Finding your signature look can be as easy as wearing bespoke items that are tailored to you as well as your needs! We chatted with lifestyle designer, Matteo Perrin whose passion for fashion has been seen on apparel and accessories that have been worn by celebrities, socialites and more. We found out how he got into the business, why he designs and how he channels his passions.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us when you realized that you were interested in being in the fashion industry, your fashion background and when/why you began designing your line.
MATTEO PERRIN: As a teenager living in a small town outside Verona I went through many style transformations, some of which I am still proud of and some not so much. But I am not afraid to explore. I was about 14 when I realized that I really enjoyed creating things to wear. I had lots of inspiration from my grandmother and our dear family friend, a tailor in Rome who inspired me to create beautiful creations. I played around thinking I was not good enough to create my own line for a few years, until a tilting point in my life where I had to go one way or the other. I am grateful I chose my passion.
AM: In a world of fast fashion and mass production, bespoke design and personalization is such a coveted element to add into your look. Why is this something that you have embraced?
MP: I grew up around the artisan’s world with my great grandfather who only owned a few incredible pieces since, at that time, you owned a small wardrobe but it was all bespoke. My
grandmother was also the same, quality above quantity. So I experienced the difference between fast fashion and bespoke designs. I chose the latter as it is more fitting to my style of life and personality. I love how special it is to create something that embodies the person and their personality fully and makes them feel and look as they should.
AM: What is your work influenced by and what is the process like when you are creating unique pieces for your clients?
MP: Every single piece and every single situation is different. I design creations that are meant to make the person glow, so of course each person is a big influence in what I do. The process
is quite special; it's like a wine tasting, takes time, passion, and by the end you have a full understanding of the person in front of you, so the magic can happen.
Of course, same as wine, I choose the people I work with carefully. If I don’t feel the vibe is right and that they ultimately understand and can appreciate what I can create, then no matter
who they are, I don’t work with them.
AM: We know you have dressed John Travolta for years; however, who else has your work been on that we would know?
MP: Privacy of my work and design is key for me. But I’d like to invite you to stay tuned – there are gonna be big surprises coming.
AM: In addition to menswear, do you also design pieces for women?
MP: Yes of course, I consider myself a lifestyle designer. I design lots of pieces for women. Pretty much anything that can complement a person’s lifestyle, from clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories, luggage, blankets purses, etc.
AM: In addition to apparel, we know that you have designed accessories as well. What is the power of an accessory on a look?
MP: A great accessory can be used as the main piece of a look or as a compliment to an even more outstanding piece of clothing, depending on the type of effect you want to create.
AM: In addition to outfitting people, you have also brought your luxury brand to cars, yachts, and private jets. Can we expect to see you collaborating with hotels or other areas that are in need of your signature luxury?
MP: I love creating, so I am very open to new areas where I can add my signature and contribute to making this world a little more beautiful and enjoyable for people.
AM: When you are not designing, how do you take time for yourself and what would we find you doing?
MP: Well, in some way I am always designing, but I spend most my free time with my family. I have two children and a wonderful wife. So spending time with them and my close circle of friends brings me lots of joy.
AM: Who have you yet to work with that is on your list to in the future?
MP: Michael Jordan, David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Angelina Jolie, Elon Musk, to name a few.
PHOTOS COURTESY | MATTEO PERRIN
Read more form the Feb Issue and see Bespoke by Design in mag.
