“Indianapolis has a thriving fashion community of designers, photographers, models, makeup artists, hair dressers and wardrobe stylists that collaborate in photo shoots, runway shows, events, and publications.

I had the pleasure of interviewing my brother and fashion designer, Ian Stikeleather, who was born in London, raised in Indiana, and is now based out of downtown Los Angeles. Ian attended Ball State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree from their nationally-ranked program in entrepreneurship. He then graduated from the Art Institute of Indianapolis, with a Bachelor’s in Fashion Design.

We both moved to Los Angeles together after that, for me to pursue opportunities in film and Ian to pursue his clothing design career. Ian has since exhibited his innovative menswear line, Stikeleather, at Liberty Fashion & Lifestyle Fairs in Las Vegas and New York City and attended the global fashion tradeshow, Magic, which is also held bi-annually in Las Vegas.

Stikeleather has revolutionized how people view traditional menswear, not only because of its sleek silhouettes and modern palette but mostly because of it’s unique magnetic closures. No buttons or zippers can be found on any dress shirts, jackets, or vests. The patented magnetic closures are sewn into the garments, which allows them to be discreet while also holding firm for all-day wear. All his garments seamlessly transition from the office to a night out on the town, as well.

You can see Ian’s entire line at stikeleatherapparel.com or instagram.com/stikeleatherapparel. You will also be able to find his designs, here in Indianapolis, very soon at James Dant, a Store for Men, and in the Pattern Store.

If you missed the segment on IN the Loop about Ian Stikeleather check out the video below.  And don’t forget to watch me, Erica Stikeleather, every Sunday night at 11:30 on WISH-TV 8.  Keeping you IN the Loop of everything that is Indianapolis.