New York: Neil Grotzinger, part-time professor and creative force behind Nihl, unveils a fall collection merging vintage aesthetics with modern techniques, transforming traditional office wear and employing unique fabric processes to create one-of-a-kind pieces rich in character and charm.
Neil Grotzinger, a part-time professor at Parsons School of Design and the creative force behind the brand Nihl, is showcasing his innovative approach to textile design in his latest fall collection. Driven by a deep-seated passion for materials, particularly in the realms of embroidery and beadwork, Grotzinger has sought inspiration from the ordinary by incorporating vintage prints from old Sears, Roebuck catalogues into his work.
The designer employed sublimation techniques, preparing the catalog images by using an iron to imprint the faded pages onto fabric, resulting in a rich tapestry of patterns that seem both nostalgic and contemporary. Speaking to WWD, Grotzinger explained, “It’s basically the same process you use to digitally print fabric. But it’s less effective because you’re using an iron. But I just like it, it has a strangely homey feeling to it.” This method not only elevates the textile’s aesthetic but also imbues the pieces with a unique character.
In reimagining office wear, Grotzinger has taken traditional garments such as cotton shirts, blazers, and practical trousers and transformed them into oversized silhouettes. These are complemented by layers of undergarments and long overcoats, steering the concept of professional attire in a bold new direction.
Among the standout items in the collection are tops created through an unconventional technique where he dissolves the fabric material in water and then separates the stitches. This intricate process leads to pieces that possess an intentional vintage quality, described by Grotzinger as appearing “old and ‘moldy’.” He characterised this design choice as evoking the imagery of a dress that has transformed into mere fragments and ended up as a top.
While many pieces within the Nihl collection are one-of-a-kind, this ethos is deliberate. Grotzinger encapsulates his creative philosophy, stating, “Fashion is very fun for me. I really love textile artistry and experimenting with different techniques.” His approach highlights a confluence of vintage charm and modern innovation, serving as a testament to how timeless brands like Nihl can maintain relevance in today’s fast-paced fashion environment.
Source: Noah Wire Services
