“I think good design is a mix of creativity, and forecasting. Not JUST creativity.”

Short background of designer and brand

I went to school for Fashion, Graphic Design and Fine art… But of course didn’t finish. I am impatient that way. I’m now an Art Director/Graphic Designer, I work with a lot of labels in Los Angeles (most recently Blood is the New Black and Archive Agency). This is where I’m at as a designer… I just launched Collection1 of Dark Matter in August. But now putting forth more effort & care into it. It has become my number one priority.

-How did you come to establish the label?

Once the primary collection was finished, I put everything online and contacted all my friends in the Fashion Industry… There was great response, but I am still working on getting the Dark Matter name out there and into more stores. My strategy is still in the works but I’m not one to stop establishing Dark Matter. I plan on re-defining the label again and again.

-What is the concept of the brand?

It is really simple… I want to make Jewelry to accompany labels, designers & styles that I love. Some pieces area bit more conceptual than the rest of the collection but all together dark & sophisticated. There are some pieces you can wear with a black dress or an old white shirt male or female and the piece will remain just as striking… And then there are some charms that are just for someone like me. Simple design modern material… Nothing too flashy.

-Could you explain about first collection sold at Not Just a Label Shop curated by Amanda Lepore?

Not Just A Label has gotten me a lot of press. I don’t know if they filter their designers or what, but The labels are brilliant. With that being said… I was excited to have her select my line to be sold in her NJAL selection. My collection is dark and chic. I’m hoping that is the reason she picked my jewelry.

-How would you describe your own style?

I am not too exciting with my personal wardrobe. I wear Jeans. Button up shirt. Black Converse with Black Laces. A nice black watch. V&R Antidote, and have a lot of tattoos. That’s my style and it remans the same (usually).

I’m much more excited when I see a very stylish person in YSL, Alexander McQueen, or Margiela paired with a piece from Dark Matter… It’s better than my style and I helped influence their look for the day.

-What are the difficulties faced being a designer today?

You really have to work harder and faster now… 10 years ago, most people didn’t have all the resources they have now. Social Networking gets your name and images out there 10,000 times faster without the need for a publicist… but also, everyone’s style changes so much faster too. You have to be smart and with it and keep up with the race and to lead. I think good design is a mix of creativity, and forecasting. Not JUST creativity. A designer has to move faster within all aspects of their business because they’ve got a lot of people viewing their line (online), now more than ever. But I love it, the race.

-How would you describe your customer?

My customer… From what I’ve gathered, was always a little offbeat. When they were younger… Punk, Goth, Mod. Something like that, and now matured and seasoned in Art, Design, Style & Music… they can and will spend their money on Margiela, Dior Homme or YSL. Much like myself, however I was always inspired by YSL, John Galliano, Gaultier, and Alexander McQueen as a teen. I wasn’t really sure where my first collection would lead, but it’s going in a great direction.

-What are the source of inspiration in your design?

Bands I have loved forever always inspire me…Christian Death, Portishead, Siouxsie, the Misfits…
And in fashion, right now… I’m loving the era of Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista and Naomi Campbell in the early 90’s… At this point, it’s classic.

-Do you view fashion design as a means of expressing yourself?

Without a doubt. Yes.

-What made you want to become designer?

I came from the suburbs outside of Los Angeles and it was a bit conservative. When I was 4 years old I remember seeing a girl with a blue mohawk and can still remember the effect it had on my mind. I couldn’t stop thinking about it…I think it stems from that moment. Then in High School, I would buy Fashion Magazines from London & Japan and want to work within that realm of designers.

-Is there any designers or person that had a strong influence of your work?

Everyone I mentioned so far… those are my favorite designers and who i’ve looked up to as a kid… I can’t pinpoint how they influence me now though…

-How do you see the your brand developing over the next couple of years?

I definitely want to keep taking my label to the next level. I will be expanding soon, but my mind always works so fast I could not tell you exactly where… I will fill you in as soon as I have my next samples out though.

Interview & Text:Masaki Takida