From now until the end of November I will be profiling three three local fashion designers with three very different career paths. These images and interviews are meant to showcase the talents of these three incredibly skilled women and to provide you with more information on their individual brands.
This week I’m showcasing Judy Cooper Lyle of Phyllis Designs. I interned under Judy for a while back in 2010 and received an understanding and appreciation for flowing fabrics and vibrant textiles. Her classic fits are combined with an elegant and ethnic flare and take inspiration from many cultures around the world, channeling Greek Goddesses and African queens.
What is your favorite creation; a piece you’ve made that you’re really proud of?
I would say the gown with the cape. It was created from a t-shirt, an old wedding dress, and end-of-bolt fabric from a shop in LA. It has a train, and a cape. I know someone who may be using it for her wedding dress
If you could only work with one kind of fabric for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Hmmm, one kind of fabric. That’s tough. No particular kind, but it should be very drapey and soft, with a little texture to it.
What, in your opinion is your favorite current fashion trend?
As far as fashion trends, I rather like it that women don’t seem to be so dictated by fashion anymore. We’re in a period when almost anything goes, and I could feel comfortable leaving the house in tight jeans, or a long skirt, or baggy pants, and either a jacket with shoulder pads or a cropped jacket. And women are wearing either dangerously high heels or cute flats. Or ugly boots with big clumpy heels. It’s a lot different from when I was younger.
Where do you want your career to be in the coming years?
I really would like to have a small shop, or at least a shop within my home. I’m getting close to that, because this fall I’ll be having a nice sign made for out front. What’s next? I plan to wind down the community theater company I’ve been heading since I founded it.
What’s up next for you?
After our two shows in 2014, my theater company will call it quits after a 40-year run. Then I plan to concentrate more fully on doing my own thing, as we used to say. That will involve a lot more designing and a lot more trunk shows.
CORRECTION: The name of the design line has changed from Urban Raiment to Phyllis Designs. This article has been corrected to reflect the change.
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