Designer Spotlight: SAINTCHiC

With style, subtlety can make a major statement.  Gingie Aujeanne McLeod, creator and designer of SAINTCHiC shows us how to standout, while keeping it simple in neutral colors and modest materials with her eco-chic line.  The silhouette is the statement in these pieces with soft, slouchy, sustainable fabrics that create a cool and casual shape.  Gingie (love this name more than you know) took some time to speak with ECC about her style aesthetic, design process and her current eco-chic collection.  Read on to learn more about this DC born, NY based designer:

How did fashion play a role in your life growing up?

Barbie was my first fashion model. I loved her lifestyle – the clothes, the cars, Ken!  Also, my Montessori school teacher Ms. Guha.  Her Sari’s were so beautiful and different from what everyone else in my life was wearing. I still love saris.

When did you decide to start designing?

I started designing in junior high, but just for fun.  I didn’t realize it could be a profession until high school when I learned about the Fashion Institute of Technology.  I started taking it really seriously, designing prom dresses for friends and cotillion dresses for relatives.

What is your style aesthetic?

My aesthetic is edgy, original and advanced. I require a solid concept with full on research. I have to “live” in the world before any designs really come out.  My next muse is Peggy Guggenheim.  I’m reading her biography and following her around, so to speak. I have no idea what the clothes will look like, but I am truly inspired by her as an art lover and bohemian.

What is your design process?

I start with a concept, then materials, fabric, textiles, then sketches…and then a first sample is made.

Are you sold exclusively at CARBON?

The eco-chic line was originally created for CARBON and can now be purchased at my online pop-up shop. Many of the pieces are perfect for fall. The AGNYS dress with the “cold shoulder” is my fave dress.  Someone called it “aggressive” which is funny. The CLOAK is the perfect hoodie for every day, anywhere.

Why did you decide to design eco-chic clothing?

Katherine initially invited me to do a line for CARBON and how could I say no!?  All of these pieces can now be purchased on my online pop-up shop.  I started researching “other” textiles in 2000, so I was already informed about the fibers and textiles. I believe in sustainability. It’s so important, especially in the fashion industry. We make a lot of decisions that impact the Earth. Some are bad. This was a good one!  Check out the pop-up shop on the SAINTCHiC website to purchase remaining eco-chic pieces.

Where did the inspiration for your logo come from?

The symbols and artwork are derived from Native American symbolism. I chose them because of their dedication to the Earth and the fact that I was doing an eco-friendly line.

Why did you decide to integrate the logo into each piece (which ECC loves)?

Aww thanks!  It’s the artwork and the labeling for the capsule. I felt like the capsule had to be complete with the Native American “message.”

Your current line at CARBON is very lux casual with neutral gray and tan colors and super soft sweatshirt and seersucker fabrics.  What was your inspiration for this collection?

The color palette is very Earth toned (dirt, stones, etc).  The fabrics come straight from the earth.  Tencel, Modal, Japanese Organic Cotton and Recycled Polyester.

Thanks to Gingie for sharing her time and designs with ECC!  Remember to shop Gingie’s eco-chic line online at her pop-up shop now available! 

See more SAINTCHiC styles below or, even better, view SAINTCHiC’s eco-line live this Thursday 7:00-9:30pm at Beauty 360’s (1350 Connecticut Ave NW Washington , DC 20036) Fashion Fights Childhood Cancer Eco Show (tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite – general admission $20, VIP $50).

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