Russh Magazine

The daughter of a Danish 60s supermodel and a French fashion insider, former model and stylist Vanessa Bruno launched her first collection in 1997. Her mix of urban sophistication and pared-down refinement is championed by fashion’s elite. Stylish and contemporary, with a decidedly feminine aesthetic, Bruno’s clothes transcend trends, becoming well worn favourites.

RUSSH: What are your earliest fashion memories? Were your parents creative?
Vanessa: My mother used to be a fashion model and I remember how she used to dress clearly. My father was in charge of Cacharel and Emmanuelle Khan, so I have been attending fashion shows since I was little, at Dorothée Bis and Sonia Rykiel for example; both my parents had lots of designer friends.

How did you start your own career in fashion?
At first I tried all different areas of fashion to familiarise myself with all its aspects. With these experiences I decided to start as a stylist, first as a freelancer then with my own brand in 1997.

Who are your style icons?
Lauren Hutton in her 40s, Stella Tenant, Kirsten Owen and this season Lou Doillon.

What do you look to for inspiration?
Women and pictures of women, contemporary art pictures and timeless clothes.

How would you describe your personal style?
Stylish but in a simple, unassuming way, always with a touch of Parisian originality.

Why did you choose Lou Doillon for the campaign?
Because she has a natural elegance, a particular grace. On Lou all the clothes really portray the identity that I tried to give them.

What was the theme behind your most recent collection?
My love of interior design was influential. The collection has been designed as a true wardrobe to accompany all the special moments in a woman’s day, a day in which comfort is really important. The look is above all intended to be urban, easy-chic with pure lines that reveal a more designed construction, focused on precise and accomplished cuts.

What is next for you?
Starting from the SS 09 season I have developed a Gold capsule collection which is about 10 pieces in a very sophisticated couture collection.

Do you intend to continue to build the brand and open more stores?
Yes of course, the line is still young – it’s only ten years old!  We have projects going on in China and Saudi Arabia.

Do you see a progression in your work as a designer?
Yes, and I hope the customers can see it too.  I place much more attention on the materials I am using and in the details of the cut.

What is the last thing you bought?
My Arthus-Bertrand chevalière [signet] ring.

On your website you have a compilation CD for sale. A percentage of which goes to reforestation. How did the Plant a Tree CD come about?
To begin with it was just my friends and I talking about our favourite music when we got together in restaurants. After that I decided to make a compilation of my favourite folk songs and donate a part of the sales to the Planète Urgence association, to help with reforestation in the world.

Would you say that you are passionate about the environment and conservation?
It’s not that I am passionate, it is more an extension of myself.  As I was raised in Denmark it is very much a part of our lifestyle to be considerate of the environment around us, though we can always do better.

Are you strongly influenced by music?
Yes it influences me and helps keep me creative. I listen to music almost constantly while working and go often to concerts. I love discovering new artists.

What are you listening to at the moment?
Right now I’m listening to Hugh Coltman, Charlie Winston and Alela Diane.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Be faithful to yourself.

What would you do if you were not a fashion designer?
I would be a film director or a furniture designer.

Describe yourself in three words?
Less is more.

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