HUMBLE CONNOR INTERVIEW
I first stumbled across HUMBLE CONNOR on Linkedin; I was instantly hooked on their Avant-Guard, Futuristic, and Gender Fluid style. When often asked what does fashion means to me, I would usually respond by saying that it means representing your personality and confidence. HUMBLE CONNOR is operated by wife: Humble and husband: Gabe. Humble is the visionary behind the designs while Gabe voices the brand’s creativity through marketing. HC is an emerging fashion brand whose niche is READY TO WEAR, Which in a couple of years will be one of the leading fashion labels on the runway! After speaking with the Humble the designer for HC, I felt the need to share their artistry on my platform. I love everything that they stand for and to witness HC blossom to a brand will change the vision of fashion is quite humbling. I introduce to you HUMBLE CONNOR below let’s dive into a whimsical journey of creativity, diversity and impeccable fashion sense. - Xo Mosi
What is the inspiration behind your brand?
The inspiration behind HUMBLE CONNOR is reality v.s fantasy. Pieces that connect with the soul and that don't restrain the body in any way. Comfort but style is driven. The idea that my husband and I can wear the same shirt and it suits both body types in a flattering fluid way.
I began HC by creating experimental clothes in my bedroom and parents garage as a way to escape my reality. I guess aiming to create a new world away from the emotions I was feeling at the time. With lots of support from my family, I decided to turn my therapy/hobby into a brand.
In 2015 HUMBLE CONNOR had its first debut with the collection Peace of Fruit that was based on healthy ways we discovered to combat depression and anxiety.
My husband Gabriel and I are partners and run the day to day business. We’re involving into a conceptual avant-garde ready to wear brand with ethical values and procedures. We’re still figuring it all out but there’s no middle man just us.
What are some of your favorite trends?
One of my favorite trends are women in suits.A concept that ‘I’ve always loved and felt related to. It portrays a powerful message to me about the modern no bull shit businesswoman, who dreams of doing it all.
Growing a successful business and a healthy family.
What do you consider the important facets of the fashion industry?
DIVERSITY and forward thinkingness.
Define what fashion means to you?
I believe that fashion is a state of mind. A world of infinite possibilities. One of the only industries that connect so many dots from other industries, stories, people and ideas.
Fashion is the melting pot of the world. Right next to art.
What skills according to you are necessary for a successful fashion designer?
A Lot of reading and research. Exploring/building on ideas and seeking inspiration outside and within you to create. Strong-mindedness against trends and changes within the industry BUT having the strength to find a new voice and move forward just as fashion moves forward with the times.
The hardest part is moving past your ignorance(comfort level) and doing what’s best for your clients and company. I think it’s vital for designers to know how to sew and cut.
Even if you are not in the workroom sewing every day and let's say you have a seamstress you’re collaborating with, it’s so important to know of the construction process so you can have a strong communication about the garment details. Knowing this process is the beginning of a headache and a huge appreciation for how clothes are made.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career as a Fashion Designer?
What convinced me that I could turn fashion design into a career was working in my mom's seamstress shop.
When the customers didn't have an idea of what they wanted to be sewn they would ask me to design something for them. During those early years, I started to take fashion and art very serious. It’s dramatic but I basically told myself I would dedicate my life to creating.
Some days aren’t ideal but I still feel married to that promise.
What is your favorite part of being a fashion designer?
My favorite part about being a fashion designer is creating conceptual collections that hold a message that is stronger than any garment walking down the runway.
I use fashion as my mouth-piece and platform to participate in conversations and show what has been on my mind that season. Collections are like diaries for me! Another part about being a fashion designer that I love is helping people to realize that they are as edgy and as special as the clothes.
Surprisingly most people feel otherwise. It’s amazing what the right outfit can do to someone's smile, posture self-esteem….I wear my clothes as armor when I step into the world. I hope when people wear HUMBLE CONNOR they feel strong beautiful and purposeful.
A special thank you to the Humble Connor Team ! Please make sure to follow them on all social media links found below !
CONTACT INFO
Instagram: @humbleconnor
Facebook: humbleconnor.net
Twitter: humbleconnor_
Website: www.humbleconnor.net
Phone: 704-912-6824
Email: Humbleconnor@gmail.com
Photo Credits:
Photographer: Don Porter Photography
Hair/Makeup: Lydia from Pink Warrior Makeup Artistry
Model: Erica Miller
Creative Director/wardrobe: Humble Romero
Fashion Designs: HUMBLE CONNOR