What does it take to become hip-hop and streetwear's next go-to designer? For starters, it helps to have worked with Givenchy, Kanye West, and Virgil Abloh. Also, it takes a keen eye for design, and creating garments that aren't like anything else on the market. Hip-hop and streetwear have always been about flipping what's culturally available and relevant. For London designer Sam McWilliams—the man behind Sam MC London—it's soccer kits, Japanese streetwear, and Hawaiian prints. At first, this appears to be a head-scratching combination, but the more you listen to the designer explain himself, the more practical it becomes.
In a recent interview with Logo, the graphic designer turned fashion designer, who recently took over his sister's label Courtney Mc London for fall/winter 2013, explains his "Sharp Teeth" collection and why it's about to change the unisex clothing game. "The idea is never forced – it comes instinctively, and I just go with it." McWilliams told Logo, "That’s why I like designing for a unisex customer; you have to know that your girlfriend can steal your clothes and look amazing."
And if you don't think you're going to wear shorts this upcoming winter, McWilliams has another thing coming for you. "I felt shorts were a ‘must’ for winter! For those who don’t understand, simply ‘man up…or wear them over jeans." McWilliams challenged, "I've always been a fan of layering."
But really, what we all want to know: What's it like to work with Kanye West? McWilliams assisted Mr. West on his first runway show. "That was the moment I knew I was making the right choice in following a career in fashion." McWilliams said, "It was such an amazing experience. That collection was crazy. It was actually really inspiring working around him, he was so dedicated to that collection – his work ethic was like nothing I had every seen before."
Click here to read the rest of the interview and see more of the upcoming collection. We're sure you'll hear more from this guy in the future.
[via Logo]
