Erika Hendrix - An Urban Romance

Affordable, eco-friendly, and cute? You get all three with Erika Hendrix! Designed by Erika Bates, Erika Hendrix was conceived in 2005 and has undergone a vast transformation since. With humble roots in designing custom-made, one-of-a-kind pieces, Erika Hendrix has now expanded into an established online business based out of Germany, with a bag and jewelry line on the way!

Erika's Spring/Summer 2009 collection is titled An Urban Romance, and you really must experience the lookbook for yourself. Not only are you witness to beautiful designs (made out of 95% sustainable fabrics, too!), but you get to read a narrative by Thom Crowe that compliments the pictures beautifully. It really is one of the most enthralling lookbooks I've ever seen. After viewing the pics and reading the story, you'll want to be an Erika Hendrix girl too!

I was lucky enough to be able to have a quick chat with Erika about her line, the unique concept of her Spring/Summer lookbook, and how she feels fashions differ across the continents... read on!

I read that you originally interned in interior design - how did you make the transition from that to designing clothes, and do you feel that the two forms of creation are similar or different and how?

I have always been creative, and I think interior design and fashion design is the same in different ways if that makes sense. It's both creating something. I just felt like I needed to start something else, so I pick up a sewing machine and started sewing. And it all went from there.

Where do you draw inspiration from in your designs?

I draw my inspiration from everything, everyday life is so inspiring!

I love that your Spring/Summer 2009 lookbook isn't just pictures of models in pretty clothes, but has a story that goes along with it. What inspired you to make your lookbook into a sort of story book?

I wanted something different and I wanted the collection to be more personal, so women can connect with it. To show that clothes are more than just clothes, it’s a part of ones personality.

Do you have a favorite piece that you have designed?

I love all my pieces and wear them everyday. I don’t think I could design something that I wouldn’t wear. But I really looove the cardigans from my new collection, I even made them in more colors afterwards.

How do you feel fashions differ in the United States and Germany, and how are they similar?

I think people in Germany or Europeans in general are very authentic with their style and definitely not afraid to stand out. But there are a lot in the States like that too, so I cant pigeonhole anyone.

Thanks so much for chatting Erika! Be sure to check out Erika's website for more information and pictures, and to shop at the online store!