Ennio Capasa is the super-suave designer behind one of Italy’s hottest brands, Costume National. Founded in 1986, the success of the brand saw Capasa become an internationally acclaimed designer, known for his use of subtle shapes and impeccable tailoring.
Since 1989 Capasa has shown his creations at Paris Fashion Week , every year, with hordes of fashion lovers clambering to get a prized invite. And it’s not just the style elite pining for his clothes, Capasa also has a legion of A-list followers including Cameron Diaz and Lady Gaga. Emirates Woman caught up with the designer at Fashion Forward to find out his life lessons.
Being a designer is my life mission. I’m so lucky to do what I do, I wake up in the morning and think: ‘Wow, I produce beauty.’ There is nothing better in life than beauty.
Fashion is what keeps me happy. Even though being in fashion means I wake up running, as I have so many new projects, I love it. It’s my destiny to never sleep.
Luxury is having the freedom to do what you want. I still have an independent company so I can work freely on my vision and rely on my aesthetic sense.
Don’t trust everything people tell you. Sometimes the markets say do this because it sells more or do that because it works better, this isn’t true. Always be loyal to yourself and it will work out.
You need to believe in yourself. Stay true to yourself and have a strong point of view. Always be relevant to what you are doing.
Accept that there will always be obstacles. Designing is a business that involves so many people and sometimes it’s not you but the situation that makes life harder. Dealing with production, finance and commerce is bound to create problems.
People who have an easy life are often unhappy. Instead of being creative and productive, they find a way to complicate life because they’re bored.
Style means authenticity. It is about your point of view and being focused on what you are doing. Having one strong vision and being recognisable is also very important.
I like to go to the essence of the point. Some say I’m minimal and rock and roll, I’m not sure. Sometimes I am, sometimes I’m not. My inspiration is graphic, powerful and sexy.
Travel is important. You find so many interesting people all over the world. I particularly love Japan and Korea for the creativity and energy.
Success is all about balance. It’s all about achieving something you never even dreamed of and thinking wow and then moving onto the next dream.
Don’t have regrets. If I could go back in a time machine I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so happy with my career and with almost everything I’ve done. It’s a real privilege.
