Where do you normally travel during the summer season and how has the global pandemic affected your plans?

I normally spend summer between Italy and Greece.  I’ve been very lucky because Italy is now one of the safest countries to be in and I’ve been able to go to my beloved Amalfi coast and spend time in Capri. I will go to Greece in August which I love for its incredible sunsets and wonderful sea.

What have you learned from this challenging time we are currently in?

I truly believe, as J.F. Kennedy once said, that crisis means opportunity and it is in periods of crisis that we as human beings are most creative as we have no other choice but to try and survive. Isolation has offered us time and, personally for me, it has been a great time to reflect on my life. It has made me realise that sometimes we push too much, run too fast and miss moments and important things that are right in front of us. Finding ourselves alone can be good, allowing us the space to reboot. Isolation has also made me aware of how much I love and appreciate my work, and how being in contact with people makes me happy. I’m much more grateful for everything – everyday life, health, and freedom are gifts. I hope people will learn from this year and be kinder and more appreciative of everything. We need to think more about others and what’s best for our community and not just for ourselves.

How do you think our lifestyle will change after this pandemic? And how could the fashion system change?

The fashion system was antiquated and broken. It desperately needed change and not many were taking steps in the right direction. Covid-19 has accelerated the need for a change and we are finally moving in the right direction. We were creating too much product, producing too much waste and running too fast. Fast fashion is unsustainable and needs to change; on the other hand, luxury takes time and it’s good that people are realising that producing less better-quality products, at our own rhythm, are the future. People need to buy less mass-produced products that last less than a year, and buy better quality ones that last longer.

What made you decide on Capri as your latest store opening and do you have any future openings planned globally?

Capri has always been an island that has fascinated me. It’s an island with an incredible energy. Capri and the Amalfi Coast put a smile on my face as I just love being in a setting that is all about the sun, the sea, great food and wonderful people. The idea of Aquazzura was born in Capri. I wanted a brand that represented Italy, and when I was in Capri, at the Terrace JK Place hotel, I looked out to sea and saw the amazing blue and thought that “Aquazzura” (meaning blue water in Italian), would be the perfect name for my brand. That’s why I’m very close to the place. Future plans will include the opening of a boutique in Venice – a magical city suspended in time.

The interiors of your stores are sensational – have you always loved interiors and do you think you will ever position Aquazzura as a lifestyle brand?

I’ve always loved interior design, and I think if I hadn’t worked in fashion, I would have become an interior designer. I love creating new and different atmospheres in the interiors and always try to express different moods and vibes. I am lucky enough to be living in a creative space in which the world of Aquazzura is expanding. The avenues we are considering include jewellery, bags, accessories and, finally, a men’s collection. I am hoping to launch these new categories by the end of the year, including an Aquazzura Casa Collection, to be presented at the next Milano Design Week.

Your events are a visual feast – where does your inspiration come from?

I’ve always been a maximalist when it comes to events. I believe that if you’re going to do something, do it well or don’t do it at all. I like to make my events memorable, but also fun, sophisticated and colourful. The inspiration can start from a print, a theme or the colours of flowers. Themes are always a good idea!