Designer Interview. Yigal Azrouel at Saks in Chicago

It was wonderful meeting up with Yigal Azrouel in Chicago. Luckily, this was not the first time I met the handsome and charming designer. Second City Style first crossed paths and fell in love with him several years ago at a Spring ’10 fashion presentation at Saks Fifth Avenue. I found out that was the only other time he had been to Chicago. Then, I met him prior to his Cut 25 presentation during New York Fashion Week Spring ’12. On this most recent occasion, Yigal Azrouel was in town for a presentation of his Fall ’12 Collection hosted by Saks and CS Magazine at Block 37, at 108 North State Street on Thursday. He told me a little bit about the differences between his Cut 25 collection and his own Yigal Azrouel namesake collection at Saks. Yigal Azrouel: Cut 25 is more colorful, with trendier pieces than my line, with effortless pieces. Actually both lines contain effortless pieces. SCS: I noticed for Fall 2012, some very strong silhouettes and shapes, longer hemlines and pieces that are not as body conscious but skimming the body. Is this a change in a different direction for you? Yigal Azrouel: Not really. I just design what looks good and like to play with proportions and layers, I used leathers and furs and contrasts playing with bold blues and greens. SCS: I love the dark green leather! Yigal Azrouel: (Smiling) The fall line has a rich and explosive look and finish. SCS: I just looked at your Spring 2012 pieces available right here at Saks, and the price points are really quite reasonable for designer pieces. You can charge just about anything! Yigal Azrouel: Yes, well when I design I always keep the customer in mind. I design pieces that customers can buy and will wear! I don’t design a piece that can only be a sample. SCS: Are you ready for the show at Block 37? Yigal Azrouel: Well, we have to go over there now and see. (He looked both calm yet anxious to get things ready for the show.) SCS: This is more personal, but what is the best advice that anyone ever gave you? Yigal Azrouel: It is really to always be focused and be true to yourself. There are always struggles, but without these struggles there would be nothing to learn.

 

– Carol Calacci Read Second City Style’s Fall 12 Yigal Azrouel review here. Photos: Second City Style