COURAGEOUSLY COURRÈGES
Since taking the helm of the French house Courrèges as the artistic director, NICOLAS DI FELICE has been winning over the fashion crowd with his bold vision for the brand. Reworking André Courrèges’ classic 1960s futurism motifs and embedding them into modern wardrobe staples, the Belgian designer has continuously shown some of the most relevant (and sexy!) collections during each fashion month. Shortly before the exciting announcement of Di Felice becoming the next guest designer at Jean Paul Gaultier, he spoke to us about earliest fashion memories, uniforms, and day parties.
What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
Cuddles in bed before going to make the best latte in the kitchen, staring at the view…
What is your earliest memory of fashion?
The Grind on MTV, they were giving music and sexy looks; I already loved it as a kid.
Otherwise, Jean Paul Gaultier on the television.
Which designer inspired you the most?
Helmut Lang, Ann Demeulemeester and Rick Owens for the way they wrote their own stories – always staying true to themselves.
Are you a spring/summer person or a fall/winter person?
Ahah definitely a spring/summer person in real life… But love fall/winter for the shows… I love to work on coats and bigger pieces.
What values are the most important for you?
Sincerity and courage.
How would you describe Courrèges in one word?
Geometry.
What is your uniform?
Blue jeans, leather jacket or leather shirt.
What is the first thing you do when you arrive at the office?
I do a little tour to say hello, and then smoke a cigarette and turn on the speaker while waiting for the team to come.
What would be your dream set for presenting a collection one day?
It’s a surprise! I hope to make my dream come true one day ;)
Best way to deal with pressure?
Friends and sport.
Are you a day or night person?
Definitely more of a day person since I have arrived in Paris. Even for parties, I love a day party.
What is your safe space?
My boyfriend, my friends, my home.
What feeds your creativity?
Absolutely everything. To live.
What remains timeless in your eyes?
Simplicity and clarity.
Who or what deserves to be celebrated?
Kindness.
When do you feel relaxed?
When I feel I’m on the right track, when I know everybody is ok around me.
Interview and photography by Hanna Pallot
Introduction by Martin Onufrowicz
Backstages pictures of Courrèges SS24 collection