Founded in 2003, Fierce Couture is the result of Tressa Williams’ endless experiments with non-traditional materials and construction techniques. Drawing on a diverse background in academia (a degree in art and architectural history from Wesleyan University and dress theory studies at NYU), men’s tailoring, and costuming, Williams’ work explores the relationship between the graphic line and the three-dimensional body. Her designs utilize the tactile qualities of latex to play with shape, form, and color, creating garments that are sculptural and unexpected.

 

Her work came to the attention of leading emerging artist presenter GenArt and was featured as one of their Fresh Faces in Fashion in 2004 where she showed a collection entirely made of latex. Since then, Fierce Couture has shown in London, Berlin, and across the United States.

After relocating to Los Angeles in 2005, the studio increased its involvement with the entertainment industry – providing garments for film, music videos, and photo shoots in addition to continuing to produce new collections and custom designs.