Geoffrey Mac
Geoffrey Mac is a New York-based designer and the winner of Project Runway Season 18. After graduating from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he launched his own all-latex clothing line, focusing on club wear. In 2004, he moved to New York and worked with designers Cynthia Rowley, Zaldy, and Desi Santiago. Geoffrey Mac’s work has been worn by musical icons like Madonna, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Björk, and Lil’ Kim. In 2012, he launched his debut ready-to-wear line at NYFW. Geoffrey Mac’s designs are literally cutting-edge with futuristic cut-outs, interesting textures, and innovative silhouettes.
When did your love for fashion design begin?
Probably around 2nd grade. I was watching a Jane Child video, she was covered in piercings in a long black leather trench. There was nothing amazing about the video itself, it was simply her in a badass look walking through NYC. But I realized the impact style had on the video, she would’ve been literally nothing without the look. The song was cute but the look was epic.
What inspires you when creating your collections?
Furniture, art, and architecture are constant inspirations. But honestly living in NYC there is just about every look imaginable on the streets, it’s what keeps me constantly inspired. The demographic is homeless through trust fund...quite the spectrum.
How would you describe your latest collection, Odyssey?
It was about going on a journey, being prepared for any situation. The garments are weather savvy, comfortable, and appropriate for day or night. It’s for the person who goes out in the world ready to tear it up.
What is your favorite part of being a designer?
Creating, I love coming up with new ways to look at the body. New techniques and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s an obsession.
Your designs have been worn by many icons and you’ve also gotten to work alongside other talented designers. Is there anyone in particular that you’d love to collaborate with in the future?
Offhand Lizzo, Beyonce, Missy Elliot, and Grace Jones are all powerful iconic women that would be an honor to work with. Fearless style is always what attracts me to a client.
What is your design process typically like?
It’s all over the place, lots of experimenting. I do a lot of surface manipulations and layers of techniques, all of which help me land somewhere inspirational. I generally combine sketches of techniques and silhouettes until magic happens.
What are three things that you’re loving right now?
Oversized
Unisex
Second hand
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Professionally it’s winning Project Runway. Personally, dressing Björk. She has always been a constant source of inspiration. I respect the fuck out of anyone who dives deep in their art and creates without apologies.
What was the biggest lesson you learned while competing on and ultimately winning Project Runway?
It’s important to be yourself. I really struggled with self-image before the show. But when I finally decided to do the show, my boyfriend at the time promised me if I could just pretend the cameras aren’t there and be myself that everything would work out fine. I found it hard to believe but I trusted him with all my heart, and it turned out that people loved me. I was able to watch the show and see myself in a new light.
What advice would you give to any aspiring designers?
If your parents ain’t rich and you’re not a hard worker capable of long hours, find a different field.
What can we expect next?
Working on some collaborations…Stay tuned for new work coming soon!
Social media.
Instagram: @geoffreymac
TikTok: @geoffreymac
Article by Taylor Houston, Assistant Fashion & Beauty Editor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Alexa Dyer, Graphic Designer, PhotoBook Magazine
*All images courtesy of Geoffrey Mac
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