| 24 July 2008
At a time when so many apparel lines are springing up and focusing on Streetwear and Urban Apparel, C Landon Custom Tailored Clothing has not abandoned its core for the fast-fashion lane. We talk to C Landon, of C Landon CTC,; fresh off a fashion show at the Galleria in Greensboro, NC on how staying true to your customer, and your passion, can keep you on the path to success.
I know you just had a fashion show. How did it go? What kind of response have you seen from it?
It went really well. There were some other NC designers
I really like the yellow piece.
Yes, that happened by accident. I designed it for the keyhole to go in back, but after seeing a friend put the dress on backwards by accident; I got that idea, and it worked.
How did you get started designing clothes?
It started out as a hobby. I was really into hip hop growing up. I did some stuff for myself and friends; and from there I started painting graffiti on people's shirts and pants. I took a break from the industry for a while, until I was out with a friend, and saw an Yves Saint Laurent shirtdress that was very similar to a style I had created. My friend mentioned it, and that gave me the push I needed to get back out here.
I remember you saying you started out doing men's apparel. Why did you make the switch?
I had several women clients who asked me about doing items for them. Once I did a few shirts and dresses and saw the response, I had to go after that market. However, I still do tailored shirts for men.
What is the name of the line and the inspiration behind it?
The line is based on parts of my real name. The name of the line is C Landon CTC (Custom Tailored Clothing). I wanted to bring custom tailored clothing to the masses at an affordable price. My inspiration comes from my family and my long-time special friend. They have all helped me with my vision.
What separates your line from the competition and makes you the designer you are?
I feel that my passion for the female form allows me to see sexy styles
that will make any woman shut a room down when she steps in it. I also
love to make people feel ultra fly. I put my heart into every design. Then I sprinkle it with the magic of my ancestors.
Do you have any signature fabrics or silhouettes?
I work with a lot of soft cottons, chiffons, and silk blends. Those fabrics work well with the female form. I don't do too much with polyester. We have a signature cufflink shirtdress. The style is named the Josephine.
What are some of the obstacles that you have faced with starting a line here in North Carolina?
Finding clients that not only can afford my clothing but also can see the vision of having my clothing in their wardrobes. [Another obstacle is] turning over initial interest into sales. I know I would turn more sales in a larger market; but I want to keep NC as my base.
Do you have a fall line coming out? If so, what are the concepts / themes?
My fall line is going to be more elegant in every way. Our motto is Luxe for Life. Think of being at the Cotton Club in Harlem during the 1920's, but with a 21st Century twist.
Are you in search of any models or talent to help you showcase your line?
Always. I have been blessed with some of the most humble and beautiful models. I also work with the Hollywood Starr Agency. She will be providing me more models in the near future.
Where can we find your designs / clothing?
You can go to my website clandonctc.com for now.
What info would you give to any up and coming designers in the fashion industry in NC?
NC is an untapped market. Find you a formula that works for you, STAY FOCUSED, and stick to [your] script. Link up with a couple of factories that will see and share your vision for the long term. Don't let the lean times get you down so that you lose inspiration. Keep giving God all his grace and give back at all times.
What plans do you have for the line? Where do you see it going in the next few years?
I will probably have to move to Charlotte or Atlanta (although I don't want to abandon NC). I am focusing on Fashion Week in Charlotte in September. I am also working on bringing more exposure to NC and my line.
Without following the normal T-shirt-line-to-streetwear-phenonemon formula, C Landon CTC seems to be having a measure of success. While many are trying to get in where they fit in, C Landon is creating his own fit.
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