You probably only remember two things from Season Two of Bravo's The Fashion Show: The Ultimate Collection; the hilarious incoherent ramblings of finalist Calvin Tran & the zen like optimism of the season's winner, Jeffrey Williams.
Williams is a Seattle native with 11 brothers and sisters. Since arriving in New York in 2004, he's graduated from F.I.T., studied at Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy, worked with Alexander Wang, Peter Som, stylist Patti Wilson and now he beat out 12 other contestants to win the title of creator of The Ultimate Collection. It seems like there's nothing he can't do...
What has life been like for you since the finale of The Fashion Show?It's been an amazing experience! People recognize me from the show and let me know their looking forward to my collection coming out and supporting my bright future in this industry.
What do you feel sets you apart from other fashion designers?
The wonderful part of being a designer is you get to create many stories; it is the utter joy of living life. Also the balance of femininity, masculinity, modern beauty and the constant search of how to bring people together through fabric and all senses.
What are the top 5 items you think every woman should have in her wardrobe?
1. Jeffrey Williams clothing
2. Red Lipstick
3. Flowing kaftan
4. A bag of confidence
5. More Jeffrey Williams clothing & a pair of mules. There's nothing sexier than a woman's heel in a pair of mules.
What's your advice for aspiring designers?
Never give up. If you believe your destined for greatness your time will come to shine. Until then learn as much as possible in your craft and work your ass off.
What's your favorite charity or charitable organization?
I lost my mother from breast cancer in 2004 so any charity that supports women going
through breast cancer and the children that get left behind from this disease.Too many times people only focus on the patient and not the children involved watching their mother suffer, and sometimes even losing a mother.I was one of those children, I want to help ease their pain if I can.
Where do you draw inspiration?
I tend to get inspired by indigenous cultures, my travels (I recently visited India... wow talk about being inspired) and the the process of thinking of what my customer needs and would wear in different scenario's, weather imaginary or just walking down the street.
What would you like the world to know about you?
I am a unique person with a very large appetite for life, love, laughter and all things that bring happiness.I see things differently than others and I want to bring the love and beauty that I feel and see to the world.
Who are your favorite designers/ fashion inspirations?
Some of my favorite designers are Lee Alexander, Alber Elbaz, John Galliano, Paul Poiret, Yves Saint Luraunt, Azzedine Alaia, Tom Ford and Victoria Beckham to name a few. I’m still so inspired by my Professor and muse, Benedetta Barzini from when I lived and studied in Italy. I always wished I could have worked and learned from such great beings as Diana Vreeland, Richard Avedon, Salvador Dali and the list goes on.I'm also obsessed with the 70's!! I wish I lived during the 70's!
What's next for Jeffrey Williams?
Being even more international through my work and pushing myself ever closer to my dreams through my hard working actions.
When did you know you were destined to be a fashion designer & what brought on that revelation?
My mother always praised my talents and reminded me my art is so natural and pure. She
stressed that with hard work you can do and be anything you dream of, she told me I was destined for greatness at a very little boy and I believe this and continue to strive for greatness
What does Bliss mean to you?
Bliss for me is being with the ones I love, my art, traveling internationally, sharing laughs, being in touch with my inner being, projecting positivity and love.
How can we keep up with all things that are going on with you?
I would love for you to add the links below with the article so that the readers can keep in touch, follow my magical journey and have the opportunity to contact me directly!!
That's All for Now.
Thanks for tuning in.
Until Next Time...
Keep Adding Bliss!
Michelle