FASHION
All-Inclusive
Christian Siriano
By Vi c k i Fr e n c h B e n n i n g t o n
56
GAZELLE
W
hether it was for the prestigious ceremony
filled with A-listers, the after-parties attended
by some of the biggest celebrities in the
world, or in the case of Keala Settle, who
performed the Oscar-nominated song, “This
Is Me” on stage, women of all color, shapes, sizes and ages chose to
sport Christian Siriano.
That was at this year’s Academy Awards ceremony, one of many
events that the designer’s pieces have been showing up more and more.
Also this year, Siriano is celebrating his 10th anniversary of being in
business, after his brand was launched in 2008, following his win on
“Project Runway.” After the show, he was soon in high demand, which
led to collaborations with footwear brands like Payless, and plus-size
fashion houses such as Lane Bryant, among others.
Siriano’s philosophy – and self-proclaimed difference from anyone
else - revolves around the inclusion of all women, regardless of race,
age or size. And his runway shows have become known for audience
participation and dedicated fans vocalizing their love for his work.
In February, his fall collection at New York Fashion Week included
satin bustiers, patent leather minis, jackets and ball gowns, part of his
eveningwear line, which is one of his bailiwicks.
In a recent interview with NYFW founder Fern Mallis at 92Y, a
multifaceted cultural institution and community center located on
the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Siriano shared some views on his
history in fashion, his brand, business sense and full inclusion. Here are
a few highlights:
At 18, he moved to Europe and attended the American Intercontinental
University in London, where he said the teachers were great, and all
worked in the industry.
One of them suggested he work at Vivienne Westwood, which he
did, later interning at Alexander McQueen.
“McQueen was a ve ry inspiring, creative place,” Siriano said. “I try to
run my studio like that because it was very hands-on.”
In 2007, a friend told him about “Project Runway.” Siriano had only
a day to get ready for the audition, where he won over the judges,
and then, won the season! Partnerships and collaborations followed,
making the beautiful designs available to a wider range of people.
Baker/A.M.P.A.S.
Christian Siriano