EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
William: I’m very impressed by how sure you are of what you do. Do you ever feel like, “Oh my goodness, I’m not so sure of this?” Benson: I’m always 100% sure of the vision and %100 unsure of how to get from concept to creation. Each time I approach my work it’s with a sense of wonder and adventure. The confidence comes from knowing I’ve done this for so long that no matter what the challenge inherent in a new piece; I’ve the skills and tools to find the correct solution. I’m also a ruthless editor of my own work and do not ever allow an emotional connection to an idea prevent me from axing or altering it. William: How do you describe the Atelier Benson/ Manage la Mode woman? Benson: What I can tell you about every woman and man who allow us to dress them is they live life on their own terms. They like luxury and are bold and willing to color outside the lines. They are just as comfortable at a rock show as an opera. They cocktail with movie stars and have tea with the Dalai Lama. To sum it up; my clients are dichotomies of their own creating. William: How do Atelier Benson/Manage la Mode designs cater to various clients around the world? Benson: We’re worn on red carpets in just about every corner of the world. We have been the chosen design house of a certain elite clientele for three decades. To cater to these people, we will have first built a solid relationship with them, we know what they want, how they want to feel in it, and what impact they’re trying to make in our garments. We always go the extra mile for our clients whether it’s through late night communications when they’re half a world away or creating something in an impossibly short amount of time and getting it to them in Glasgow for an event. William: How do you describe the signature/classic Atelier Benson/Manage la Mode style? Benson: I honestly try not to. That may sound trite but as an artist I do my best not to paint myself into a corner with my words. I think we are true to our two tag lines “Couture with a Twist” and “Fashion Evolution. Sartorial Revolution”.
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FLUENTIAL NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018
I’m honored you are showing this segment of the Collection. You’re showing works from The Phoenix in the Gilded Garden. I’ve been utterly mad about metallic fabrics lately and the gold tones have made themselves loud in demanding more of my attention. I’ve also been drawn, thematically, by the idea of the Phoenix which dies in fire and rises from its own ashes. These gowns are as much a statement of hope, in trying times, as they are about turning perspective forward.