Back to Black

For so many designers who've cut their teeth with the deities of fashion, the path to individuation can be a bitch. Truth be told, learning under the auspices of Giorgio Armani (Armani Prive, to be specific) is nothing short of a dream come true. But after five years working on the haute couture collection, Australian designer Angelo Katsapis knew what to do. "It was time for me to create a little micro reality," he says. "One based on quality, integrity, and human kindness."

True to his word, Katsapis debuted his 11-piece, mostly black collection this spring. The sum of pieces was no mistake either—the designer chose the number "11" for its symbolic ties to new beginnings, balance, and the dignity he is trying to achieve through his work. And lucky for us, all of this is reflected in the clothes, a mix of extremely elegant blouses, trim high-waisted bottoms, and jersey gowns that compliment the female form in a modern way.

More importantly, Katsapis's vision is spot on for 20-somethings and 40-somethings alike. His sheer black silk blouse with a high-waist pencil skirt or an easy mini-dress with plunging back are ageless pieces no self-affirmed fashion lover could resist. Here, his high-end roots are evident—Katsapis favors rich cashmeres and also silks but with slightly more sheen and a "crunchier nature." Despite these great heights, don't expect any of the foam and froth of couture. "What I'm doing now isn't based on an industry formula," he says. "It's solely about a beautiful product that is kind to women." Now, that's rich.

Australian designer Angelo Katsapis strikes it rich with his debut collection.