New York: Independent fashion label SC103 has moved to a historic warehouse in Red Hook, marking a significant shift in its design approach and celebrating the legacy of small businesses in the competitive fashion industry, especially during New York Fashion Week.
In a notable development within the New York fashion scene, the independent brand SC103 has embarked on a new chapter by relocating from their original premises in the Financial District to a historic red-brick warehouse in Red Hook. Designers Sophie Andes-Gascon and Claire McKinney have chosen a location facing the water near the iconic Amazon building, signifying a bold step in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion during a time when independent names are gaining prominence, especially in the context of New York Fashion Week.
The newly acquired space, dating back to 1869, provides an evocative backdrop reminiscent of mythological tales, echoing the David and Goliath narrative that underscores the struggle of small businesses within the expansive fashion industry dominated by larger, luxury brands. “Even before I crossed the threshold of the 1869 building, I felt transported to another, mythic world,” the fashion writer experienced upon arrival, emphasizing the transformative atmosphere that SC103 aims to evoke through its designs.
Andes-Gascon and McKinney draw inspiration from a rich legacy in New York fashion, learning from their mentor Susan Cianciolo, and harking back to collective ventures such as Stephen Burrows’s O Boutique. This connection to historical fashion narratives showcases their commitment to craft traditions that resonate with their work. Unlike many contemporary labels, SC103 does not adhere to a polished marketing aesthetic. Instead, their output resembles an artist’s sketches rather than perfectly finished photographs, inviting a unique interaction with their creations.
The creative process at SC103 reveals an unconventional approach to design. McKinney shared that this season’s inspiration often began with the spontaneous act of “just cutting into fabric without really a plan and cutting out shapes and sewing them together,” resulting in garments that reflect a sense of improvisation akin to origami. Their current collection displays a striking focus on geometric shapes, with a playful reinterpretation of triangles and squares that evoke a feeling of movement and flexibility—a philosophy that mirrors the ethos of 1980s fashion, which is currently experiencing a resurgence.
Garments like a striped dress featuring a triangular neckline exemplify this aesthetic, providing a fresh silhouette that both emphasises the shoulders and showcases innovative construction techniques. This focus on dimensionality also extends to the label’s knitwear for the fall season, where dramatic scarves and shirts with solid insets contribute to an overall sense of depth and character.
Moreover, the collection captures a juxtaposition between playful and whimsical elements, with denim pieces adorned with vibrant patches and oversized buttons designed to evoke a sense of joy and lightness, suggesting that the brand’s identity is deeply intertwined with the nostalgic yet ever-evolving nature of retro fashion.
In an era where timeless brands strive to maintain relevance, SC103’s dedication to originality and craftsmanship within their vintage-inspired collections positions them uniquely in today’s fast-paced fashion world, providing insight into the historic moments that continue to inspire the journey of retro fashion, leaving a distinctive impression on both the industry and its consumers.
Source: Noah Wire Services
