Inspired by Everything from Mutants to Hillary Clinton, This Local Designer Finds His Niche
Anthony Heimann is the genius mind behind the fashion label, Nicholas Anthony. Based in Denver, the brand is known for its avant-garde imagery which takes from a variety of inspirations. Heimann’s pieces typically rely on unconventional inspirations, such as amphibians in his most recent Spring collection for Denver Fashion Weekend Spring 2017. However, his refined taste is reflected in each garment, resulting in one of a kind creation.
With each new collection, Heimann starts with a story where he sets an environment with characters, struggles and triumphs. “Many times I sketch these initial ideas and get to work patterning. Once my patterns are developed I move to create samples, or in a time crunch directly to the fabric.” He’s then ready to showcase his designs on the runway or at a photo shoot and watch each creation come to life. Heimann’s most recent collection, RadioActive Amphibians especially caught our attention, so we decided to talk to the designer about his inspirations, history with fashion and feelings on being a male designer for womenswear.
Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and your connection to fashion?
Anthony Heimann: My name is Anthony Heimann of Nicholas Anthony Clothing, an avant-garde fashion designer located in Denver, Colorado. My unconventional style utilizes recycled/reclaimed materials, addresses current events and delves into the imagination. Born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and raised in Casper, Wyoming, I always had an interest in theatrics and dressing in style.
At the age of 5, my mother taught me to sew in order to assist with theater costumes and holiday gifts. My childhood sewing projects also included movie replicas and prom dresses for friends. Initially interested in theater, my interest in fashion grew from a fascination in costume. A desire to create clothing which embraced an individual’s own “costume” led me to pursue a career in fashion.
Do you have an education in fashion design or are you self-taught?
AH: My knowledge in fashion design is both formal and informal. Beginning to sew at a young age influenced me to teach myself as much as I could. Apprenticeships also contributed to my understanding of recycled materials and helped me gain invaluable garment construction skills. Formal training in the fashion industry has led me to the pursuit of a dual bachelor degree. Studying business in Miami, Florida at Johnson & Wales University provided a foundation in professionalism and the business of fashion. My drive to know as much as possible about fashion and design has brought me to Denver, and coincidentally, to study fashion design formally.
Your last collection for DFW was extremely interesting. I heard it was about mutant amphibians. Can you speak more to it?
AH: My DFW Spring 2017 collection was inspired by mutant amphibians. The premise of this theme was to draw attention to the possibilities of mishandling our planet. Although amphibians are an odd creature, I was inspired by their incredible ability to exist on land and in water. And of course, I am always creating collections, this one included, with extraterrestrial and post-apocalyptic undertones.
