by Yalda Zacca
 
During Milan Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2015, AzyaaMode had the pleasure to sit down with Italian designer Elisabetta Franchi to discuss creativity, her thoughts on the Arab region and her passionate fight against animal cruelty. 
 

You are from Bologna, Italy, how is your Italian heritage reflected in your style?
My Italian heritage is reflected in everything I do. It is in my DNA and I try to transmit it into everything I do and in all my creations.
 
The majority of your clientele are Italian but we’ve seen your stores popping up all over the Middle East recently. Is the Arab region an important market for you?
Middle East is really important and represents a huge market for my brand. Moreover, I strongly believe that Arab women are gorgeous: they are extremely feminine but at the same time they are really discreet and really classy.
 
Fashion has clearly always been a passion for you. Though you are not defined by seasonal trends, what is your fashion philosophy?
Never exaggerate! You always have to pay attention not to exaggerate. You need to use limited pieces and choose the accessories properly. Indeed, I consider accessories a very important part of one’s look.
 
Your current SS15 collection has an art-deco inspiration. How do you get inspired for a new collection?
Creativity is something that you can’t buy and that you are born with. I can’t explain how I get inspired because the ideas/inspirations come to me at any moment or situation. At a later stage, my mind elaborates on these initial ideas and then transforms them into creations.
 
You built your career from the ground up what advice do you have for striving designers?
Always believe in your ideas and dreams. Carry on, be tenacious, and never let go!
 
You sell high quality designs at more reasonable prices yet your designs are made in Italy. How do you manage that?
I put a lot of attention into the creation process of all my collections. I always want to be sure that all my items meet the quality standard I want and I check every centimetre of each fabric I use. I never lower my guard.

You have two kids and 5 pets and you are involved in all aspects of your namesake brand, when do you find time for yourself? What do you do to wine down? What is your favorite hobby?
The only moment that I spend alone is when I’m under the shower! Staying with my kids and with my family is what really makes me relax… they are my biggest love.
 
As an animal lover you do not use real fur in your collections and you are active in the campaign against animal cruelty. How do you think you can motivate other designer to get on board?
I always try to set a good example with my work and try to share my thoughts about the importance of being against animal cruelty. I’m not afraid to affirm that whoever provokes pain in animals is not worthy to be described as a man.
 
What are some of your favorite coffee table books?
Unfortunately, I don’t have that much free time to read. I try to keep myself updated with the latest news by reading fashion magazines. I would love to have more time to read but it’s really impossible!
 
What is your typical workday outfit?
Black t-shirt, leggings and black ballerinas.
 
Do you have any signature style elements you wear regularly?
Yes, a coat. I never give up on nice coats.
 
Who do you consider to be your style icon?
Jacqueline Kennedy.
 
Do you have any styling advice for women?
Cover yourself more! Try to show as less as possible. This is the secret to catch a man’s attention. Let their imagination wonder.
 
Do you have a specific perfume you wear or do you change it up regularly?
I don’t have one but three that I really like and often mix! The result is inebriating! I can’t deny the thought that one day I will start an “EF Parfume” line…

What do you have in your handbag?
Everything is possible! Keys, agenda, makeup, medicines, food, battery charges… Everything!