Slideshow

Slide Show: Portland's Project Runway Alumni | Seth Aaron Henderson

April 12, 2013

Greatest career achievement post Runway:

Working with Lord & Taylor four months ago to have my dress manufactured and in the 5th Avenue Window of their (NYC) flagship store. Every American designer that is now on top started with their stuff in that window. That’s the pinnacle: when you’re on 5

Photography by Yi Yin

Did the show accurately represent your style?

It’s definitely me at the time. It represents a point of view I have. You’re always evolving, moving forward, changing thought process, but you’ll always have your core.

Photography by Yi Yin

Why do you think Portlanders seem to make it on the show so often?

I think Portland has really developed into an attraction for independent designers, therefore I think there is a large pool, a large group of talent in a small area.

Photography by Yi Yin

Why did you choose to stay in Portland?

I like it here. There are certain things that would be to your advantage to live other places. As I develop and weave my way through these opportunities that have been presented in my design career, things would be more accessible (outside Portland), but

Photography by Yi Yin

Do you think it's possible to make it as a fashion designer if you stay here?

Yes I do. I get national recognition for being part of this area and that feels great to be part of that. Now we’re recognized for having great designers, and it feels good to be part of shoving it in their faces and saying, “look at us.” It’s kind of co

Photography by Yi Yin

What could we do here to improve that?

There’s a lot of infrastructure lacking in this city, production capabilities, sourcing capabilities, those kind of things. As an independent, as a business person that doesn’t make sense. I want to help the local community as far as manufacturing and fa

Photography by Yi Yin

What's the next big thing around the corner for you?

Just back from last months Palm Springs Fashion Week, alongside fellow PR alumns, Mondo Guerra, Michael Costello, and Anthony Ryan among others, Aaron is working towards getting the next collection completed.

Photography by Yi Yin

If given the chance, would you do it again?

Absolutely, the show was nothing but a positive stepping-stone for me. That’s why I currently still work with them. I cast (seasons) eight through 11 for them.

Photography by Yi Yin

Seth Aaron Henderson's collection at Portland's FashioNXT 2012

Photography by Yi Yin

Seth Aaron Henderson's collection at Portland's FashioNXT 2012

Photography by Yi Yin

Seth Aaron Henderson's collection at Portland's FashioNXT 2012

Photography by Yi Yin

To read our extended interview with Seth Aaron Henderson, check out this slide show of his recent collections.

Related Article:

The Road After Runway
Eleven seasons, seven Portlanders, three winners: we examine Project Runway's effect on Stumptown's designers.

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