Lea Cannistrà, the visionary force behind a refined slow fashion movement, seamlessly bridges the gap between high-end tailoring and sustainable design. Her journey from journalism to fashion has redefined modern businesswear, empowering ambitious women to dress with confidence, elegance, and conscience.
Lea, what or who inspired you to transition from journalism to the world of fashion and create your slow fashion brand? What has been the most memorable moment in your career as a designer?
What truly inspired me to move into the field of slow fashion and launch my own brand was observing the brilliant and ambitious women I had the privilege of being surrounded by throughout my career. I noticed that many of them struggled to find clothing that matched their aspirations—particularly suits and professional attire that were well-tailored, high-quality, stylish, and comfortable.
I realised there was a genuine gap in the market for garments that allow women to assert themselves while remaining true to their individual style and femininity. This difficulty in sourcing elegant yet appropriate outfits for a professional setting motivated me to create something different. I wanted to offer options that not only met these criteria but also embodied a commitment to responsible and sustainable consumption.
My slow fashion brand seeks to celebrate the strength and ambition of women by providing them with clothing that supports them on their professional journey, all while respecting the environment. I firmly believe that fashion can be both beautiful and ethical, and this conviction informs every decision I make in the development of my brand.
The most memorable moment in my career was witnessing clients wear my designs during significant events in their professional lives. It brings me immense joy to see them thrive and succeed—and I take great pride in the fact that they choose my creations for such pivotal occasions as project presentations to investors, important interviews, or major conferences. This, ultimately, is why I do what I do: to celebrate the success of others through my work.
You have redefined the role of femininity in business attire and, after participating in Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York, confirmed that you are moving in the right direction. Which trends in business fashion do you consider relevant today, and why?
Consumers today are becoming increasingly discerning, seeking exclusive and distinctive pieces that reflect their individuality. For this reason, I offer customisation and bespoke services. There is also a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the fashion industry. It is therefore essential to embrace sustainable and transparent practices. These evolving trends indicate that the fashion industry is responding to the changing demands of consumers and the pressing challenges posed by environmental concerns.
What advice would you give to women who want to look stylish and confident at work?
First and foremost, posture is key—a woman should stand tall with her shoulders back. She should invest in high-quality, versatile pieces such as tailored blazers, well-fitted trousers, or a structured cape to create a strong presence. Incorporating vibrant colours can help express personality, while accessories—like elegant watches, necklaces, belts, or earrings—can elevate the overall look. A chic pair of heels can also add a touch of sophistication and enhance confidence.
What fabrics and materials do you prefer to use, and why? How do you maintain sustainable and ethical production in your brand?
All the fabrics we use are of premium quality and sourced from Italy, France, and Austria. I have a particular fondness for 100% merino wool. It is exceptionally soft, gentle against the skin, and remarkably durable when properly cared for. Additionally, merino wool is an eco-friendly and biodegradable material. Its outstanding insulating properties make it ideal—retaining warmth in winter while remaining breathable in summer.
Our production is entirely based in Paris, and all our suppliers are located within Europe, including Switzerland, France, Spain, and Italy. This ensures not only the highest quality but also ethical and traceable sourcing and manufacturing.
She isn’t about performance. Tamara doesn’t pretend or play roles. She embodies stillness, softness, and an inner light that doesn’t ask for attention — but stays with you long after.
What does success mean to you in the fashion world, and what goals have you set for yourself in the coming years?
To me, success means that my creations are appreciated and worn by active women who embody the spirit of my target audience.
My goals for the coming years include expanding production to enable the distribution of my collections through major retailers across Europe.
Model: Lea Detchema Cannistra @lea_gemma
Photogrpaher: @_photographerparis
