Interview with an Italian duo – CO|TE

London Fashion Week 2012 saw the opportunity for a host of Italian labels to display their masterpieces at the Vogue Italia International Fashion showcase. On the grounds of the stunning Italian Cultural Institute, talented and creative designers were able to show off exactly why they have managed to make their mark within the fashion industry. It was here that my love for CO|TE was blossomed.  Tomaso Anfossi and Francesco Ferrai are the dynamic duo behind these beautiful creations; and from the second I met them, I knew they were something special.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

We are two friends who are young, very stubborn and very serious but with a big sense of humour. We ultimately share the same dream and that is why we manage to work so well together.

What have you done to get yourselves into the fashion industry?

We have both always been fascinated by design, not only fashion but also architecture and contemporary art. We both studied fashion design and after graduating we worked for other brands, until the day we decided to create CO|TE.

How did CO|TE start?

We met about 4 years ago in collaboration with another brand; initially it was just a friendship. After some years we decided to create something of our own that could really represent us. When we saw that by working together we were fascinated and amused by the same things, we decided to create CO|TE.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

The inspiration comes from everything that surrounds us, a piece of fabric, an old garment found in our mother’s closet, a snapshot that we took in the park one morning, a geometric shape or an old film. Inspiration is everywhere, and as we are both very curious, we are constantly looking for new ideas.

Take us through a typical day of yours…

Breakfast is done and over with very fast, a visit to the production office, drawing and research, lunch at the toasty cafe, some arguments, driving around to a fabric supplier, watching films or cooking dinner for friends and finally a little sleep!

What are you favourite things to do with your spare time?

Unfortunately we don’t have much of it but when we do…

 Francesco: I like reading mystery books and watching musicals.
Tomaso: I like cooking, visiting contemporary art exhibitions and gardening.

Three things you both couldn’t live without?

Our BlackBerrys, music and humour!

 What do you think every girl should have in their closet?

Our Friday clutch or any of CO|TE ‘s dresses!

Can you tell us what CO|TE is going to feature over the up and coming spring/summer months?

The Balloon Print. It’s a photographic print made by us, which portrays colourful balloons. We wanted a print that expresses joy and colour, like the rest of the collection! We chose colours such as blue, white and orange to create the sophisticated look but effortless at the same time.

Sounds very exciting! Finally, anything else we can look forward to?

We are really looking forward to making CO|TE increasingly more important on the international scene.

Well, we most certainly are too. I think it is fair to say that this lovable team are what make CO|TE truly something exceptional. Combining their fantastic ideas for fashion alongside their delightful personalities, the boys at CO|TE are set for a bright future ahead of them.

The future can only hold success for this label, and we cannot wait to support them every step of the way.

Kellie Griffiths

Have a look at the journey so far by clicking here.