The Whimsical World Of American Designer : CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

Christian Siriano, renowned for his vibrant hues, ethereal fabrics, and fantastical flair, catapulted to stardom as the victor of Project Runway Season 4 in 2007. What the designer has achieved in the 17 years since is truly remarkable. Not only is he the youngest to ever grace Crain’s “40 Under 40” list, but Siriano has also curated his eponymous collection for 16 years, a perennial highlight at New York Fashion Week and showcased in both New York and Paris. From magical evening gowns to chic sportswear, his dreamy creations are complemented by intricately detailed shoes and accessories. Siriano’s designs adorn the most esteemed red carpets, worn by luminaries like Angelina Jolie, Emily Blunt, Michelle Obama, Kate Upton, and Kim Kardashian. He has also forged impactful collaborations across the categories of style, home decor, and beauty with industry leaders such as Victoria’s Secret, Disney, and Puma. In 2021, the designer’s creative vision extended to include comprehensive interior design services for both residential and commercial spaces. However, amidst countless accolades, humility remains at the core of Siriano's ethos. He is a grounded dreamer, grateful for every opportunity to shape the dynamic world of fashion.

“I really try to give my customers something new and exciting each season, but still something that feels right for the moment in fashion,” Siriano shares. “Never overly trend-driven, but more focused on what I believe is beautiful at the time. It’s hard to choose a favorite; so many are my favorites. Such as Billy Porter’s tuxedo gown at the Oscars, something we made for the Met Gala or the Emmys. We have made so many pieces for so many wonderful people, and it’s an honor to get to do that every day.” Siriano distinguishes himself through his meticulous approach, a trait that remains steadfast despite the continued growth of his business. He attributes this mindset to his years studying under the esteemed Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen in London, where he gleaned invaluable insights into teamwork and attention to detail. “I think what I learned most from working with these brands was that a small but mighty team can accomplish so much more together,” Siriano reflects. “Keeping the people around you very focused and inspired helps to create the best pieces. We still create patterns by hand, and I sketch every single look that we have made over the last 16 years. I think both of those houses kept that classical way of creating; it’s not over computerized, and it feels more real this way.” Browsing through Siriano’s online collections or attending one of his runway shows unveils a world of shimmering fabrics, meticulous embellishments, and historical inspirations with a contemporary twist. Each Christian Siriano collection is built upon impeccable structure, reflecting Siriano’s passion for sculptural forms and vintage aesthetics from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. This design philosophy seamlessly extends to Siriano Interiors, now entering its third year of success.

“Interior design has always been a passion of mine, so it was a natural transition from fashion into interiors,” Siriano adds. “I started creating unique furniture pieces, like the Lula chair, which was the very first piece of furniture we made. It originally was just for my own home.” The designer underscores the significance of blending styles to maintain interest and inspiration in his interior design projects. Siriano’s extensive background in fashion and partnerships with global mills over the past 16 years have cultivated a profound expertise in fabrication—enabling him to enrich spaces with a very unique movement and feeling. “Sometimes the furniture is even inspired by pieces of clothing we create,” Siriano says. “I love the idea of being able to have these really cool silhouettes in your closet and your living room. I like to say, ‘I would love you to wear a Siriano dress while sitting in your Siriano designed home.’ A favorite project of mine was a Soho duplex. I absolutely love mixing vintage with my custom furniture pieces that are more geometric and modern, and I think this project was the perfect balance of that. This probably reflects my style in the interior world the most by celebrating things from the past that can be modern for today.”

And celebrate he does, treasuring each chance to share in the lives of his clients and those who wear his creations, whether it be a dazzling red carpet affair or the making of new memories in a welcoming space. “Honestly I’m just lucky that we are still moving and growing and keeping the lights on,” Siriano laughs. “They both are hard businesses to be successful at and some days are harder than others, but I still love creating and creating is the best part of the job. It also feels really wonderful when someone wears a piece and it changes their life for the better. Maybe it was for a special event, wedding, or new job. Whatever it may be, clothes are a part of memories and I think a warm, beautiful home can have the same feeling— which is so great!”

Learn more at www.christiansiriano.com and www.sirianointeriors.com.