i-D favourite Mitzi Lorenz is the renowned stylist and fashion designer whose debut womenswear collection shows-off the female form in all its shapely glory.
Mitzi Lorenz is perhaps best known as beloved friend of stylist Ray Petri and co-founder of the iconic ‘Buffalo’ style, the groundbreaking combination of street trends and high-fashion. From the start of Petri’s career to his untimely death in 1989, Lorenz stood by his side as a rebellious and forward-thinking stylist, working on shoots for The Face, Arena Homme + and i-D, where she collaborated with photographer Mark Lebon. Now, as a trained corsetiere, Mitzi has turned her attention to design, with plans to unveil her debut spring/summer 12 collection at Somerset House at London Fashion Week in September. The range combines beautiful fabrics with well-fitting shapes, a strong collection that promises sophistication with a hint of naughtiness. With the traditional corset making its presence felt throughout, prepare to be seduced. i-D Online caught up with Lorenz to find out more.
How would you describe your design aesthetic? Very feminine, all about complementing the woman’s shape and creating a curving silhouette.
What were the ideas and inspirations behind your S/S 12 collection? 18th century wayward girls and wicked women.
What kind of woman do you design for? Slightly mischievous, sophisticated and very sexy.
Are there any garments from the collection that particularly stand out to you? They all synchronise.
What’s your favourite part of the design process? I love the whole process from scribbling down an initial idea to creating patterns to the finished clothes. But the most exciting part is trying the sample on for the first time, looking in the mirror and seeing that you’ve got it right.
How did you find the transition from stylist to designer? It felt like a natural progression. They are very similar for me in terms of visual ideas, different ways of expressing art. Though design is more craft and styling more journalistic.
How do you think your personal style has evolved since the Buffalo era? The spirit is always Buffalo, just more refined.
What’s your biggest hope for the future? To build up my company and to keep on producing great work that people love.
