Q&A
Designer Jeremy Scott is his own inspiration
Vodka brand CÎROC collaborated with Italian luxury house Moschino for its Spring/Summer 19 collection shown at Milan Fashion Week. Famous faces at the show included Nigeria’s Wizkid and our own celebs, actress Thando Thabethe and rapper Cassper Nyovest. Moschino’s creative director, Jeremy Scott, known for his fun, playful and cheeky designs, started his own label 21 years ago. In addition to Moschino, he collaborates frequently with sportswear brand Adidas. Sunday Times Lifestyle spoke to Scott about his thoughts on Africa, his approach to design, and being his own inspiration.
Describe the CÎROC and Moschino collaboration.
Fun, fun and more fun!
What do you know about South African fashion?
Not much, honestly, as I’ve never been there. I hope to have the opportunity to visit sometime. Both Thando and Cassper said they would take me around when I come.
What does the world think of African fashion?
I can’t speak for the world — I can only speak for myself. I love colourful and bold patterns, which are often seen in African culture — it speaks to my vibrant personality!
How have various African cultures influenced your work?
Growing up, I was always very inspired by African culture, especially ... the Wodaabe, the Karo and the Hima, who all have distinct ways of dressing and adorning themselves, which is so inspiring.
What’s the most interesting thing about Africa to you?
Its diversity, how many cultures there are on one continent! It’s my dream to see and visit all the wonderful places in Africa and experience it first-hand.
How has the fashion industry changed since you started 21 years ago?
The biggest difference would be that the power no longer rests in the hands of just a few people but it is something that is now in everyone’s hands.
What is your approach to design?
I do what I love. I follow my heart to its inspiration and try to capture that in my work.
Who is your muse?
Well this season, was my muse! I took inspiration from old Polaroids I did
Iof myself from when I was 20, experimenting with looks, makeup, hair and personas. Before I had a fashion show to express myself, I was my own canvas to express my ideas and inspirations. So this season it was very meta — meta muse, you could say!
What’s your relationship with social media?
I enjoy Instagram — sharing my work with my fans, seeing what my friends are doing and having that connection with the world. The connectivity we have today is fascinating. It’s mind-boggling, really!
What will 70-year-old Jeremy Scott be doing?
Probably the same thing I’m doing today. I love my work and I plan to do it as long as I enjoy it. If something is not fun then I don’t do it anymore — that’s my rule!
When are you coming to SA?
That’s a good question. Are you inviting me?
‘BEFORE I HAD A FASHION SHOW TO EXPRESS MYSELF, I WAS MY OWN CANVAS TO EXPRESS MY IDEAS’