Seam and Heard: Erik Hart, Designer of Factory of Aesthetics and Dreams

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

Erik Hart has far too many creative outlets to reduce him to one line and many slashes. He sings. Writes songs. Plays at least three instruments. Makes movies. Creates stories. And let's not forget, makes fashion. This self-taught designer (never studied at a fashion school) relies purely on his strong sense of style to put out collection after collection (his other label, Morphine Generation, is in its sixth year). Factory of Aesthetics and Dreams, Erik’s new upscale line for men and women, consists of a tight collection of focused and tailored pieces. It’s reminiscent of the early '80s New Wave movement—but oh so contemporary.

What inspired your latest collection?
I created a fictitious band called Dark Hearts, created a short film about them as well, and the collection reflects what the bandmembers would have worn. Also the New Wave movement of the late '70s early '80s inspired me.

Who’s the quintessential Erik Hart woman?
A sophisticated, very well-read woman who loves art and culture. She’s definitely youthful, loves to wear sexy things as well as men’s clothes. She’s very strong, knows what she likes, is uncompromising and very specific.

Who’s your favorite LA designer?
Rick Owens

Who’s your favorite designer over all?
Can’t narrow it down to one, I love Japanese no-name designers that I see in Tokyo—they’re incredible.

What are the advantages of working in LA over working in NYC?
I’m in NYC all the time, so technically I do a lot of my work out there. There’s lots of space in Los Angeles, that’s very important.

What’s your go-to shopping spot in LA?
I don’t really shop in Los Angeles, Scout I love.

What’s the season’s must-have item?
My black shift dress with the zippers in the back and my trench coat.

The season’s-not-under-any-circumstances – don’t care if you’re Agyness Deyn or Kate Moss– have item?
Even the most hideous piece can look incredible when styled right.

Factory of Aesthetics and Dreams is available at Ron Herman, Scout, and Kin Boutique. Photos by Christina von Messling. Makeup by Tania D. Russell/Makeupwerks.com using Smashbox Cosmetics.