How do you select your fabrics?
I choose fabrics to match the vision that I have. I find the colors that match the idea of the collection and look for what can best match my vision. It can be a challenge finding the balance between what is available with the vision of the design in my head, so when I do find the perfect creative twist to match the vision it’s very rewarding.
How long or when do you start preparing for the next season collection?
I always try to prepare things in advance. Closer to the show is when things become more clear. In the final weeks before the show, no matter how much I prepare in advance, is when the hard work happens.
How many are in your design staff?
There are only a couple of us in my atelier. But I do some outside contracting work as well.
How do you decide what models to cast for your runways?
I have some models that I always like to use. I like a good simple walk. I also try to cast models that are beautiful from every ethnicity, I love to represent how different people can wear my clothes.
Who is your ideal buyer and why?
My ideal client is somebody who understands the concept of cool couture, like couture with an edge. Somebody who is confident enough to make a statement. They have to have a balance between sophistication and edginess.
Did you have any formal training? Do you think it is worth going to school or would you say skip it?
I went to a few couture academies, but at the time I was modeling and not able to take all of the classes. I trained the best that I could at the places close to me, and I became good after practicing endlessly. Having guidance from a well structured school would have meant everything to me. It’s so important to go to school, particularly one that teaches you how to actually make clothes. Nothing prepares you better for designing than learning to actually sit down and stitch clothes together for yourself.
What was the most memorable moment in your career so far?
Some of my most memorable moments were when I did the Vogue Italia cover with Rihanna styled by Patti Wilson, a perfume ad for Killer Queen, the cover of Elle with Lupita Nyongo, and dressing Lauryn Hill for her induction into the Hall of Fame.
Are you showing this year for fashion week? If so, which ones?
Yes, we are showing in NYFW.
Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?
You’ll just have to wait and see.
Who's your ideal celebrity to dress and why?
Somebody who is excited about the clothes. I’m always so happy whenever celebrities request my designs for a show or red carpet.
Where can readers find your collection and buy them?
They can be purchased on VictordESouzaNY.com, at ikram in Chicago, and EDEM Chambre Privée in Munich. The beauty line is available at Osswald NYC.
Where can readers follow and support you via social media? Do you have any other collaborations or things you'd like to promote?
I recently collaborated on a signature perfume with Navitus Parfums called Splendeur Absolu. It’s a very fresh unisex gourmand fragrance that I made with Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour. It has notes of Italian Bergamot, Grapefruit, Rum Absolute, Guatemalan Cardamom, Chocolate, Driftwood,Madagascan Vanilla, Brazilian Tonka Bean, New Caledonian Sandalwood & White Musk.
@victordesouzany