Gretchen Jones may be based in Brooklyn, but this seasoned pro (she did, after all, win season 8 of Project Runway, nbd) is a real cowgirl at heart. Originally from Colorado, Jones draws inspiration from her “earthy Americana” roots, 1970s romanticism and the landscapes of her former western backdrop. Her latest collection showcases those classic American sensibilities, with western prints, flowy silhouettes and topped off with big, floppy hats. We caught up with talented designer and talked background, eco-design, and exciting upcoming things…
two+seven: Give us a little background: how did you get into fashion design?
Gretchen Jones: My grandmother was a seamstress, my mother also sewed a lot when I was a little girl, so I learned very quickly within my family of makers. Instead of KoolAide stands, I made little pocket purses and sold them for $1. I played window display with my Barbies instead of house and I got in trouble in class for using my notebooks as portfolios instead of for homework.
I suppose I’m one of those lucky people who just knew deep down what I was meant to do. Growing up rurally made hands-on craftsmanship accessible and a part of life. Making my own clothes was not out of this world and my artistic interests just kept refining into fashion design…I just followed my heart.
2+7: You design jewelry in addition to clothing. Does your apparel ever influence your jewelry, or vice versa?
GJ: Absolutely. I design the jewelry to compliment the clothes. Im taking a few seasons off of jewelry while I focus on a few other opportunities, like for S/S 2013, Ive been given the opportunity to create my own custom shoes to accompany the collection. It’s important for me to explore all the categories I can, as I aim to integrate jewelry, shoes, accessories into the main label. But that all starts with the clothes. Designing garments is my first love and absolutely informs the other elements and facets. It’s all about creating the world according to GJ. My goal is to create a lifestyle brand that can be bought into in a myriad of ways.
Gretchen’s favorite style, from her FW12 collection
2+7: We’ve been hearing a lot about eco-friendly, green design lately. Tell us about your focus on social and environmental consciousness.
GJ: Well I want to start off with saying I am, and always have been focused on fashion first. I believe being a strong brand has to first start off with great product. As I create each collection I integrate sustainable practices where I can afford to. Being ethically minded comes at a cost [in many ways] and can box you out of being affordable. I goal to integrate materials with environmental consciousness where I can without sacrificing on design.
Economically speaking, I aim to produce domestically; supporting my community is very important to me. But I also aim to create work worth investing in, in order for me to sustain myself I have to have a customer base willing to invest in me and my business. It’s a cycle that must involve all facets of the industry…from design, to production, to sales. We all have to support one another in order to to support ourselves; environmentally and financially.
2+7: As the season 8 winner of Project Runway, has this experience helped/hindered your career in any way?
GJ: It helped me afford myself the opportunity to continue to invest in my business, but it’s still up to me to create work strong enough to have a place in the market. I’m grateful for winning because I needed the finances to keep pushing forward. And that was my goal while participating…to keep reaching for my dreams with the tools and finances one needs to go for it.
Sharon Van Etten in GJ
Esperanza Spalding in GJ
Esperanza Spalding in GJ
Sharon Van Etten in GJ
2+7: What’s next?
GJ: I just wrapped my shoot for S/S 2013. The new collection is defintely my best to date and my most accessible. Im working on my NYFW plans, one of which is a FNO party at Bird BK, where I created a custom dress exclusively for their stores. I’ll be showing at the GenArt Fresh Faces show on September 9th. Additionally, I’ve confirmed my participation in Vancouver BC’s Eco Fashion Week in late September. And I’ll be revealing my first custom shoe that was designed for S/S 2013 with the help of www.shoesofprey.com.
Want more?
Twitter @Gretchen_Jones
Instagram @gretchen_jones
Pinterest @gretchenjonesny
2 comments
Gregory Izzo says:
Aug 23, 2012
Love her.
Kate Sullivan-Bewley says:
Aug 24, 2012
I love her designs and feel she could be our next “Ralph Lauren” eco- friendly designer. A great head on her shoulders and would be a great asset to any community she chooses to reside in. Wish she were in my neighborhood!!