JEFFREY C. WILLIAMS.

Creative director, designer and stylist.

Jamie Windust: Your designs and creations really have that unique and bespoke feel. How much did your gender identity and expression come into play when designing these pieces?

Jeffrey C. Williams: When designing shoes, clothing, handbags and other pieces for my lifestyle company (jeffreycwilliams.com), my designs reflect my gender fluidity, personal history, emotions, and how I want to be seen in the world. It takes lots of confidence, vulnerability, gentleness, and courage to be one of us. I like my pieces to reflect that uniqueness. There’s also a constant thread of my feminine and masculine energy woven through my designs. A sense of balance and unbalance at times.

JW: New York has just legally recognised the third gender identifier that is now available on birth certificates, which is amazing. How does it feel to live in NYC with its progressive laws, as with all major cities, transphobia and discrimination still occurs on the streets and in public spaces?

JCW: I think this is absolutely incredible! It makes my heart smile to see equality laws being passed. What a celebration! I think about the people who fought against these inequalities before us and the shoulders we stand on. It is important to still fight, to fill spaces, to be seen, to be heard, and celebrated for our naturalness.

JW: What advice would you give to someone who wants to break into the fashion industry but is worried that their identity, race or ability could hold them back?

JCW: I would say to emerging talent who want to get in to the fashion industry to just do it and do it every day. Don’t let what naturally makes you special hold you back whether it be your sexual identity, race, abilities, etc. It’s important to not listen to everyone because we’re all still learning. Only you secretly know what’s best for you!

JW: What are your goals for 2019 for you and the trans/GNC community?

JCW: My goal is to be an example of unconditional love, practice compassion, to be an authentic voice, and to always leave room to grow in our and with our community.