Jeffrey Costello and Robert Tagliapietra
Apart from their signature "Look" and fresh spin on women's fashion, design duo Costello Tagliapetera share more than a tendency towards plaid and a love of their bulldog Sam. For the two CFDA veterans and award-winning designers, inspiration came by way of their respective grandmothers (both of whom worked for couturier Norman Norell) and grandfathers (from whom came the model of 'dressed up' khakis and plaid). In 1994, a night out at the Sound Factory led to a decade long partnership. Starting with creating custom pieces for clients like Bruce Springsteen, NIN and Madonna, the pair eventually made a pivotal move towards ready-to-wear. In 2003, the Brooklyn based designers created a 12-piece capsule collection for Vogue, which landed an editorial feature in March 2004. Costello Tagliapietra presented their first runway show 6 months later (Sept. 2004) and officially launched the CT label in 2005 with looks made from weightless, wrinkleproof Italian knit jersey. Since then, the success of the brand is evidenced by multiple awards and capsule collaborations, most recently with lifestyle brand Uniqlo. Keep reading for an informative Q&A on success, shared style and special spots...
