MARIO FUGNITTO - CRAFTED VISION

Interview by QP STAFF WRITER

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the celebrated Canadian fashion designer, Mario Fugnitto , at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel . Known for his stunning designs and collaborations with models from the legendary Sports Illustrated , Fugnitto has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of fashion. Over coffee and the warm Californian sunshine, we delved into his creative journey, entrepreneurial spirit, and aspirations for the future.

Mario, thank you for joining us. How has your experience been in Los Angeles so far?

Thank you for this opportunity! LA so far has been full of opportunities. Portia at POP has been so supportive with the transition into the LA clientele.

Tell us about your early days in fashion design. What sparked your initial interest?

Originally, shopping with my mother for her events that she would drag me out dress shopping for locally sparked my interest. Fashion design as a career really started off between careers as a professional dancer and creative. Designing for the NBA Raptors Dance Pak "WE THE NORTH" branding was really the reason why I bought a sewing machine. I knew I could design and told my friend who was on the team to let me produce the costumes. I used the deposit to purchase my first sewing machine.

Your bodices have received a lot of acclaim. What inspired you to focus on this particular garment?

April fittings for May carpets. We had some pivots, which ended up with me producing all three carpet looks. Having a little themed story moment with a wet look into a form towel, finishing with an Oroton metal gown with a rhinestone micro bikini detail. It was very surreal attending the events, fitting Lauren on-site, and seeing it walk the carpet.

What was the first piece you designed that made you feel you had decided that design was the right path for you?

I think the bodices have sparked interest in my clients with the structure and materials I use. Most of my bodices are wet form leather; the technique used to form the leather was intriguing once I realized it can be manipulated into a new shape.

How did your collaboration with Sports Illustrated come to be, and what has that experience been like?

Lauren Chan , one of the models for the 2023 and 2024 swimsuit edition, asked back in November 2023 to produce a red carpet look (it was online and she is a huge supporter of Canadian talent). March came around with

During COVID, I had taken a picture of a metal-printed corset I produced on my friend and muse Haley McPherson . The reception to the whole production was very supportive, indicating that others enjoyed our art.

Can you walk us through your typical design process from concept to completion?

I’m self-taught. Most of my garments come from a specific inspirational moment. Sometimes it could be from a film to a textile manipulation concept. I start with the story that I want to share with my clients. The story comes from the textiles I choose; sometimes it’s evident in a large-scale print on the gown. Each garment is unique and has its own process.

What do you think sets Canadian fashion apart from other fashion capitals?

The Canadian fashion industry is probably one of the smallest in the world for having cities like Toronto (a huge hub for pop culture in films and music). The opportunities are limited, which forces designers to be incredibly innovative and resourceful. The sense of community and support among designers is also something unique. We have a blend of multicultural influences that bring diverse perspectives to our fashion.

How do you stay creatively inspired amidst the fast pace of the fashion industry?

Staying creatively inspired requires me to continuously seek new experiences and sources of inspiration. Traveling, art exhibitions, and nature are significant sources for me. I also keep an eye on technological advancements in textiles and garment construction, which often sparks new ideas.

Can you share a story of a memorable challenge you faced with a design project and how you overcame it?

One memorable challenge was creating a gown for a high-profile client with a very tight deadline. The fabric we initially chose was delayed in shipping, which left us scrambling. We had to pivot quickly, choosing a different fabric and redesigning parts of the gown to fit the new material. It was a stressful process, but seeing the client’s reaction to the finished piece made it all worth it..

What significance do you find in seeing celebrities and models wear your designs?

Seeing celebrities and models wear my designs is incredibly validating. It signifies that my work is appreciated and recognized on a larger scale. It also helps in reaching a broader audience and elevating the brand’s visibility.

What were some pivotal moments in your career that shaped your journey as a designer?

Designing for the NBA Raptors Dance Pak was a pivotal moment, as it was my first significant project. Another was my collaboration with Lauren Chan for Sports Illustrated , which opened doors to more high-profile opportunities. Lastly, the positive reception of my metal-printed corset during COVID reaffirmed my decision to pursue fashion design seriously.

What advice would you give to young designers who aspire to gain international recognition?

My advice would be to stay true to your unique vision and style. Don’t be afraid to take risks and push boundaries. Network as much as possible and seek mentorship from established designers. Building a strong online presence can also help in gaining international recognition.

How do you balance preserving your unique design voice while also appealing to global markets?

Balancing my unique design voice with global appeal involves understanding and integrating current trends without compromising my core aesthetic. I ensure that my designs tell a story and evoke emotion, which resonates universally. Flexibility and adaptability are key, but authenticity is what ultimately sets you apart.

What elements do you consider essential when creating a new collection?

When creating a new collection, the narrative is essential. Each piece should contribute to the overall story. Quality and innovation in fabric choice and construction techniques are also crucial. I consider the wearability and functionality of the garments to ensure they meet the practical needs of my clients.

Lastly, with your brand gaining traction internationally, what are your biggest aspirations for the future, particularly here in Los Angeles?

My biggest aspirations for the future include expanding my brand’s presence in Los Angeles and establishing a flagship store here. I also aim to collaborate with more celebrities and influencers to increase visibility. Long-term, I want to develop a sustainable line that combines high fashion with eco-friendly practices, making a positive impact on the industry.