthetic to your spring 2012 collection. What was the inspiration?
Christian Siriano: Its about casual luxury, the type of looks that work well for the woman who’s fond of traveling in style. I imagine her echoing the things she sees from the shores of Bali, Honduras, or Belize in her wardrobe.
WL: Was there a muse for the glamorous woman you imagined?
CS: A great visual inspiration for this collection was Katharine Hepburn’s wardrobe and movement in the 1955 film “Summertime.” As Jane Hudson, she arrives in Venice sporting chic white summer dresses, wide-leg men’s trousers, and tailored silk blouses. I hope this collection will similarly inspire any woman who wears it. My goal is, as always, to make my customer feel special when she is getting dressed. I think what is great about this collection is that there is such a mix of wearable clothing and something sophisticated for the evening.
WL: You’ve been a philanthropic presence in Washington for a few years now, How did this start?
CS: I loved showing my collection at Saks Jandel and when they asked me to support this cause it was a wonderful opportunity to give back using what I do every day. I try to use fashion and a show or performance to raise awareness because clothing is emotional. We all feel something different when we get up, get dressed and attack the day.
WL: With so many milestones behind you, what are your plans for the next six months?
CS: I may be opening some type of retail store in New York next year, so that could keep me busy for awhile. But we did have a wonderful year and I’m working very hard to keep my brand going. As a young designer that isn’t always easy.
WL: What do you consider your “I made it” moment?
CS: I don’t think I have had that moment yet. The brand is going to really grow in the next few years. In the works will be retail stores, bridal, more accessories, possibly more collaborations and maybe even more media and TV. I always say that being popular in the press is wonderful but the customer and retailers must be your biggest supporters. If the clothes don’t sell, nothing else matters long term.
