Above the Fray

We're thrilled to share an original photoshoot and Q & A with fashion darling Christian Sirano

Christian Sirano chats with Kari Skaflen about the process of creating the breath-taking pieces featured here, his top five life moments and how he keeps up with the ever-changing demands of fashion

KS- You have your own successful label going strong into its 4Th season; a diffusion line of shoes and bags; a book; design for Starbucks and more. How does one small person produce so much and not burn out?

CS-I love to work and it such a blessing to wake up everyday and do what I love. It is hard work but its work that I love so it make it OK. I also have such a great team to help support me which is such a huge part!

- What keeps you sane?

Candy and junk food and bad TV I think even if the day is horrible I'm able to loose myself in the world or entertainment.

- What's your favorite part of the design process?

I love the beginning art of researching, seeing the new collection of fabrics from France and Italy is so exciting each season and I just love to see the clothing become something alive.

- What's your biggest challenge each season?

So many each season I have to create a collection that is well prices for the retailers,press savvy,wearable,inventive and exciting which is not easy to do season after season when so days i just want to sell the clothes and make money and showcase my craft!

-What's the best piece of advice you've received and why?

I think the best advice is to always be yourself and never second guess yourself. I think making a decision based on a decisive point of view is very important.

- Why in your opinion, why do women buy Christian Siriano? What do you offer that's original and unique?

I think and hope they buy into a brand that is growing full of glamour and excitement each season. I also think they are buying something special and unique. I still am a small designer and the clothing is not accessible everywhere which is something special!

- Who is your favorite client?

I love any woman who just loves fashion and love to be beautiful. She really like to get dressed in the morning and love to have a look no matter what that look it will be fabulous!

- Give us the top 5 moments in the life of Christian Siriano.

In no order they are:

-Winning runway

- Dressing some of the most fabulous women in Hollywood

- Selling to some of the most fabulous retailers like Saks and neimans

- Seeing women everyday in something I created

- Working and collaborating with some of the best brands in the US

- What's your best habit and your worst habit?

I am very decisive, I overwork.

- What has been your biggest mistake?

I never think about any mistakes!

- What do you worry about?

Everything that has to do with money and funding a small business!

- What's your biggest strength in design?

Taste and style. I don't think that is something that can be taught!