Artful Living and Mall of America invite you to this year’s Curated Style Virtual Panel: The Future of Fashion. On October 13, join us for a discussion of all things fashion, including what it’s like to be a designer during the time of the coronavirus outbreak, what the future of the runway holds and more. This virtual event will be moderated by Artful Living Editor-in-Chief Kate Nelson and will feature panelists including fashionista extraordinaire Laura Schara as well as Project Runway alumni Mondo Guerra, Korto Momolu and Christopher Straub.
Photography provided by Mall of America
Curated Style Virtual Panel: The Future of Fashion
Tuesday, October 13 | 7 p.m.
Register today
Sign up for this exciting event now and get a sneak peek of what to expect with our preview Q+A with Christopher Straub below.
An Exclusive Q+A with Minnesota Designer Christopher Straub
Photography provided by Christopher Straub
Christopher Straub is a Minnesota-based self-taught designer and was crowned fan favorite during season six of Project Runway. His collections include apparel, handbags and other accessories, all of which reflect an aesthetic based in nature. Here, Straub shares where he thinks the fashion industry is headed, what inspires him and more.
What brought you into the world of fashion?
For me, it was all about looking at the body as a canvas on which to create. I love to explore texture and proportion, and how it relates to the human form.
What inspires you?
I am endlessly inspired by the wonders of nature. Something as small as an insect or as grand as the ocean will spark inspiration.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
I would describe my aesthetic as bold and somewhat risky, but with a hint of reality. I like to tie together the shape and fit of whatever I’m creating to what is currently happening in fashion and put my twist on it.
What does your process look like?
I start with inspiration and move right into sketching. After that, I source ready-made fabrics and start to develop my own. During the creation of the actual garments, I try to explore beyond my initial sketches to see if I can take it further. It’s fun to put together a fully realized presentation with the show’s order, model selection, styling and accessories.
Where do you think the fashion industry goes from here?
Oh, this is an interesting question. I could see it going in both directions. The current work-from-home culture may give us even more casual options or there may be a movement of resistance where more formal dressing will occur. As home offices and canceled events are increasing, I have already seen the need for custom clothing decrease. What are the long-term effects? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
