Is this working process one that changes and evolves with each collection or do you have a design routine? The routine is becoming more and more fast-paced for me as I split my time between building the collection and building a career for myself as a graphic artist, as well as working on various collaborations.  And as I learn more, there is more I push to achieve in the time I have… so it is definitely an evolution.  But one thing remains constant is that I am always patient and wait for that moment of definitive inspiration to come.

How easy was it to translate your skills from Graphics to Fashion design? Graphic design, especially when it comes to product, is about 3-D realisation of a visual, and an interest in fashion definitely made that transition easier.  Its always a learning process when it comes to physically making the garments, but thats why I have a team around me that know what they are doing!  And as long as I know clothes, and how I want to dress, then its a very uncomplicated process.

How would you describe the brands aesthetic? Anglo-Asian-inspired print-infused street-wear.

How does Sam Mc fit and identify with the current menswear landscape?  SAM MC appeals to the t-shirt-wearing guy who needs a statement piece to style with jeans.  I create very visual pieces that you want in your wardrobe, and will hopefully transcend current trends and always be fun and cool.  I don’t aim to create a hyped fad, more a label with longevity, like Givenchy, Supreme or Obey.

Describe the relationship between designer/ audience and how this interaction affects the way you design? I think it is far to easy for a designer to separate themselves from their audience and design in their own fantasy.  Fantasy is definitely what drives the creative process, but I try to stay as grounded as possible and design what I believe people actually aspire to own. I speak a lot with my mates about how far they would be prepared to push their style and do my best not to exceed that. These are real boys and girls and thats who I want to dress. 

Who or what are your influences, heroes, idols, muses, irritants? Darth Vader and Darth Maul are the original MC Icons. Sitting alongside them are influences such as the Brothers Grimm novels, photographer Tim Walker, Comme de Garcons, Riccardo Tisci, GOOD MUSIC, Jay-z, Chase + Status (Blind Faith video is genius), anime and Japanese toys, and Jack Borkett styling.  My muses are mainly the guys that I will use time and time again in my campaigns Josh Quinn, Tom Newton, Louis Barber-Cruz, as well as Jamie T, Coco Sumner, Pro Green pre 2010, and Simon Cook of Stone and Spear … and my Sister, Courtney MC, too.  

A dream brief, project and collaboration. A dream brief would be to work with Colin Tilley on a music video, styled by Grace Coddington, and choreographed by Chris Brown.  Collaborating with musicians is an amazing experience, and we have something exciting coming up for later in 2013.