New York: Designer Johnson Hartig draws from vintage influences and personal experiences in his latest collection. Highlighting joy and beauty, Hartig incorporates artistic prints and literary references, showcasing a unique blend of past and present in modern fashion while maintaining his brand’s independent ethos.
Fashion designer Johnson Hartig has recently had a moment of inspiration that reflects both his personal journey and the broader revival of vintage aesthetics in modern fashion collections. The creative process began with the rediscovery of some decades-old watercolor drawings, which were influenced by the work of French artist Sonia Delaunay. Notably, Delaunay is currently enjoying renewed attention, having been the subject of a monographic exhibition at the Bard Center last year, and she is featured in the ongoing Orphism exhibition at the Guggenheim. Hartig’s collection for fall showcases a variety of expressionist prints, including those creatively incorporated into jackets flaunting candy-coloured marabou and a unique pair of collaboration boots with Larroudé.
In discussing these artistic influences, Hartig highlighted the ethos of Orphic art, as defined by poet Guillaume Apollinaire, who described the movement as one aimed at producing “untroubled aesthetic pleasure.” Hartig remarked on his commitment to embodying this principle in his work, stating, “The day after the election, I did a post on Instagram that said, ‘Create more beauty.’ Beauty is one of the best forms of resistance. I am creating pieces of joy for people.” This focus on joy is clearly reflected in his fall collection, which includes a vibrant yellow and orange ombré print labelled California Sunset and a dramatically embellished topper inspired by Victorian style.
In a creative nod to classic literature, the collection also features a rose tapestry coat named Lizzie Bennet, after one of the main characters in Jane Austen’s iconic novel, Pride and Prejudice. Hartig’s recent wallpaper collection for Schumacher, titled Mr. Darcy, further illustrates his blending of historical reference with contemporary style.
Libertine, Hartig’s fashion brand, has maintained an independent stance in the industry, operating out of the West Coast. As he proudly pointed out, Libertine has been “profitable since day one, and never a dollar of investment,” underscoring its distinct position as an “undiscovered little brand” even as it approaches its 25th anniversary. Hartig’s philosophy leans towards a nonchalant yet confident approach to fashion design; he acknowledges that while he is not reinventing the wheel, he aims to offer “incredibly beautiful, made in America, really solid clothing.” This mindset reflects a larger trend in the fashion industry, where timeless brands are strategically navigating the fast-paced landscape by focusing on enduring quality and unique aesthetic values.
Source: Noah Wire Services
