Jennifer Cooper, E! EntertainmentLook on any major red carpet, and you'll instantly recognize a Christian Siriano design. That's because his garments harness a distinct blend of femininity and modernness that all the while draw upon classic silhouettes and timeless aesthetics. In short, his designs are always eye-catching. Which is probably why he's a regular name on many a best dressed list and counts Carrie Underwood, Sarah Hyland and Coco Rocha as big fans.
Now a distinguished CFDA member, we've been rooting for the designer since the beginning. And now, we're catching up with the designer ahead of his New York Fashion Week spring 2016 show, debuting today!
What was your first job?
My first real job was an assistant in a hair salon called Bubbles.
How did you get started in your career?
I knew I loved to make clothes and I loved fashion so I just started to create things on my own. My first custom order was a bridal gown for a friend's wedding. I kept it going by word of mouth.
What is a typical day like for you?
When I arrive at the office, I typically check my email to see what editorial or talent request we've received. After answering emails I'll go into the studio and drape. I normally work with the team to figure out what the next piece is that we'll be creating. It's a puzzle that has to carefully be constructed, a little bit each day. Then we usually have a client fitting and I leave around 7 p.m. on a good day and crash at home with the BF or dinner out with friends.
Tell us about your office décor. When did you last give your office a makeover?
I love interior design and we move items around in the office all the time. I'm always adding to our gallery wall and shopping for new and interesting seating options for our clients. I like our space to feel elegant but simple and feel a bit welcoming and warm. I also let the clothes fill the space and become the focus.
What's the best part about your job?
The best part is that I get to work with such talented people and do what I love every day. I get to create something new and then watch women live their life in something my team created from nothing. It's the best!
Who would be your dream celebrity to dress on the red carpet?
I am a huge fan of Julianne Moore, she is at the top of my list.
Where are your favorite places to sketch new designs?
I sketch the most at home and at night.
What are your biggest sources of design inspiration right now?
It really depends on the day. My inspiration can be fabrics, or a place I want to visit. I also look at a lot of books about different cultures and cities.
What's the one item in your closet that you could never go without?
It's hard to say. I don't get too attached too much, but I have a few bags that I would be very sad to lose.
How has your design aesthetic changed over time?
It changes all the time because the customer changes and she adapts to what is happening with the time. I try to stay true to our signature. But, as a young brand, we are still growing and developing every day and I love that about what we do. Every season I get to try new things.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best advice I have received is to simply stay true to myself and never second guess my decisions.
Who are some of your career heroes?
I look up to any designer that has kept a brand going for such a long time. Brands such as Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Marc Jacobs, Donna Karen and Michael Kors to name a few. Even if I don't always love what they do, I respect what they have built and how they have kept a customer for such a long time.
What's the most daring career risk you've ever taken?
The one I am in right now. Fashion is not for everyone, some days it is a hard and unforgiving business.
Finish the sentences below:
Today for lunch I had… pasta salad.
The first website I log onto every day is… Style.com or Onekingslane.com.
My usual Starbucks order is… I don't drink coffee but I do love their pound cake.
If I wasn't doing this job, I would… be a hairstylist.
My favorite place to visit is… Paris.
List five things that are on your desk right now… my CFDA member certificate, cell phone, sketch book, markers, and fabric swatches.
The book I'm reading right now is… I'm not because I'm sadly too busy.