The Custom Experience: A Tailored Affair

Teresa H.
May 15, 2016
3 min read

Thursday, May 5th, Four Charlotte designers came together for a collaborative, showcasing event. The Custom Experience was a fresh combination of artistry, networking, and fashion- as the latest collections from Tygerian Lace, The House of LeMond, AwQuard- Julian Grant, and Humble Connor were revealed. The venue was an intimate suite in AvidXchange (aka NC Music Factory); but the size of the room complimented the designs- as it provided the opportunity to have a closer look at some of the details which are sometimes missed in your typical runway show. As guests mixed and mingled, models from each collection quietly entered the room and claimed an area- where they would then pose, and allow both onlookers and photographers to view and take pictures.

Humble Connor was first in the line up. Three models sported distinguishable looks, bringing to mind an edgy-60’s-rock-chic aesthetic. Rather than the traditional pose, the three ladies formed something that looked more like a theatrical snapshot. Two stood on an elevated platform, arms to their sides, looking straight ahead- while one sat/slouched in the middle. An empty wine glass in one hand, and a sprawled-out cluster of undisclosed white ‘pills’ in the other. The designer disclosed that the concept behind her collection was symbolic to bring awareness to anxiety and depression.

“Why is it normal to call off from work when you’re physically not feeling well but not so norm when you’re mentally sick? Both…take a drastic toll on your body and your performance…Stop with the double standard. Stop ignoring your emotions and let’s find a better solution than drugs.”

I loved the fact that Humble Connor created a message with her collection, and made you think about something much deeper than just the garments themselves (although I couldn’t help but think about how that sheer, patterned frock was something I would definitely put in my closet).

Next was the host designer of the night, Tygerian Lace, who presented five looks in her collection. I found each piece to be classy and sophisticated with just a pinch of sexy. Black and white was the color theme-providing simplicity and elegance. The brand was officially launched in 2015, and it’s clear that Tygerian Lace has a strong brand identity and knows just who she is designing for- the fashionably conscious woman that is both confident and driven. I definitely look forward to seeing more from this designer.

After reading an article about The House of LeMond, and it’s founder LeMond Hart, I knew that he would be a local designer to watch. One thing that I believe sets his brand apart is the way he molds together prints, colors, and fabrics. An example of this would be one of his casual looks, where the model donned a green and brown printed shirt, chocolate-colored velvet bowtie, cream colored jacket and short set, and gold and black striped shoes. LeMond's looks are bold and eye catching, while also cool and suave.

Another notable presence at The Custom Experience was Julian Grant (AwQuard). Julian takes the average garment and gives it all new life with custom paintings. Much of the work he displayed appeared to be heavily influenced by pop art (as evidenced by the Andy Warhol portrait that sat in front of his display table). Julian wowed attendees by doing a live garment painting during the event.

The Custom Experience was an awesome showcase that I feel would be a great platform for not only local designers, but also artists to display their talents and new work. I hope the event continues to feature Charlotte’s best and brightest.