Chromat is all about technical craft on bustier tops and bondage gear and has already got the attention of celebrities like Madonna, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, FKA Twigs…
Becca McCharen talks about why she switched her career path from architecture to fashion design, her muse and her fascination with technology.
Becca McCharen, founder of Chromat – architectural swim and athletic wear
From a town planner to a word renowned swimwear slash concept designer. Why?
I studied architecture and really loved it. To me the process of designing cities or buildings or garments is the same, but the scale and the speed is very different. With each discipline, you are investigating materials, joints, intersections, context and movement. I’m drawn to swimwear because it’s where our focus on body positivity and female empowerment meets our obsession with fit and construction. Plus, I love the power of water.
What is the first thing you think about when you open your eyes?
My wife Christine-McCharen Tran <3
What is your favourite celebrity to dress?
Bjork is my favourite celebrity- we haven’t dressed her yet but that is my goal! I love that she is constantly charting new territory both musically and aesthetically.
Who is your muse?
All the #ChromatBABES in our world who collaborate with us- from DJ Juliana Huxtable to curve model Denise Bidot to the music collective Discwoman. We are inspired by women who are unapologetic and fearless.
We love the Chromat colab with Mac! Can you tell us more about it?
Working with MAC to build our first Chromat makeup was a dream come true! Backstage at every Chromat runway show we tell the models: walk strong, fast and powerful: you’re a woman taking over the world! We emphasize direct eye contact and a strong stomp. For the collection with MAC, we wanted to channel that unapologetic power and energy from the catwalk with a collection that emphasizes strong eyes and bold lips.
I’d have to say my favorite part was testing all the products and getting my hands dirty with the product development team to design new colors, textures and finishes.
You are fascinated by tech. How do you see this linking to garments?
We believe garments should function as a tool and an augmentation and enhancement of the body–able to respond and adapt to the body and changing environment. We have had the opportunity to collaborate with leaders in the fields of architecture, art, science and technology to create new innovations. You can see more of our experiments with Intel and more here.
Favourite colour?
Can you guess from the new MAC x Chromat collection? It’s BLUE! Specifically cobalt and cyan.
What’s on your playlist right now?
Remy Ma, Grace Jones, Young MA, Bearcat, DJ Haram.
