Genevieve Clifford is based in New York and a graduate of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She has worked under Shane Gabier of “Creatures of the Wind” and Mary Ping of “Slow and Steady Wins the Race” before beginning her own label. Genevieve Clifford clothing focuses on innovative cuts and imagery with an emphasis in quality construction and fabrics.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do. I have a high-end women’s label and also a t-shirt line. I am currently based in New York, graduated from SAIC and grew up in Michigan. My clothing focuses on innovative cuts and imagery with an emphasis in construction and luxury fabrics.
What are some recent, upcoming or current projects you are working on? I just launched my T-Shirt label CLFF! I take misogynistic imagery and collage women into new forms. Resulting in some provocative and eerie looking graphics.
What is one of the bigger challenges you and/or other designers are struggling with these days and how do you see it developing? Fast fashion. I do think it’s great that fashion is accessible to everyone, but there is no way to keep up with it. With minimums and cost of production it is hard to keep items at a price that many people would like to spend. I am constantly struggling with the idea of making mainstream items or keeping the integrity of my design practice, which ends up making everything more expensive.
How did your interest in art or fashion begin? I was always unsatisfied by the way things fit me. So I ended up tailoring and altering everything I wore. I enjoyed bringing the clothing ideas to life and learning how to construct a garment. My parents are musicians, so I was constantly surrounded by costumes and art. I also was a very serious ballerina before I decided to attend SAIC and pursue fashion as a career.
#1 fashion don’t? A Jeffrey Campbell Lita.
How has living in New York affected your practice? Working in the fashion industry has definitely changed my practice. I have learned so much about the business of fashion. In some ways it is very stifling to the creative process and product—in other ways it can help you survive.
What is your snack/beverage of choice when working in your studio? Kombucha and water.
What are you really excited about right now? Transformation and using one item to make several items. More bang for your buck right?
What are you listening to right now? Casey Veggies – Life Changes
Can you share one of the best or worst reactions you have gotten as a result of your work? I recently made a few custom fit leather motorcycle jackets for a couple of my friends. I take great pride in making things fit beautifully and nothing makes me happier than to see them wearing the jackets. They love them and they receive many inquiries and compliments. It’s a curious sensation to know someone feels and looks great in something you made.
What is your ideal studio situation/workspace? I have a really amazing studio right now that I share with my friend Brad (BCALLA) and Fred. Right now the space is very integrated—it would be incredible to have more space to curate my own area. That being said—it is WAY better than my living room.
