PROVOKE

verb

To stir up purposely; provide a needed stimulus

/ LUCY HARDCASTLE / “It is about a lack of tactility and disconnection from reality in how we experience culture.” PITCH - PRESENT.

/ Autumn Playlist / Cereal Magazine.

/ Ernest Hemingway, The Art of Fiction No. 21 / "The room, however, for all the disorder sensed at first sight, indicates on inspection an owner who is basically neat but cannot bear to throw anything away—especially if sentimental value is attached." The Paris Review.

/ Five Fantastic Surrealist Films To Watch Now / "Its irreverent, sensual playfulness, full of feverishly bizarre antics, is a wonderful outpouring from his surrealist spirit, which remains to be celebrated." AnOther.

/ Perfectly Designed and Extravagantly Nice Things / "Signature whitewashed bisque with a long, lean Brancusian shape, at once age-old and of the moment." The New York Times.

Image.

Hometown?

Favorite spot in the Twin Cities?
Either Milwaukee Avenue in Seward, or the Schmidt Brewery in West 7th.

Coffee, tea, or cocktail (and how do you take it)?
Cocktail: The Bloody Mary at Tattersall.

In a few words, explain your style:
Exaggerated silhouettes; slightly messy.

Any daily rituals?
I wash my face with Binu Binu Facial Soap twice daily and drink lots of water. I also use apple cider vinegar for everything.

One piece of advice you’ve taken to heart:
Never overdress for an occasion.

WISHLIST:
Diemme Fontesi Linton; Studio Nicholson Cappa Top; Mari Guidicelli Gavea Loafers; Studio Nicholson Hopper Coat; Nomia Slit Back Duster; NOMIA Snap Front Jacket; Shaina Mote Ori Pant; Stutterheim Raincoat (navy); Rachel Comey Thessaly.

Which is your favorite? 
I love the Mari Guidicelli Gavea Loafers. I love the shape of the wooden heels on these. They stand out, but still look timeless. 

Shop Andi's Full Wishlist Here.

1 / NOMIA, Zip Front Dress : The ubiquitous little black dress is reimagined with the Zip Front Dress' unique lines and elegant slit on each side.

2 / Maison Kitsune, Akiko Pant : Our favorite trouser becomes extra-tailored with the Akiko Pant, cropped and crafted with gathered pleats and a cool tab closer around the waist.

3 / Won Hundred, Sharla Shirt : This textured white button up has a surprising twist: Sharla's relaxed fit features a lovely vent detail in the back.

4 / Rachel Comey, Tilly Oxford : Designed with a stacked wooden heel and cream-colored + tonal laces, the Tilly is a new spin on the classic Oxford.

5 / Trademark, Donegal Robe Coat : Your silhouette is transformed in the Donegal Robe Coat’s 100% silk lining, deep v-neckline and single button closure.

6 / Trademark, Lattice Trim Silk Turtleneck  : Innovation meets traditional winter staple with Lattice Trim Silk Turtleneck in 100% silk and lattice ruffle trim on the hem, cuff and neck.

PROVOKE

verb

To stir up purposely; provide a needed stimulus

/ Take Me to the Burger King Spa / “When brands, slogans, and logos are so braided into your consciousness, they'll take on an emotional valence. Nostalgia is the engine of desire.” The Paris Review.

/ Finding a Bit of Rio in New York City With Designer and Model Mari Giudicelli / "They’re a staple, like hot dogs are here in the U.S." Vogue.

/ Rebecca Horn: A Stimulating Body of Works / "Extensions of the body have remained a prevalent theme in Horn's work ever since, each creating an intimate separation between the performer and their world." AnOther

/ The Self on Display / "Women should be on pedestals. Like art. Sometimes. Or look like they've stepped out of a portrait." Vestoj. 

/ Brutalism Is Back / "Brutalism was an attempt to create an architectural ethic, rather than an aesthetic. It had less to do with materials and more to do with honesty: an uncompromising desire to tell it like it is, architecturally speaking. The New York Times.

Image.

What is your background? Is it specifically in fashion design?
Design is actually my second degree from Parsons. Before that I went to Bryn Mawr for undergrad where I studied economics, art history and women's studies and worked at Holly Solomon's gallery before going back to school.

What keeps you stable during the chaos of your work?
Netflix and Hulu.

What people/places/things do you find yourself consistently going back to for inspiration?
The 80s and 90s in terms of not only fashion, but music and pop culture. I love old Pierre Cardin and Claude Montana, as well as old Bally and Benetton. With music I especially like anything new wave and dream pop. As for movies, I love Heathers, Working Girl, City of Lost Children and Reality Bites. I guess in general I turn to things with a bit of glamour combined with surrealism, as well as Indi vibes. It's what I know and grew up with. Then, I top it with a minimalist sensibility.

Do you feel there is a specific piece that is iconic within your AW16 line? Maybe one that you feel most inspired by, or simply your favorite?
I love the ruffle neck blouse. To me it briefly summarizes the collection — a bit romantic with the ruffle, a bit sport with the raglan sleeve and the cotton/nylon and in the end, its own complete thought. 

When designing do you enjoy collaboration or are you more of an independent artist?
I like to come up with the concept and direction on my own; it's what separates myself as a designer. But I love asking the opinions of several friends whose taste and perspective I respect. It's always insightful.

If you weren’t a designer, what other occupation could you see yourself in?Academia

Current book you’re reading, or current song or album you’ve been listening to?
Goddesses In Everywoman by Jean Shinoda Bolen.

What’s your life mantra?
No regrets.

Shop The Suzanne Rae Collection Here.