photography by  FERNANDO COLON

 

SPIRIT & FLESH: What were your inspirations and references for this collection?

KATI STERN: My inspiration is always Europe – mostly Italy – the colors and landscapes are what always translate into my gowns.

Define the perfect woman/man for this collection?

Any woman who feels confident about herself is a Venexiana woman. There is no age group. We want everyone look and feel fantastic!

What fabric did you use for this collection?

This collection has more beaded and sequined fabric than any other collection. A lot of silk was also used. This season we also introduced a grouping of silk and fiber-mix jersey which is very exciting.

What was the biggest challenge working on it?

Time! I am not a person who likes to wait or do things last minute. I like to have everything neat and ready to go. Getting the collection designed and organized on time to allow for a seamless show prep and show is always my main objective and the biggest challenge.

What is the main objective for this collection?

Pleasing my clientele and trying to reach a wider spectrum of customers is always the objective. With the jersey group this season, the aim was to offer a selection of more affordable gowns without compromising the Venexiana quality and aesthetic.

How did you balance art and commerce preparing for the show?

After you do one or two shows it becomes almost automatic. We’ve been in business for eight years, but as always, we are always striving to keep the glamour of Venexiana alive.

What did you learn about yourself working on this collection?

With this collection I thoroughly enjoyed myself – as always! Creating is always a thrill and it always renews the feeling that every season is a new challenge which brings me great excitement.

What was the brightest moment while working on this collection?

Every moment is bright. Whenever I find a fabric I like and take it to the workroom and begin draping and designing and reworking the design – all of these are equally as bright to me. I find bright moments in every challenge.

Who was the main support / collaborator for this collection?

My husband is always very supporting and as usual is a great sounding board. He’s always there for me. The textile mills that I work are also hugely important. They are always excited to see me and excited to create my visions for each collection which help me in my endeavors a lot.

Describe your emotions seeing your collection come to life?

The thrill is beyond description!

Whats next for Kati?

Directly following the show this Spring/Summer 2105 season, I begin designing for Fall/Winter 2015 season. It’s all work that I enjoy and look forward to doing it!