* My interview with journalist Vicky Bairaktari*
“Fashion should be a form of escapism, and not a form of imprisonment,” Alexander McQueen said. What are the differences between fashion and style?
Fashion is a global social phenomenon, and at the same time reflects the cultural, economic and political processes in society.
Style – is timeless concept and at the same time individual feature.
But the good news that multiculturalism and individualism are in fashion now – and this is a global trend. Look at the models in catwalks and ad campaigns – they are all of different skin color, age, body type.
What, in your opinion, are the timeless wardrobe essentials for every woman to be fashionable and be dressed adequately in any situation? A striped blouse? A beige double-breasted trench coat? A little black dress?
It depends on your personal preferences. The dress code is a thing of the past. Jean Paul Gaultier, for example, wears a nautical-striped T-shirt even with a tuxedo, and the striped T-shirt has become him distinguishing mark. After all, clothing is the surest way to express your individuality – use it and free yourself.
What is your source of inspiration and what is the most you like to work with?
An inspiration comes during the work, ideas cling one to each other, and the process captures me. After all, the artist should not be completely satisfied with the result – this is the road to nowhere. You can find an inspiration in absolutely unexpected things or find aesthetics where you do not expect it. I just like to do clothes, it’s like a theater – you change the outfit, and your look is changing totally, and together with it – and the world around you.
I can admire endlessly the Art Nouveau and Expressionism architecture, the paintings of Gustav Klimt and Edgar Degas. I like pure airy shapes; I like to play with silhouettes, textures, lines, lights and shadows.
I am delighted with Japanese designers with their Deconstructivism and asymmetry – Yohji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo, Issey Miyake.
You produce your collections in Greek family manufacturers, thus supporting the local economy. What is the philosophy of your company?
For us, this is the most logical way of production. So I can always be sure in best quality. Our mission is to show our customers that they can dress stylishly and qualitatively at reasonable prices. We produce only designer handmade clothes, while we have very low prices. It is very important for me my clothes to be worn, and I am happy when it becomes favorite. We directly communicate with our customers, taking into account the opinion of everyone, and we try to give the best result.
“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself,” – Coco Chanel said. Do you think that a modern Greek woman has her own point of view and style, which she can express through fashion?
That’s certain. Modern Greek women love fashion, but they are also very selective, dynamic, energetic and active in society, appreciate and honor traditions and therefore they will not get unnoticed.
How would you describe your current collection and your plans for the future?
Now we produce a summer collection, it will be very feminine, bright, colorful, and will certainly cheer you up. A lot of dresses with decollete, open back, with draperies, lace and pearls. In the pipeline is the autumn-winter collection with an emphasis on evening models.
Where can I find you?
You can find us on our website www.stylati.fashion and on the Facebook page www.facebook.com/Stylati/ .We are in Kavala – let’s meet for a cup of coffee to talk about.
Many thanks!
