Kramp Kouture (http://www.krampkouture.com/)
Location: Buffalo, NY
What is your company all about?
Kramp Kouture is a womenswear label suited for women that want to stand out in exuberant, and embellished one-of-a-kind designs. Kramp Kouture is known for its Skeletanks – artfully shredded tank tops resembling a rib cage, custom tutus, a blossoming art piece of embellished tulle, and custom ordering options.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Many things inspire me; Impressionist paintings, music, film, or my favorite designers latest collection. My designs often get compared to Betsey Johnson (one of my favorite designers) and the 80’s with my design aesthetic.
Are there any pieces you’ve made that stand out as personal favourites?
My favorite designs are made with colorful layers of tulle. I made a tutu inspired by Hello Kitty (abundant white tulle, hot pink waistband with an oversized bow to match), which was custom made for Kristen Kelly of Bad Girls Club: Miami.
Tell us a bit about any new items/ranges you’re currently working on or have recently released?
My recent obsession is with lace and leopard print. I designed a long leopard chiffon dress with black lace inserts. I plan to release a new collection with ruffle shorts, shredded dresses, petticoats, and lace maxi dresses.
How do you make sure that your ideas and designs stay fresh and appealing to your fan base? I keep bringing fresh updates to my top selling items (tutus, petticoats, and shredded cotton dresses). I also find inspiration from my current obsessions and season collections. I stay true to my aesthetic and offer custom options to my clients.
If you could create a custom item for anyone in the world, who would you pick and why? I would create a custom design for Sia Furler. She is one of my favorite pop musicians. I love her quirky fashion sense and her image. She is a cute, quirky blonde with a magnificent voice a knack for songwriting and has a lot creative freedom with her image.
What does the future hold for you and your brand?
I plan to have my own boutique someday that offers alterations, custom designs, and a ready-to-wear line. In the meantime, I continue to create collections and style photo shoots. I will be designing costumes for several independent films including a short film for the 48-hour film project. Upcoming goals are to get accepted in 2013 Mercedes-Benz of Buffalo Fashion Week, sell in boutiques, and design custom looks for musicians.
