In preparation for his fashion presentation that will take place on Sept.1, aptly entitled Sept. First., House Ov Beeombi designer Derron Cherry and team have been teasing previews of the 40-look collection that will soon make its official debut. Cherry is no stranger to buzz, however.
After making a move from St. Louis to Atlanta at the beginning of this year, his skills earned him his dream job: working as the head tailor for Tyler Perry Productions. We sat down with the designer during the private preview event that took place last week at Duane Reed Gallery to get the scoop on the project and his really cool ATL gig.
Photo by Alexandria McFadden
This collection was heavily inspired by your mother, who sadly passed away last year. Can you tell us how you translated that into your designs?
I took the inspiration from my mother very metaphorically in addition to her personal style—the things that she wore, the vibe she portrayed. She loved Diane von Fürstenberg—the wrap dress—so you will see that influenced very directly. My mother was also heroic—I think all of our moms are—and you will see that in the capes and that sort of thing. She was very androgynous, pairing men’s blazers and over-sized pieces with tailored pencil skirts. I really incorporated all of those little signatures of her and her style into each piece individually.
You mentioned that this collection is a little bit different than what you normally create—can you tell me what you did this time that was a shift for you?
The majority of my collections are very avant garde and theatrical, and for this I really focused on ready-to-wear. Some of the pieces still reflect that fashion-forward vibe, but they are toned down enough for a person that has character to wear them. This is also a larger collection. Usually I show 13-15 looks and this time I am creating a full 40 looks.
Is there a certain part of the process that you love the most?
I think creating a new person is the best part. Clothes are a way to identify you—to push yourself in a way that is unique to each individual.
As far as what’s next for you in your career, where do you feel like you would take this platform—what’s next for you?
Well I was recently offered my first major job, which is to costume design [for mogul and personality Tyler Perry]. I am still planning on creating collections and being a part of the creative process as an individual designer. I am really working toward establishing a high-end couture brand.
What is your favorite part of your job for the Perry team?
The pressure and the creativity is the best part. I have made sewing into a dream job and it doesn’t get much better than that.
View the entire Sept. First. Collection as part of an expanded Saint Louis Fashion Week season on Sept. 1 at 7pm at Public Media Commons. Snag your tickets now!
Photos by Alexandria McFadden.