Neat PEOPLE: Project Runway 8 designer Gretchen Jones
July 28, 2010 by karenvitt
Filed under Neat PEOPLE, Neat STUFF
By Karen Vitt, NEAT editor in chief
Here we go… again! Project Runway 8 premieres on Lifetime TV this Thursday, July 29 at 9 p.m., with yet another talented Portland area designer set to compete in a scissors showdown against 16 other fashionable folks from around the country. Last season, Vancouver, Wash.’s Seth Aaron Henderson brought home the Project Runway 7 win, and local designer Janeane Marie Ceccanti made Portland proud in the first few episodes, too. Now all eyes are on MothLove designer Gretchen Jones, to see if she has was it takes to dazzle on fashion’s most exciting show and make the Portland fashion community proud once more. Let’s see what she has to say…
Do you think you have what it takes to bring home another Project Runway win for Portland?
Well… expectations can lead to unrealistic standards on both ends. I certainly applied with a confidence in my ability to perform under such pressures as Project Runway imparts, however my goal was and is to maintain my perspective and point of view as a designer regardless of my final standing. I believe in my talent, in my unique perspective and the marketability of my product, as well as myself. Walking into the contest with a personal awareness as I did kept me grounded and focused on attaining my goals.
What are you most looking forward to about appearing on the show?
Exposure. I chose to apply and participate on the show because I was extremely aware that without such an effort, my business and passion could not sustain the high overhead and demanding production standards needed to maintain itself. I know I need help, I need mentorship within my approach to design and the industry. I also need financial support to start, maintain and grow my company into a healthy and profiting business that can support itself and me. To me, Project Runway was and is about gaining access/exposure to the resources and support any burgeoning fashion talent needs to be successful.
Where will you be watching this week’s premiere?
I am choosing not to watch at all. I went on the show not to be on television for myself, but for others.
Do you think it’s beneficial for Portland’s design scene to get such great national exposure?
I certainly think being one of four designers to be highlighted on Project Runway is worth noting. I believe Portland to be one of the few arteries of independent fashion in the nation. Choosing to live and grow within my design career here has enabled me the freedom to explore, make mistakes and refine my point of view and goals in an environment that is supportive and easy to access. Without the time I have spent here, I could not be who I am today and I am very grateful for this experience/time not only as a designer, but person. I think for any designer aiming to develop outside of the mainstream boundaries of the fashion industry, in a community that affords you the room to fall and get back up again, is worth noting.
How would you describe your MothLove designs for people who haven’t seen your work?
MothLove (right) is a sustainable sportswear line based on conceptual and minimalist art principles, with a nod to the bohemian and 1970’s. I create clothing meant to be worn and interpreted by its wearer. With details hindering on nuance, MothLove garments are the canvas to your every day sensibilities.
Where do you draw inspiration for your work?
I do a lot of research. Reading magazines, blogging, paying attention to fashion weeks and street style. I love exploring fine art and music and how the collective consciousness translates between all mediums.
Where can people buy your things?
Online or in store at Frances May on Southwest Washington and 11th Avenue in Portland. Online through MothLove.com.
Who are some of your favorite Portland area designers?
I’d mention one and have to mention them all. It’s a community thriving with talent and they all need our support.
What’s your take on Portland’s sense of style?
Portland is about layering, casual cool and modernity come functionality.
And what are some local shops you love to frequent the most?
Una, Stand Up Comedy, Sword + Fern, Frances May, Frank James, Odessa, Souchi, Local35…
Have you always been into fashion and design?
When I was three-years-old I refused to go outside of the house if my cable knit tights were ‘benty,’ and so grew the girl into the fashionista she was born to be.
Whose style do you most admire?
I admire those whom care not to care and explore fashion as self expression, but with an inert sense of style and class. Kate Moss, Chloe Sevigny, Alexa Chung, Diane Kruger, etc. And from the past, Lauren Hutton, Jane Birken, Diane Keaton and so on.
What can we most often find you wearing, both in real life and on the show?
Separates and Layers. I’m thin and regularly cold. I like to take on and off as I so choose. Neutral color palettes, always a sweater, drape vs. fit. I love proportion.
What’s your most prized fashion possession?
1940’s mint condition white mink coat layered in chevrons, my grandmother Gretchen’s wedding rings and custom army jacket, and my grandfathers bolo tie.
What is your must-have Portland fashion purchase right now?
I’ve been back six days!? I have no idea what is out there! Certainly a MothLove Moonseed Tank (right) at Frances May to beat the heat… I know I’ve got one on.
Project Runway 8 Season Premiere
Thursday, July 29 at 9 p.m. et/pt on Lifetime TV
www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway
If you like what you see on The Neat Sheet, please consider becoming our Facebook Fan, following us on Twitter and/or linking to us from your website or blog. We need your help to spread the word so we can keep it up!
