Fashion designer Christopher Boyle will debut his first solo dress collection on Sat., June 12, during Fashion Week Cleveland’sAmerican Designer Fashion Show.
The collection was created from inspiration of 1960s designer Madame Grey’s drapey, Grecian silhouettes.
“You never know what will inspire you,” Boyle commented, as he is also inspired by all types of music and the mood it puts him in, among many other things.
The Cleveland native decided to pursue his education in the fashionable city of Los Angeles, Cali. and graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising with a degree in Fashion Design. While residing on the west coat, Boyle also obtained several years of credible career experience in the fashion industry.
Right: One of Boyle’s pieces in an editorial photograph, in which he styled and produced the photo shoot.
As head designer and creative director for celebrity Mandy Moore’s clothing line, Mblem., Boyle worked closely with Moore in many aspects of the design process from beginning to end. He has also had the pleasure of working with celebrities such as Sophia Bush, Vanessa Hudgens, Jessica Alba and Mischa Barton, to name a few.
Aside from the glitz and glamor of fashion design, there are challenges, as with any occupation.
Boyle explained, “A challenge for any designer is that you have to make sure you design successfully, but know that your design has to retail at the end of the day. You have to pull yourself back and make sure it's wearable. The idea in your head seldom becomes the finished garment. A successful garment is one that is as close to your original idea, and that makes you happy.”
Although Boyle is attracted to forward fashion, he is very much aware of how to transform a thought from runway to ready-to-wear.
Boyle has also been an active member of the Fashion Week Cleveland committee since Sept. 2009 and appreciates the educational twist that founder Donald Shingler has incorporated into it.
Since returning to Cleveland in January, Boyle has taken on yet another interest and is working toward obtaining a license in cosmetology at The Brown Aveda Institute.
“I never want to limit myself to one thing; I wouldn’t have the opportunities I have had,” Boyle said.
Left: Mandy Moore in WWD Scoop in a dress that Christopher Boyle designed with Moore.
Boyle loves the photo shoot experience itself and uses his new knowledge of the beauty industry combined with his knowledge of fashion to creatively express many visions.
“I like that in a photo, through the hair, the make-up, the clothing, the lighting, you have the opportunity to show your viewer a story with a single picture," Boyle said.
Plans have not been made as to where the next big move for Boyle will be, but he is open and accepting to follow the exciting road his vast amount of knowledge and creativity will pave.
For more information on fashion designer Christopher Boyle, please visit www.christopherwboyle.com
For more information on Fashion Week Cleveland, please visit www.fashionweekcleveland.com
