“I always wanted people to feel like they could be themselves, which continuously inspires my work. Regardless of your race, gender, sexual orientation or size, I believe that everyone should be comfortable with being themselves.”
Iris Bonner always had a knack for drawing, which ultimately inspired her fashion career.
“I just really started as an artist; to this day, I say I am an artist. I just paint on a different canvas,” said Bonner.
One of the main driving forces behind Bonner’s designs for THESEPINKLIPS was her constant drive to push the envelope and being comfortable in her own skin.
“THESEPINKLIPS has been in the making since I can remember, said Bonner. As early as the 10th grade, I would sketch and draw these women's pictures in these crazy clothes. It was really influenced by me wanting to feel comfortable in saying these things or wearing these pieces.”
When Bonner decided she wanted to get into fashion design, she tried several different techniques but continued using her first passion — drawing.
“Drawing was always a passion of mine, and when I decided to get into fashion design, I tried sewing and different things like that, but it just didn’t work for me; I always just kept drawing,” said Bonner.
As an Arcadia University graduate in Graphic Design, Bonner grew up in a supportive household, which helped motivate her to pursue her dreams.
“Growing up, my mom was fully supportive of what I wanted to do. She never discouraged me from being an artist,” said Bonner.
“This led me always to be involved in various art programs from a young age, and then from there, I became friends with other creatives who were into videography and web design, which inspired and motivated me to share my work with others,” she added.
As a new mom, Bonner has a new drive when it comes to designing — her daughter.
“I just had a daughter, so I’m pushing myself even harder too for her. I want her to see me as a strong woman and someone fearless. I hope I inspire her not to be afraid of being your truest self,” said Bonner.
Since the conception of her designs, Iris Bonner believes that she evolved as an artist that allows everyone to feel comfortable wearing her pieces.
“When I first started, my designs were very “in your face,” and although I still am that way with my designs, my artistry has been tailored to fit everyone who wants to wear my work,” said Bonner.
“I really like to push the envelope with my designs and help redefine what fashion means it should be for everybody.”
Iris Bonner finds her inspiration in living her everyday life, whether through what music she is listening to or her favorite quote, it is showcased in her designs.
“I am inspired by everything right now. From my favorite song that I am listening to and depending on what mood it puts me in, it inspires me to think about what can kind of design would go with it,” said Bonner.
Iris Bonner has collaborated with celebrities such as Billy Porter and Cardi B, but one of her greatest collaborations has been with fellow designer, Patricia Field.
“When I started working with Patricia Field, she opened me up to many different opportunities and experiences,” said Bonner.
“I started working with her in 2012, and we are still working together to this day. So I really cherish our relationship; she’s such a big mentor to me,” she added.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many designers to a halt, Iris Bonner does not let it slow her down.
“I’m currently working on a lot of different things from making masks to working on trench coats,” said Bonner
“I’m really just going with the flow and finding my creativity again. I feel like there was a moment after I had my daughter that I was really just focused on my mental health and being a new mom, so I feel like now I’m really getting back into the swing of things.”
Image credit to THESEPINKLIPS Instagram & Website