The Inimitable Rick Owens

The American designer’s bold capital lettering and deliberately succinct answers reflect a man with a purpose. Known for his ability to fuse conservatism with rebellion to produce an inimitable style that often hints at S&M and primal instincts, it’s no wonder the American designer has surpassed iconic status and achieved what many refer to as a ‘cult-like’ following. Never shying away from making a statement, bold black answers on a stark white page, gentle but brazen, the man and the brand combine to shed a little light on those who have impacted them.

No man is an island entire of itself;

Every man is a piece of the continent,

A part of the main;

[…]

Any man’s death diminishes me,

Because I am involved in mankind.

And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls;

It tolls for thee.

John Donne, Meditation XVII (1624)

What is your personal understanding of ‘No Man is an Island’?: Wishful thinking. Sometimes it happens.

Who was the first person whose style made an impact on you?: Probably my father. He denied himself decorative indulgence but had one hour a day where he drank tea and listened to classical music. I think I learned economic gesture and controlled extravagant emotion from him.

Are there certain relationships that are important to your success/ safeguarding your principles?: Without my talented and patient business partners, I would be in the gutter.

Who was the last person who made you stop and think?: The writer and social activist Gloria Steinem. I saw her speak this year in such a gentle and measured way - dealing with moral conflicts every day had not seemed to threaten her personal serenity.

Can you tell us a little more about the relationship between Rick Owens the brand and Rick Owens the person?: They’re inseparable.

What is your take on the current ‘trend’ of gender blurring?: This generation’s gender experimentation seems a bit weak – they did it harder, stronger and louder in the 1970’s and in 17th century Japan.

Do you feel that there are is a need for a clear demarcation line between the conventionally feminine and masculine form? Where should the line start and end?: I believe in complete hallucinogenic anarchic celebration of the exploding Id.

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The Inimitable Rick Owens The inspirations behind one of this generation’s most iconic designers