INTRODUCING: BARRETT WALTER

Louisiana native Barrett Walter Hutchinson first developed his womenswear background in New York City before moving to Los Angeles in 2012. While completing stints at Diane von Furstenberg, Catherine Malandrino, and red carpet brand Lorena Sarbu, his deep appreciation for embellishment and thoughtful detail was solidified. Translating these influences into menswear, Hutchinson launched his namesake label in 2016 to create special yet wearable pieces that would stand out within a basic wardrobe. The brand reveres clothing as an investment in both the product itself and local community, proudly being made in Los Angeles. Read on as Hutchinson discusses breaking in the menswear industry, finding inspirations in the new generation of designers, and bringing more fantasy to menswear.

How long have you been in this industry, and when did you know it was time to launch your own brand?

I’ve been working in the fashion industry for five years – one year in New York and four years in Los Angeles. Having my own brand is something I have thought about for a very long time, and early last year is when I decided to take the plunge. I felt like I had a good enough understanding of the industry and how it works to step out on my own. I feel I have something to say in menswear and I have to give it a go.

You have worked next to accomplished womenswear designers. How has this experience translated into your collection?

My love for fashion initially began with the world of eveningwear, so working for Lorena Sarbu has definitely had the greatest influence on my work. Working as an eveningwear designer, it is your job to create fantasy, so I really got to explore that side of my creativity. I want to bring more fantasy to menswear.

What are some key elements and techniques you have incorporated in your collection? Do you have a signature already?

I always search for really unique and interesting textiles. As a consumer, thoughtful detail always sells me on a piece – whether it is the fabrication construction etc. So, that’s always something I try to incorporate into my collection. I’m not sure that I have a signature yet, but I’m trying to fill the void of what I’ve come to call “specialty staple.” I didn’t set out to create a line of basics. I’m creating pieces that are more special than your basic wardrobe piece, but wearable enough that you get your mileage out of it.

I believe your work is not really gender specific. How do you feel about genderless fashion?

I’m not necessarily trying to make my collections gender ambiguous, but I do like that it appeals to women as well. I think that’s the beauty of fashion. Different people are attracted to different elements whether that is the color or the fabric or the shape, etc. It’s all about personal expression.

Your garments are produced in Los Angeles. What are the challenges of keeping the production locally?

I can’t honestly say I’ve had many challenges from local production. I love being ten minutes away from where my pieces are being made. It makes the logistics so much easier. Before you do production locally, one thing you know getting into it is that it will cost more than having production done overseas. But, I love my home of Los Angeles, and I think it’s a really beautiful thing to have everything made here. I also think people are becoming way more aware of where their clothing is being made and the ethics behind clothing production.

How many collections are you launching in 2017? How are you overcoming the challenge of constantly staying creative and innovative?

I’ll be launching two collections this year – Fall/Winter 2017 and Spring/Summer 2018. I think the key to constantly staying creative is to always be looking for sources of inspiration. My mind never stops – whether it is films, stories, places, nature, etc. I’m always looking for something that sparks an idea. For instance, my upcoming Fall/Winter 2017 collection was inspired by a book I read on the history of Big Sur – the most beautiful place I’ve ever been to. It helps me a lot if the source of inspiration is something that’s already dear to my heart. It can’t be contrived.

What practices are important to you as a new designer?

It’s very important for me to stay up to date on what is happening in the industry. I never want to be a “trendy” brand, but I do think it’s necessary to be aware of what is happening now. I love viewing all of the shows every season, and also being up to date on the news in the industry. I believe you should be extremely educated on every aspect of whatever industry you choose to work in. I also love going into stores periodically and just seeing what product is on the floor. You can never be too aware.

Who do you find the most inspirational designers of our generation? Are you equally inspired by mens- and womenswear designers?

I am absolutely inspired by both men’s and women’s designers. In terms of pure inspiration, I think Alexander McQueen was on a level of his own. I also think the work that Sarah Burton has done there is incredible. I’m also incredibly inspired by my fellow LA designers at Rodarte. I have been following them since day one, and they continue to create incredible collections season after season. With regards to menswear, I find myself constantly inspired by Thom Browne and Acne. I think both of these houses are extremely innovative, and I feel they’ve done a lot for evolving menswear.

What are you currently working on, and what are your future plans?

I am currently wrapping up Fall/Winter 2017, which will be out within the next month. I’m already in the early stages of creating Spring/Summer 2018, so once Fall/Winter rolls out, it’s full steam ahead on the next collection!

www.barrettwalter.com
Images © Barrett Walter