It is hard  not to be intrigued by these designs. Initially, it was the photography that drew me into designer Inka Sherman’s world. But the photography settings only enhance the flavor of these original vintage-inspired designs. As she told us her story, I found myself thinking…”No way! Really?” several times. I mean…who grows up in an Austrian artists’ commune! Her story is incredibly unique and I could quickly see how she uses her experiences to shape her company…ISM Mode.

LDB: I love the vintage, old-Hollywood feel I get when I browse through your collection. Where, specifically, do you find your inspiration and how would you define your brand?

ISMM: For this collection I started with looking at Images from the 20ties and fashion illustrations from Harper’s Bazaar which inspired tops like the “Art Deco Halter Top”. The suspender shorts are inspired by the “Gangster” image of the 20ties. Dresses where added later and where inspired by later periods like the 60ties shown in the “Twiggy Dress”.

We define ISM as “sophisticated Street wear” casual comfort paired with sophistication in style and detail.

Our Mission is to provide Comfort, Fit, Style, Social Consciousness and Environmental Concern.

More detail (Comfort and fit is something that I look for in clothes for myself. I make all patterns myself and we use natural fibers in jersey for the comfort.

Style I believe should be simplicity enriched by detail.

Social Consciousness is a personal concern of ours and magnified since Justin, my partner and boyfriend is an anthropology graduate student who is always looking for programs to support. This is something we want to strengthen as our company grows and we have more resources to support those causes.

Environmental Concern is something that has to be considered as one is using resources. This part of our company also will further develop as we grow.)

LDB: When did you know that fashion design was the career for you?

ISMM: I grew up in an artist commune in Austria where I started live drawing when I was four; we made movies and artists such as Joseph Beuys and Nam June Paik where regular guests so art was always something I was part of.

After High School I hesitated choosing “art ” as a career so I got my bachelor in economics but after a semester was so bored with the subject I decided to study fashion design at FHTW-Berlin since I was already sewing my clothes since high school.

LDB: Tell us more about your company’s commitment to social activism.

ISMM: I feel strongly about a lot of issues facing the world today, and I surround myself with people who feel the same, and it only seems fitting to make that part of my business.  We are working on developing a business that can produce locally (while trying to keep our prices low), use sustainable material (e.g. recycled fabrics) and give to a sector that is not directly related to the fashion industry, which is why we donate to the Urban Environment Policy Institute at Occidental College (a local program serving the Los Angeles community).

LDB: Even your photography settings seem to tell a story. Tell us what you are hoping to communicate about your collection through the images you use.

ISMM: With my background of being involved in conceptual art, photography is just another medium of expression for me. The location we choose to do the photo shoot in (an antique store) reflects the inspiration for designing my collection.  These photos express the versatility and playfulness of the collection. The different settings like the circus, old furniture, bookshelves and a dinosaur represent the adventure of life which provides the context for wearing ISM clothes.

LDB: What advice would you give to a designer who is just beginning their career in fashion design?

ISMM: Be patient. Do internships and explore the field of fashion. Don’t be to concerned with what other people do, find what it is that you like and if doesn’t make you money right away, start small and work your way up.

LDB: Which piece are you the most proud of?

ISMM: The “suspender shorts” and the “daisy dress” are probably my favorites. The shorts because of the versatility, without the suspenders they are cute shorts and with the suspenders they have a different style. Add some tights and boots and you have the perfect winter outfit. The same is true for the dress. Buttoned up all the way it can be worn very innocent but a few buttons open and a belt you have a very different feel. And for the winter, layer it with a long sleeve shirt and some leggings and again a new outfit.

LDB: Where might we find you when you aren’t at the sewing machine?

ISMM: As a member of the Costume Designer Guild I also work on movies and as a stylist so you might find me on set, at a photo shoot, hanging out with friends playing Pictionary, talking with my good friends in Berlin in the middle of the night, and taking in the last chances I have to be in the pool before it’s too cold.

And, speaking of the pool, check out this video of Inka’s designs in motion. See how it showcases the wearability and comfort of the designs.

And the best news of all! Inka is offering LDB readers a special on all pieces purchased through her website. Use coupon code littledesignerbook at checkout to get $10 off your order with ISM Mode. But hurry! Offer ends October 25, 2009.

We’ve been really inspired by ISM Mode and all that Inka Sherman has accomplished. We hope you are too!

Thanks for sharing your story with us, Inka. Please keep us posted on your success!