We play 20 questions with Montreal’s most avant-garde fashion visionary.
Pagination
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2009 has been a breakout year for Montreal designer and rising star Rad Hourani. After debuting his fall collection at New York Fashion Week earlier this year, the young designer instantly became the buzz of the fashion world. His edgy, modern, androgynous approach to design not only garnered comparisons to the likes of Helmut Lang and Ann Demeulemeester, but rumors of a future at Dior Homme began spreading like wildfire.
Dubbed a fashion visionary, Hourani’s genius is in his avant-garde unisex designs. Jackets transform from one style to another, vests for guys double as dresses for girls, high heels are re-imagined for a man’s wardrobe. For him, unisex isn’t a gimmick or a hot new trend. It’s his point of view. “I could never find the kind of clothes I wanted to wear, either in men’s or women’s, so I made a collection for myself,” says Hourani. “The best thing about it was finding my own style — the line reflects me completely.”
Hourani may still be an up-and-comer but he’s not letting his amateur status slow him down. This month, he launches his new line of casual basics, Rad by Rad Hourani. While the original Rad Hourani line focuses on statement pieces like jackets, suits, leather pants and architectural dresses, the new line offers t-shirts, jeans and cardigans to compliment the main collection. The Rad by Rad Hourani line will be available this month at radbyradhourani.com.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being at peace with yourself.
If you could choose an occupation other than your own what would it be?
I would be an architect because when I sketch I start with a form instead of thinking about the clothes first. I like graphic lines that are very architectural so I think being an architect would fit perfectly with me.
Who is your style icon?
Myself.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I always say “illegal,” like if I have a bad meal or go to a bad movie, I’ll say, “Oh my god, this is so illegal.”
What is your most treasured possession?
Life. I think life is a treasure.
iPhone or Blackberry?
I have an iPhone but I only use it for important calls. I rarely answer my phone. But I do think it’s very modern and beautiful.
More with Rad on the next page ...
We play 20 questions with our ELLE compatriot, Joe Zee
