May 1

May 1 Sophie Andes Gascon

I first found Sophie Andes Gascon a few years ago through LRC, a salon in New York City. I was told that she makes unique garments that are fun to feel, wise to wear and tantalizing to touch….smart and fun, just like the designer herself. I was told right.

When did you start making clothes? How old were you then and how old are you now?
I started making clothes when I was in high school. I asked for a sewing machine one year for Christmas and my dad taught me how to use it. I remember making things for my mom’s friends who were all so supportive even though everything they bought from me was literally held by a single thread and had seams ripping and paint smeared all over it….love them!

Where did you grow up? How long have you been in New York?
I was born in Canada but shortly after moved to Manaus, Brazil until I was six and then grew up inBethesda just outside DC. I have been in New York for 6 years I think, living in Fort Greene.

What does your studio space look like, feel like, sounds like, smell like?
My studio is in my home, it is my bedroom to be exact. It’s very hot, big but not big enough, organized but dusty, sounds like Patsy Cline..smells like my landlords dinner.

What is the first thing you ever made in your life?
A rabbit face out of a paper plate with cotton balls and paint

What is the last thing you ever made in your life?
I actually just finished a dress for my friend Claire for her friend’s wedding

Are you formally trained in clothing design?
Yes I attended Pratt Institute under the leadership some great professors ;)

In term of design, what influences your decision making process the most?
Everything influences my process but my starting point and what ends up influencing the direction of a wave of choices is fabric and textures. I spend a lot of time customizing all of my fabrics so they feel soft, worn in. Exploring embellishments and experimenting with surface treatments is usually where I begin my process, my favorite part - and it is something that I can do with my hands before any sort of machine gets involved.

Are you more productive in the morning or at night?
I’m a morning person but I can usually only work at night as I have a full time design job outside of my own work.

What is your favorite fabric at the moment? Is it stretchy? Shiny? Sparkly? Simple? Complex?
Anything sheer, old floral aprons..silk scarves.