Interview With Dimitrios Panagiotopoulos Of DIMITRI

Before the show, the team was invited behind the catwalk to meet the designer for an exclusive interview.

Tell us about your current collection. Where did you get the inspiration for the designs?

I drew inspiration from the mythology and history of Greece, my homeland. I took these cultural aspects and converted them into exciting and contemporary designs. The DIMITRI S/S 2017 collection is characterised by artful dresses, light kaftans and delicate blouses and pants that celebrate the female form. The style is cool and bright, conveying a touch of glamor and elegance. I create looks for women whose style is the embodiment of self-confidence and who have no desire to conform.

The colour palette is more subdued than in recent years, with the elegance of white well in the foreground. This gives the designs a clear, simple and contemporary look. For me, personally, white suggests lightness, purity and perfection - qualities that also describe my new collection. The pure appearance is, however, cleverly broken here and there by soft pastel shades and golden details. Flowing silk, soft chiffon and crocheted lace are the main materials used in my upcoming spring / summer collection. Complemented with glamorous accessories and delicate jewellery, these designs create a unique look that leaves a lasting impression.

The highlights of the collection include the swimwear and the men's collection.

What do you like most about being a professional fashion designer?

I love to create clothes and love having the opportunity to work in the fashion business. Even as a child I wanted to be a fashion designer, so for me it's a dream come true!

What advice would you give to aspiring designers?

Work hard and be open to all inspiration!

What is the most important lesson you have learned in the fashion business?

Never give up, concentrate on your work, and work harder than anyone else.

How do you define beauty?

Beauty is a capacity possessed by a person or object that gives aesthetic pleasure and deep satisfaction via the senses. This might result from a shape or a colour, an expressive design or something else, such as the personality.

What historical fashion movement is your personal favourite?

Definitely the civilisation of ancient Greece, which is distinctly noticeable even in my new collection.

If the DIMITRI brand could be encapsulated in a painting, what would it be?

I can’t decide. I have no picture in mind that could represent my brand. I think I would need to paint it myself because nobody knows me better than myself.

What challenges do you face in the fashion industry today?

The fashion industry itself is a constant challenge. There’s not enough time between collections, as two collections a year are no longer enough. The personal struggle to be good enough for the industry. The constant expansion of the product range to include leather goods, home-wear, men's collections, beauty series and more.

Do you have plans for the future that you’d like to share with us?

I want to present my collections during Milan Fashion Week, expand my menswear collection and many others. So many plans!

Thank you very much for the interview!