There’s a calming presence that surrounds Connor McKnight, a designer whose work reflects his own personal serenity. His clothing exudes a nonchalant modernity, perfectly capturing the essence of his laid-back personality. This inherent ease is reflected in his latest collection, a testament to his evolving design philosophy.
McKnight, at the age of 30, has shed the urge for unnecessary challenges. “I’m leaning in,” he explained, “The challenge-just-for-challenge’s-sake doesn’t really resonate with me anymore.” This shift in perspective is something many can relate to as we mature, choosing our battles and embracing the path of least resistance. For McKnight, this means focusing on what truly works for him, and menswear is undoubtedly one of those things.
While he has dabbled in womenswear, this collection emphasizes his core strength: menswear. “I think people see me as men’s first, and that’s something I can lean into because it comes easier to me.” He plans to expand his offerings in the future, incorporating more womenswear elements with interchangeable sizing, but for now, he’s allowing this evolution to unfold organically.
Simultaneously, McKnight is embracing a sense of play in his designs. His signature cropped silhouette, featuring high-waisted trousers and funky cropped knits and blazers, is further accentuated with a longer leather jacket, catering to those who prefer a less cropped aesthetic. The collection boasts a rounded aesthetic, with bubbled hems achieved through drawstrings and curved gusseted pockets, softening and modernizing the often austere tone of his clothing.
McKnight’s commitment to sustainable practices shines through in his use of deadstock fabrics. He has crafted pants and jackets from repurposed military tents and camping bug mesh, a playful nod towards transparency and a unique approach to material exploration. “I see people like transparency these days!” he laughs, highlighting the pre-worn aspect and texture that adds depth to his garments.
McKnight’s clothing often carries a lived-in patina, and this latest collection further enhances this element with novelty and depth. He plans to offer his creations through direct-to-consumer channels, collaborating with select retailers to create exclusive versions using the materials he discovers. The hunt for unique materials, the creative process, and the final product are all part of the fun for McKnight, a designer who finds joy in pushing the boundaries of his craft.
