Ann Yee: Her Fashion Meets Filmmaking

As part of a continuing series of interviews with artists I’ve collaborated with, I am introducing you to Ann Yee – an up and coming fashion designer working out of Manhattan.  February 15, 2010 marks the Launch of her Video Look Book for the Fall/Winter 2010 Collection.  As producer of the Look Book, I gained new respect for Ann and her design process.

What inspired your Fall/Winter 2010 collection?
Transcendence was a main theme in my collection. I wanted the pieces to be versatile and have the ability to transcend trends. Draping and dramatic angles are always key details in my designs so these themes definitely progressed into A/W10, making each style unique in its own way.

The initial color palette was inspired by one of Cy Twombly’s pieces. I was immediately attracted to his rich autumnal hues, with accents of pop colors, yet still maintaining a certain subtlety.

photo: Ann Yee with Look Book Producer Colleen Sturtevant

How do you feel about being a designer in New York City?
I feel very lucky about it; I’m extremely grateful that I have such an amazing landscape I can draw inspiration from everyday -whether it be from the people or architecture or even the sounds of the city. It’s cool I can call it home.

Are you planning your next collection?
Not yet! Still trying to finish off this one….the launch is Monday night! But I do need to start thinking about a concept….

When you are designing, what gets you motivated?  Things you see, certain music, or art?
Music plays a huge roll in my design process….if i put the right album or song on loop, I can go on for hours at a time, pretty amazing. I definitely need some good background music when it comes to working. I can never work in silence…nothing will hit the paper….

Have you ever been any place in the world that inspired you (Besides New York) in your work?
Hong Kong is always an inspiring place for me – it’s where my parents spent their years before immigrating to the US so I go back often. Fashion there is fun and whimsical, but has this undeniable sophistication. People have a great sense of proportion and aren’t afraid to mix and match the unexpected; it’s refreshing to see it.

You have quite an eye for detail in your designs…. did that come naturally or is it learned?
A little of both. I definitely learned to be detail oriented in design school and I continue to combine those techniques with new ideas I come up with on my own.

Where are you from originally, and when and how did you come to know designing was your calling?
I’m from South Lyon, Michigan – a suburb of Detroit. I always had an interest in designing…it started when I used to take tissues and cut them into dress patterns for my Barbies. The idea of being a fashion designer crossed my mind in middle school, but it didn’t seem attainable until late high school after I visited a design school.

Describe a typical day for Ann Yee.
I wake up and go to my day job where I design knitwear, and then I might meet a friend for dinner or a show if i don’t go home…i usually end up working for the rest of the night on my own collection at home and am in bed by 3ish….

How was shooting the Video Look Book?
AWESOME! It was such a good time and I’m extremely lucky to have had such a great team working on it with me. I learned a lot and absolutely have a new found respect for the art of film-making.

The video look book launch event takes place February 15, 2010 at the Tribeca Grand Hotel in New York City.  You can view more of Ann’s work at annyeecollection.com