INVESTING IN QUALITY
30TH ANNIVERSARY SERIES
Established in 1994 in Antwerp, Belgium, after graduating from Royal Academy of Fine Arts. Stephan Schneider’s work is rooted in the profound design history of his native city. The appeal for Schneider’s garments are realized in the keen attention paid to his fabric choices, patterns and silhouettes. Collections are produced in Belgium, where pieces are cut by hand and time can be spent on the finest finishing. There is a timelessness and wearability to every single aspect of Stephan Schneider’s garments. Schneider also currently teaches at Universität der Künste, Berlin, he’s taken over for the position from esteemed British designer and professor Vivienne Westwood.
When was the brand founded?
I started my own collection immediately after graduating in 1994 from The Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, where I have been based ever since.
Why did you start designing clothing?
When I was 16 I became fascinated by British youth cultures and the connection between music and fashion. I was never influenced by couture or the glamorous aspects of clothing but felt a strong impact to define your individuality by the way you dress.
How do you define quality?
It’s a combination of passion and continuation.
Who is your favourite author or musician?
Well, the last concert ticket I bought was for Catherine Ringer, the singer from ‘Les Rita Mitsouko’ one of my big influences.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
Luckily, I inherited the house of my grandmother in the German countryside. During gardening I become fully charged.
What's your favourite part of the design process?
The design process is like a jigsaw puzzle: When fabric design, 3D pattern study and the functionality of the garments come together it’s such a satisfying feeling. The best compliment is when I see my garments worn!
What’s special about the production of your brand?
First of all I never considered my work as a brand. I don’t have an investor and work fully independently with a small team. I approach all aspects of my work, the design as well as the production and business with the same human aspects as humor, curiosity and vanity. All fabrics and garments are produced locally at small family businesses. The personal relationship to my makers is immensely important to me.
