Tell us a little about the original inspiration behind Julia Heuer and how you keep that alive from season to season.
My journey began at the Academy of Fine Arts, where I specialized in textile design. I was deeply captivated by the intricate techniques and the inherent beauty of textiles themselves, which are, in my view, an often under appreciated art form. My original mission was to highlight the artistry embedded within the fabric of garments. With every collection, when the mix of prints, texture and shape come together, the beauty of textiles continues to surprise and inspire me, season after season.
We really appreciate your work and are so excited to carry these special designs that feel like works of art. How did you start working with this pleating technique? Do you have any personal favorite designs you’ve worked on or are currently working on?
I first encountered the Shibori technique during an exchange year at Denmark's Design School. This method resonated deeply with my creative process and has since become a cornerstone of my work.
My favorite design at the moment is the pleated, furry texture we developed for this upcoming Autumn/Winter season. It’s a cut-lasse fabric that we printed and then pleated, creating a uniquely tactile and playful design. I am very excited about this development—it's truly a standout piece in our collection.
Are there any specific colors, shapes, materials you personally and/or Julia Heuer as a brand have felt drawn towards lately?
Indeed, we’ve been particularly drawn to a silver, shimmering fabric recently. Once printed and pleated, it takes on an extraordinary character. This material has become something of an obsession for me and my team in recent weeks.
What are the people, places or things you consistently go back to for inspiration?
I’ve collected a vast and eclectic library of inspirations—books, photographs, paintings, drawings, flower scans, ancient textiles, and more. I find endless fascination in revisiting these resources, as they consistently hold fresh insights and ideas. Often, my inspiration begins with ancient textiles, which I reinterpret through a contemporary lens, creating a dialogue between the past and present.
What's on the stereo in the Julia Heuer studio right now?
Our studio has been tuned into two particular radio stations lately: IDA Radio, an independent station from Tallinn, Estonia, run by friends of mine, and NTS Radio.
What have you been reading this summer? I've been reading a book that a friend recommended to me called The Courage to Be Disliked. It's an interesting philosophical dialogue exploring Adlerian psychology, focusing on themes like choice and personal empowerment. I highly recommend it!!
Favorite meal to cook for friends? To be honest, I'm not much of a cook myself, but I do love good food. My ideal situation is having friends who love to cook take over the menu, while I focus on being a good host, making sure everyone is comfortable and has everything they need. It’s a collaborative effort that makes for the perfect evening.
Do you have an official mantra? (Or an unofficial one?) Hhmm, not really. But I often remind myself that you need to believe in yourself and in what you do. Not always easy but the most important!
Finally, what do you hope for Julia Heuer as a brand and design studio in the coming years? Any specific visions or goals? My hope is that the growing appreciation for craftsmanship and independent brands continues to flourish, allowing us to maintain our independence and focus on handcrafted garments. It’s challenging to advocate for and promote artisanal work, but I’m optimistic that this perspective is gaining traction and is being recognized as the new luxury.
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