MICHAEL SCHMIDT

Michael Schmidt is a designer who has garnered attention for his work in a variety of innovative materials.  Based in Los Angeles and New York City, his studio produces works in collaboration with the top performers in entertainment.  With its ability to fulfill the most unusual requests, a variety of disciplines are employed to realize the visions of the most imaginative stylists, photographers and directors in the entertainment and fashion industries.  The studio is especially sought after for its approach to crystal detailing as well as its metal and chain-mail work.

Known for creating elegant yet edgy and often rock and roll inspired wardrobing and accessories, his list of clients includes Madonna, Cher, Rihanna, Tina Turner, Fergie & Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, Deborah Harry, Dita Von Teese, Courtney Love, Bjork, Aerosmith, No Doubt, Britney Spears, the Rolling Stones, Elton John, Bon Jovi, The Cult, Iggy Pop, Marilyn Manson, Joan Jett, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Grace Jones, Lenny Kravitz, Eartha Kitt, Ozzy Osbourne, and many others.  His works have appeared in books and photographs by such reknowned photographers as Herb Ritts, Greg Gorman, Steven Meisel, Francesco Scavullo, Steven Klein, Mathew Rolston, and Annie Liebovitz, as well as innumerable music videos and album covers.  A number of his pieces are on permanent display at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio.  Since 2001 he has designed an exclusive collection of jewelry, bags, clothing and furniture for the international luxury goods firm Chrome Hearts.  He is proud to have had a dress on display in the "Rock Style" exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in New York City. The floor-length gown, created for Deborah Harry of Blondie, was constructed of over 3,500 razor blades.

Michael Schmidt was nominated for an Emmy Award for Costume Design for a Variety or Music Program, "Cher... At The Mirage"  CBS 1991

Michael has also made several forays into the world of interior design. Projects include the installation of a massive bamboo 'Wave' construction at the restaurant Simon At The Palms, Palms Casino, Las Vegas.  Another creation is a knotted rope curtain for the lobby of the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs, CA, woven from more than a mile of white cotton rope.  Past projects include designing the VIP rooms of the Palladium nightclub in NYC, featuring the installation of black leather floors upon which silver studs spelled out the lyrics to the classic Iggy Pop song 'Nightclubbing' in Braille.

Recent projects:

    ~ Wardrobe and accessories for Fergie and Black Eyed Peas 2010 The E.N.D. World Tour and American Idol appearance

    ~ Wardrobe and accessories for Madonna's 2008-09 Sticky & Sweet World Tour

    ~ Wardrobe and accessories for Janet Jackson's 2008 Rock Witchu World Tour

    ~ Jewelry for Dolly Parton, Broadway premier of the musical '9 To 5'  2009

    ~ Wardrobe for Cher, 2008 Grammy Awards.  Also, all promotional materials for her 3-year sold-out run at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas.  Currently in production is a collection of jewelry designed exclusively for Cher for her boutique at Caesar's.

Michael is also the creator and promoter of the long running NYC nightclub SqueezeBox!, subject of an award-winning documentary motion picture.