IN CONVERSATION WITH JONATHAN MARC STEIN
interview JANA LETONJA
Jonathan Marc Stein is an emerging, influential fashion designer with a fresh and inspirational style. His brand is known as an innovative, forward-looking brand that conveys bold and exciting, multifaceted clothes that mirror the lively qualities of the people they are made for, ranging from couture pieces to unique everyday creations.
Jonathan, how did fashion become your life?
Originally, when choosing my path in life I thought that maybe I would become an architect, artist, engineer, or even a chef. But when it was time to make my career decision while choosing colleges, I decided that being an engineer in the design space was what I was really supposed to be. It was not until my sophomore year while waiting for a class to begin that I saw my first runway video online. It was a 1990 something Alexander McQueen fashion show. I was amazed at the structure, art and lifestyle rolled into one. It instantly sparked something in my soul and I knew I was destined to follow this path for the rest of my life. In between classes, I taught myself how to sew and showed at small events within Ohio. Soon after, I was invited to showcase my designs at Los Angeles and New York Fashion Weeks. This is when I understood that maybe I am actually good at this and this is what I was meant to pursue.
Before fashion, you got a degree in mechanical engineering. How does this influence your approach to design?
Most do not realize that engineering and fashion overlap in so many different ways. The amount of math, structure, physics and material selection that go into fashion is astounding. Engineering allowed me to understand how things work and I applied this to my own design processes. My degree helps me to design clothing that is both beautiful to look at, but also holds and shapes the body in an alluring way.
How would you describe the style of your designs, and what usually inspires them the most?
My style is both modern and edgy, yet elegant. I incorporate contrasting materials within most pieces. By pairing structured leather with flowy silk, the form can experience different feelings, yet still be cohesive. Inspiration comes to me in many forms, but usually from my exposure to the outside world. This can be in the guise of architecture, people, art, organics, landscapes and more.
Tell us more about your vision for the brand.
My brand is the epitome of who I am and is reflected in what I project out into the world. I hope to create a clothing company that is not only inclusive of anyone and everyone, but also allows each individual who wears me to feel beautiful and confident in who they are. I want to create something that helps people find themselves, is protective of the only planet we have, and that also gives back to its community. JONATHAN MARC STEIN Atelier and all who embody it strives to create something that is bigger than itself.
You crafted your first collection back in 2017. How have you and your brand developed throughout the years since then?
My first collection was one that I look back on with a lot of regrets and endless learnings. I can say with confidence that with each collection produced I have become more and more proud of my work. I have developed my crafting skills exponentially from 2017 to now. My overall aesthetic changed and I have produced garments that reflect my true designing capabilities, but my craftsmanship and quality have also increasingly become better and better.
The brand is known for being innovative and constantly seeking new ways of presenting women and men’s fashion. Why do you believe being innovative and forward looking is so important today in the fashion industry?
Fashion is art. Plain and simple. There are so many extremely talented individuals in this space that competition is prevalent. Being innovative and creating something that no other brand has is key to standing out in the marketplace. So many stay in the past with their practices, values and infrastructure. I hope to make my mark within the industry in my own way and be recognized for positive values and not ones detrimental to our world and morals.
One more and more important factor in fashion today is sustainability. What is your opinion on this and how do you implement it in your brand?
Sustainability in the fashion industry is something that is not very prevalent, especially in the luxury space. I have implemented sustainable practices within my brand and company for many years. Fashion is one of the most polluting industries with so much waste. From my leather to my hardware, transportation and all fabric choices are intentionally planned to be as environmentally friendly as possible while still maintaining high quality goods. I hope to become even more sustainable as my brand grows.
Having been present on Fahion Week runways around the world and on the red carpets of the most notable awards shows, which moment made you feel the proudest so far?
There are so many moments in my short career that really made me happy to be a fashion designer. I have worked with so many amazing talents and prestigious publications over the last few years. Two of my proudest moments were winning a Golden Forever Rose from Arab Fashion Week that proved my worth amongst big name designers and completing my latest Autumn / Winter 2023 Collection with so many emotions so shortly after my father was taken from us. I cannot wait to see where my career takes me in the near future.
Which of the looks you designed holds the most special meaning to you, and why?
As a designer, I can say that I love everything that I have made, both good and bad designs. I am most proud of one of my latest iconic designs, The DAN/IEL convertible trench coat. I created it shortly after my father was murdered and it is my homage to him and his life.
What can you share with us about the brands’ upcoming plans for Fall and next year?
There are some amazing plans in the works that I am very excited to unveil this upcoming season. JONATHAN MARC STEIN Atelier will be expanding its borders with a new project releasing in September/October. With a new take on a classic brand and accessories alike, I am thrilled to share what I have been working on with the world.
