fashion designer extraordinaire, Michael Alan Stein unveiled 14 pieces
from his Fall, 2009 collection at Chicago’s latest hot spot, the Victor
Hotel. “A First Look” guests had the opportunity to see the
latest collection of Stein’s sleek, sophisticated designs. The designer’s line is frequently praised for being wearable while still maintaining high fashion
elegance. —tony binns
What should audience/fans
expect to see this Fall?
I love clean lines — no
fuss, no muss. Nothing real frilly, but very clean lines — classic clothing.
You attended the
prestigious Parson’s School of Design, what did you do after you left?
Since attending Parson’s
School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology, I was a finalist
on CBS’ reality TV hit “The Cut with Tommy Hilfiger”, and I’ve created exciting and colorful uniform designs for the world renowned
Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group.
How long have you
been designing?
I’ve been designing for several years. I have been a consummate designer for theater and film. I started
doing wardrobe styling and was a stylist in New York for many years.
From wardrobe styling I went into costume design, [like] ice shows for Las
Vegas revues and Royal Caribbean.
Are you doing anything in film?
I just recently completed
costume design for Of Boys and Men, starring Angela Bassett and
Robert Townsend.
What about Chicago
as a market?
I think Chicago can support
it. For years past, Chicago was one of the markets that was heavily sought
after. The Mayor’s Office has been very supportive. Chicago
is a great city — very livable. It has all the things New York
has just in more palpable doses.
What advice would
you give to other aspiring local designers?
Never give up! If this
is something you have a passion for you have to follow it.
Contact info: Michael
Alan Stein Collection, 312-498-4954, [email protected]
