Designer Simkhai shares style insights with Hub

Fashion designer Jonathan Simkhai is fast becoming a household name among the stylish set. The CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund 2015 winner is appearing at Saks Boston tonight for a shopping benefit with the Museum of Fine Arts. We chatted with the design star about his spring collection, his new West Coast digs and his thoughts on feminism. You’re temporarily based in L.A. How has that influenced your creative energy and work?

L.A. has a very different energy than New York. It's very relaxed, yet there is an excitement that permeates the city. What I love about L.A. is it gives me the mental and physical space to process and develop new design concepts. Have you been to Boston before? Any thoughts on our town and our style?

I have! I used to visit often when I was younger and in college. What I love about Boston is it's a city that feels very connected to its past and its future. Some of my very chic friends are originally from Boston. I think Boston style is all about effortless dressing and cool silhouettes. I’ve read that this spring collection is all about smart staples and statement dressing. How would you describe it?

For Spring 2017, I wanted to create a collection that was both strong and impactful, but also delicate and dreamy. I used a lot of custom-designed lace, romantic ruffles and pearl detailing, and the silhouettes are all about strong forms that make women feel beautiful and powerful. What kind of woman do you design for? I design for strong, fearless women. Is it important for you to meet the women who buy your pieces face to face? If so, why?

Of course! When I create, my clients are always my top priority. As a designer, I think it is important to get feedback on your product and get a sense of what the client needs in her wardrobe. What makes you feminist? Believing that people of all genders have the right to social, political and economic equality. Tell me about your relationship with the arts.

I am constantly inspired by art and architecture. What I love about art is that it can expose you to new ideas about form, artistry and even society. I love it when art marries dissimilar concepts into a cohesive and beautiful design, which is what I try to do with my own collections.

‘FOR SPRING 2017, I WANTED TO CREATE A COLLECTION THAT WAS BOTH STRONG AND IMPACTFUL, BUT ALSO DELICATE AND DREAMY.’