the exclusive "Los Angeles" print
by Charlotte, graphic designer in Hartford
presentation
My name is Charlotte, and I’ve been working at Hartford—a brand offering chic and casual ready-to-wear—for over ten years. I’m a Stylist and Digital Artist—you could also call me a Graphic Designer or Textile Designer—and I work closely with the stylists on the men’s and women’s clothing collections. From the very beginning, when we’re brainstorming our inspirations and ideas… all the way through to creating designs, choosing colors, and developing samples…
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love drawing more than anything else; I’m passionate about illustration and graphic novels, and I especially enjoy hunting for vintage gems to find new inspiration for expanding our collections of printed shirts, sweatshirts, and accessories, for example.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR CREATING A CUSTOM PRINT?
After discussing with the design team, we work together to establish the design direction and creative concepts for the garments in the upcoming collection. I then conduct research on patterns, techniques, and colors… Throughout the collection’s development and beyond, I collaborate with the product engineers to ensure that the technical specifications are finalized and to make any necessary adjustments before production.
The design is first printed to create a “strike-off” or “first sample” on, for example, a women’s Sweatshirt or a men’s T-shirt. This allows us to check the colors and design and make adjustments before the final launch. Then, if necessary, further changes (such as placement or intensity) may be made between the design phase and production.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE "LOS ANGELES" Print?
The "Los Angeles" print is one of the prints used this season to create a women's sweatshirt and Bandanas. It’s a totally colorful and cheerful print! The color palette was inspired by the colors of Western American motel signs and the colors of L.A.
It’s a mix of graphic elements that symbolize Los Angeles and Hollywood! I’ve included a few iconic landmarks: the Hollywood Sign, the entrance to Venice, a motel, palm trees, the Beverly Hills sign…
It was inspired by my trip to California last year. I had the pleasure of fulfilling my “American dream” by visiting my best friend, who lives in L.A., and finally seeing those landscapes I’d always imagined…
It’s made from Cotton Baby Fleece—a very lightweight fleece that’s perfect for spring and summer! It’s also available as a “Souvenir Bandana,” featuring the main elements of the design and a variety of border colors.
