Words and Photos by Samantha Smikle
Spring 2009 Collection Highlights and Interview

Vibrant, free-spirited, effortlessly sexy and feminine are words that SUE STEMP uses to describe her eponymous clothing line and the women who wear it. Her Spring 2009 collection shown on a rooftop runway in the Meatpacking District during September Fashion Week gave us femininity not only in flirty hemlines but in masculine looks like tuxedo-inspired pieces and pleated satin cumberbunds. Stemp colored her collection with a neutral palette (black, ivory, delicate hyacinth blue and violet) and the digitally printed reproduction of a floral watercolor print by her artist friend, Deanne Cheuk. The juxtaposition between delicate and edgy was also seen in the models slow transition down the runway amidst the hard beats that 2 Mandy DJ’s banged out. Songs like MGMT’s “Kids,” Hercules and Love Affair’s “Athena” and “Blind” and Depeche Mode’s “Get the Balance Right” made for a dynamic show. Sue talks with us about the influences behind her line.

Describe the Sue Stemp girl.
The Sue Stemp girl is young, loves fashion, putting her favorite playlist on shuffle and dancing around the room.

What was your inspiration for this collection?
For this collection I was feeling soft and romantic but still with a sporty glamorous glossy edge. I’d been looking at the restricted sexiness of Edwardian time and the provocative dreamy innocence of photographs by David Hamilton.

There’s a great tuxedo and evening wear influence throughout the collection. Why did you take that route?
I’m always drawn towards cocktails! The tuxedo sportswear in the collection fit really well as a contrast to the more feminine pieces.

Music-wise, Hot Chip was a great contrast to your show. Did you have any say in selecting the music?
My friends 2 Mandy DJ’s played the music. We have a very similar music taste. I love "_blank">Hot Chip!

What musical artist/group would you like to design for?
Well I already have made a few dresses for Beth Ditto. I’m such a fan. I would also really love to design clothes for M.I.A. or Santogold.

5 top songs on your playlist?
The Presets…Talk Like That
Kings of Leon…Sex on Fire
Santogold…LES Artistes
Black Kids…Look at Me (When I Rock Wichoo)
The Kills…Hook and Line