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About the Designer: Heidi VKC: Why/when did you start designing? Heidi: I would say that my first true design collaboration was with my mom when I was about seven on the design of my first commu- nion dress. I learned to sew at a young age but it wasn’t until junior high that I started to see that sewing could provide me with a creative outlet. The first skirt I draped was draped on myself using an iridescent satin from a thrift store. Needless to say, it didn’t fit very well. At the age of 14 I discovered vintage clothing at a small shop in downtown Wichita. I would go there every chance I could get and would spend hours trying on dress after dress. I believe that these visits had a profound effect on what I choose to design for the Heidi Her- rman line today. Herrman VKC: What’s your design history? Heidi: My design history is a bit all over the place because my primary career path within the apparel industry was in children’s and juniors sportswear. While living in New York (1998- 2005) I was able to gain a wealth of experience within the industry because I chose to be a freelance graphic and clothing designer. Besides the jobs that I have had within the industry, the Heidi Herrman line/label is a new endeavor. My line is quite different, aesthetically, than any product I have worked with in the past. I think that for me, it is important to keep my design heart close and to make my living designing and advising on a product that is very different from where I find the depth of my inspiration. That being said, I do believe that the Heidi Herrman line will support me fully in the future.
VKC: Where has designing taken you (geo- graphically and in terms of success)? Heidi: I have been fortunate in that I have been able to travel to many unique places with my employers. South Korea, Thailand, Barcelona, and Munich are amongst my favorite business trips. In terms of success, I have been fortunate in that I have played a contributing role in the growth and success of quite a few American Apparel Manufacturers. I have a great deal of knowledge about design and the manufactur- ing processes of apparel. I have traveled because I have learned how to make things better and have proven to be a valuable asset to the compa- nies that have employed me. VKC: What inspires you? Heidi: I think at the base of my inspiration is a want and a need to create beauty. I am profoundly influenced by silhouettes of past eras, all forms of sculpture, color, print and texture. I find that my most inspired thoughts come when I travel.
VKC: Do you have a signature piece/ technique/design that is recognizable as the Heidi Herrman label? Heidi: I excel at tailored wovens. I love to use unique prints and I am partial to dresses and skirts. ^ For more information, visit heidiherrman.com.
35 vintagekc spring 2016
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