Interview with Ennio Capasa

10/21/2013

After spending more than twenty years away from Italy Costume National Women left Paris to appear on the catwalks in Milan. We asked the designer Ennio Capasa to comment on this clamorous return.

1) Coming back to Milan after 23 years was a big challenge. What led you to make this choice?

I was asked to show my summer collection in Milan and I decided to accept. Italy is a country that is full of beauty, creativity and art and it is going through a very difficult time at the moment. The international fashion community which has always loved this country has to help it to overcome this difficult time. I feel that I am one of those people that can make a small contribution through their work. I made this decision without thinking about the pros and cons of the situation but by thinking only about channelling my energy where it seemed to be necessary.

2) What is Milan better at compared to Paris?

Italian fashion has designers and craftsmanship that are unique in the world; the French on the other hand are very clever at attracting new generations, they know how to work together and don’t get caught up in just focusing on the local scene.

3) A few big names of Made in Italy host fashion shows abroad. Do you think your gesture will encourage them to come back to Italy?

As a designer I see fashion as a global system, without borders and I hope my gesture can help to attract new talent from all over the world to make the Milan catwalks increasingly more important and interesting.

4) The Fashion Week that has just ended focused a lot on new designers. How important is it to support emerging creativity?

Emerging creativity is fundamental as a source of new energy, evolution and inspiration.

5) Why did you put a catwalk in the Quartiere Varesina district?

I chose a location in the heart of the new Milano, a space under construction and a symbol of change and innovation.

6) What do you have in mind for the future of Costume National?

I think that I and my brother have created a global brand with a precise style. We are working on many important projects and I hope we can accomplish them as soon as possible.