Wigald: Gosh! I’m so excited that we are doing this interview as we have been working together extensively in the 90s for“RTL Samstag Nacht”, the German version of “Saturday Night Live” - me in front of the camera, you as one of the dressers. Nowadays you are well-known asinitiator, designer and CEO of “Amant Maitresse”. Many people have their own brands, but just a few reveal such a clear attitude in terms of taste as you do. When we worked together, I came to know you as a very industrious, but quite modest person. Honestly, did you have any premonitions about your future? Or even something like a plan?
Despina: Well, I didn’t have an exact plan, but I think I’ve got an inner animal that is pushing me constantly to accept new challenges. The idea for “Amant Maitresse” came into being three years ago, the company was founded one year later. And I am very happy that not only womenlike my stuff!
Wigald: That’s no wonder taken into consideration the fervour with which you praise the fair sex. On the other hand many of your creations also have a mischievous aspect, e.g. the hooped socks going with the dress and the remarkable range of beamy shoulder pads.
Despina: Well spotted! I have never taken fashion that seriously; above all for me it’s about having fun. And a touch of irony just suits my clothes well.
Wigald: In the meantime on the red carpets of German TV awards about two thirds of all dresses are tailored by Amant Maitresse. O.K., I am exaggerating, but not too much. Is it generally possible to increase this enormous success? And if so, in which direction would you like to conduct your brand on a long-term basis? Men’s fashion? Shoes? Perfume?
Despina: There is certainly a huge potential of development. Amant Maitresse still is in its infancy. The red carpet was conquered quickly because I know my way around there. My piece of homework is rather something else: How can I persuade the retail traders that it’s a good idea to order my clothes for their shops? It’s just economic facts that count; this business is hard as nails. I’m also interested in the new buying manners of the women: Today they rather prefer to order online, they love to try on everything in their living-rooms together with their friends, having a glass of champagne, deciding really calmly. The sorted-out pieces are sent back, without any stress. Somehow I like this online-shopping-thing, maybe the next step is an online shop with incorporated style consultation.
Wigald: Thinking back at “RTL Samstag Nacht” – Did you learn anything there making life easier in the world of fashion?
Despina: “RTL Samstag Nacht” was one of the most wonderful productions I have worked for. It was a pioneer’s job, but without the pressure you have to bear working for television nowadays. We had enough time to try and elaborate ideas until we were truly satisfied. This was one reason for the tremendous success of our show. And at “Amant Maitresse” I’m trying to realize the same mentality.
Wigald: Well, I keep my fingers crossed –for you, but also for me: Hopefully one day I will be reincarnated as a woman so that I can wear your dresses completely uninhibited!
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