Corrine Grassini named her label Society for Rational Dress after a group of women who, at the end of the 19th century, set out to reform restrictive Victorian era fashion. They wanted women to have freedom in what they worn. Grassini encapsulates that same spirit in her collection today, with a line of clothing that doesn’t subscribe to current trends. She makes clothes that a woman wants to wear; tailored to truly suit a woman’s form, sensual without being overtly sexual, and always with a hint of contrast between hard and soft (like the mix of leather and silk).

Paper-Doll: How did you get into fashion design?
Corrine Grassini:My mom always sewed and knitted outfits for my four siblings and I when we were growing up. She inspired me to learn the technical craft and when I got older she suggested I got to school for design.

What is the first thing you designed (personally or professionally)?
A hand dyed silk top – it was a simple oval-ish shaped pattern, cut on the bias with two armhole cutouts.

When did you launch Society for Rational Dress?
2005

What inspires you / your work?
Post modern architecture and art, industrial spaces, natural light, mountains of metal, white beaches, worn to death T-shirts and sweaters, my sisters, a misty morning, the feeling I get when I have a good book and a coffee in my hand.

Describe your SS’10 Collection.
SS'10 is about the pairing of luxurious silks, supple leathers and cozy knits. The feel is modern, comfortable sophistication.

What is your favourite piece from your SS’10 Collection?
The leather and chiffon harness dress – it represents the balance between hard and soft that I like to achieve in each collection.

Did you have a personal soundtrack or a favourite album that you listened to while working on SS’10?
I always listen to a mix of stuff with every collection but this one was dominated by Leonard Cohen, Can, Nina Simone, Tim Hardin and Elton John.

What area of your work do you enjoy the most?
I love being able to travel for work and seek out inspirations to filter through for new collections.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Since I’m designer and owner of the company, creating a balance between the creative and the business side is always a challenge, but I enjoy it.

What is the most surprising thing that has happened to you as a designer?
Every time I see someone in one of my designs it’s a surprise – it’s a great feeling.

If you could collaborate with any designer / artist / musician / etc. on a single project, who would it be and what would you do?
I would ask Richard Serra to design a house in the woods for me!

How would you describe your own personal style?
Comfortable plus 4 inch heels.

What is your favourite item in your personal wardrobe?
Society for Rational Dress cropped leather bomber sample from Fall 2010.

Where do you shop for clothes when you're not wearing your own?
Vintage from the Rose Bowl Flea Market, Scout, Store No. 6 and Narnia. For newer collections I go to Barneys, Cerre, New High Mart and Opening Ceremony.

What is on your current fashion wishlist?
A good raincoat.

What is the one item that every woman should have in her closet?
A cozy cashmere sweater.

What is your favourite thing about the city you live in?
(Los Angeles) My family lives here.

If you couldn’t be a fashion designer, what other area of interest would you like to explore?
Architecture, furniture design and sculpture.

What is next for your label?
A couple of exciting collaborations that I’ll let you know about soon!