The poster girl for androgyny, Aggy has always been something of a style icon, and now she’s added one more string to her already sexy bow: fashion designer. Launched earlier this year, with the support of her sister Emily and long time friend Tracy Moore, Title A takes its inspiration from the cool casual and relaxed forms of menswear, tempered with a grown-up sense of feminine charm. We caught up with the most wondrous woman in the world to talk suits, boots, and why it’s so good to be a girl.
When and how did Title A come about?
Toward the end of the Doc Martens collaboration (which was an amazing experience, it’s such a good company). I had done other collaborations before but for some reason this time I got bit by the bug to create and design really bad and I couldn’t stop myself.
Who is the Title A girl?
A woman that wants to feel relaxed and comfortable in her own skin. She isn’t chasing the fashion cycle so much as she’s chasing things that reflect the discovery of her sense of self.
What’s the story behind the name?
It came about from trying to figure out a name for the brand that echoed my attraction to simplicity, but I didn’t want to use my name. It evolved into a reference on the growing lack of significance of titles (Mr. Mrs. Miss).
How do you negotiate between your own personal sense of style and the taste of your would be buyers?
I haven’t needed to negotiate, yet. We don’t quite deal in the avant-garde. It’s not what we’ve set out to do. We hope Title A is helping to fill a void that’s been growing as a result of fashion (or, the world of fashion) becoming such a huge part of the mainstream. ?
Why do you think girls love wearing boys’ clothes so much?
I would guess its personal for each person. It looks cool. Some people prefer their clothes loose, relaxed and comfortable. It’s a comfortable, understated way to show that you don’t owe it to anyone to “show yourself off”, because sometimes you just don’t feel like it. I love a good bodycon dress as much as the next lady but a suit can be just as sexy – it highlights different attributes.There’s also the fact that often things that are considered menswear are just extremely practical garments, so of course women want them.
Do you prefer dressing up or dressing down?
I prefer dressing down for the most part because I feel at ease.
What item of clothing makes you feel the sexiest?
A bad-ass pair of boots seems to do the trick.
What makes you feel the most confident and secure in yourself?
Jeans, a crisp button down and some good, flat shoes.
What about the line is masculine and what about it is feminine?
They’re all mixed together but if it were on a scale, the suits and trousers would be on one end and the dresses would be on the other.
Who or what was the inspiration behind the overall aesthetic?
The pull towards practicality, elegance and a straight silhouette. Women: Fran Lebowitz, Donna Tart, Sylvia Von Harden, Dorothy Parker, Patty Smith, Diane Keaton.
How do you want the women who buy your clothes to feel when wearing them?
I want them to feel at ease. I don’t want the clothes to distract them from whatever they’re up to.
How has your styled evolved over the years? And what kinds of things have triggered change?
I still love weird clothes, but I admire them more as a spectator now. I’ve just experienced a shift of priorities. I love seeing people decked out, it makes me so happy – but it doesn’t feel right for me anymore.
What’s your definition of beauty?
Awkwardness, kindness, intelligence.
What’s the best thing about being a woman?
La Perla lingerie.
What is your biggest hope for Title A in the future?
For it to become a stable long lasting brand that its customers feel close to. I’d love to create a brand where you know you can always find what you’re looking for and you know someone understands what you need.
What’s next?
Hustlin’ for the next season.
Credits
Text Tish Weinstock