Unisexy w/ Brian Lichtenberg

Lucky for you guys [jk], I'm just going to bite the bullet and put up the B.L post now seperately. Plus this way I won't be feeling guilty all the time before my o-chem test!

So although I had heard of the Brian Lichtenberg before, I first zoned in after I saw his gold-panelled leggings...you know, cause of my minor obessession. He designs for both the ladies and gents, and you might have heard of BL since he's famous for dressing M.I.A [Paper Planes was stuck in my head on a loop a month ago] and Peaches. And he's also been in Nylon Magazine, Paper Mag, and most recently, Oyster Mag.

But he's not all flash...

[looks from spring/summer collection...don't you just dig the dress? it's even cuter in spreads]

Anyway, he was gracious enough to give me an interview, which I took full advantage of, of course. And here is the fruit of my labor (does that sound strange?). Enjoy!

[brian lichtenberg, pictured below]

The much feared question...what inspires you? (in general or as of recent)

My spring/summer collection was inspired by slime, slimer from the ghostbusters, toxic waste, and how clothes could morph if effected, drip and warp. fall/winter is a bit of a surprise until I show during la fashion week this spring.



What draws you to work with those graffiti-like graphic prints, neons, and holographic materials?

Definitely my childhood, growing up in the 80s/90s, fantasy and adventure movies of that era, my obsession with sequins and anything shiny and or reflective.

In high school you were the kid who _______________.

Dyed his hair every color of the rainbow and then some. I was voted 'most original' and people thought I dressed weird. I've definitely mellowed out since then.

Have any advice to those who want to pursue any career in design?

If its in your heart, go for it.

I hate the idea of exclusivity...but Who is the girl/guy that buys B.L.?

I've noticed that alot of the people that wear brian lichtenberg are style icons, fashion forward kids and free thinkers/artists...lately its been alot of guys but when I started making clothing 8 years ago the majority of my clientele and the things I made were for women so the flux of sexes is interesting as I make more unisexy type items now.

How did you get your business going?

My friend had a shop in la where he allowed me to sell anything I made, I worked up confidence after positive feedback from friends and customers and good sales to shop it around locally and make a bit of a name for myself. I used to make everything myself and mostly one of a kind up until a few years ago, I still do alot of one-offs and customwear as well.

What are your Fav haunts in L.A?

Downtown la, I feel like its my second home. My friends gallery/boutique called New High (M)art that features the work and enviornment installation by a different designer every 6 weeks, and also I love the club Mustache Mondays downtown at Charlie O's, they play the best dance music and have performances every week.

One Random question: do you have any pets? (names? type?...)

No pets now but when I was growing up I had pet fish and a fire bellied water lizard that was so cute. Oh and also a cat named taco. //

drool.... if I could afford these [$170 per pair] with my college student budget, I must certainly would splurge...maybe some of you out there are more lucky :)

where BL is sold:
http://brianlichtenberg.com/?section=stockists

(gold panelled leggings sold KIN on sunset blvd and JOYRICH on melrose.)