Susan Di Staulo

Living or dead, what movie star would you most like to see in your designs? Why?

Well, my all time favorite is grace Kelly. There are a few designs I sketched with her in mind. I believe she was the most beautiful and elegant.

In twenty years, when a fashion design student opens their history book what will it say in the caption under your designs?

What a HUGE pain in the ass this one was, but she rocked hard.

What is the hottest trend you currently see in fashion design?

I think I'm seeing a MOD 1960s thing going on, but it could be just me. I'm obsessed with BIBA, the department store in London in the 1960s-early 70s and all of the swingin' 60s.

When you are selecting the right outfit for yourself, or someone else, what is the most important thing you consider?

FIT. Does it fit you correctly?? HOW DOES THE PERSON WEARING IT FEEL IN IT. Function. Can you do whatever it is you need to do in the garment?? So, fit, feel and function.

What jewelry or accessories do you think are most complimenting to dresses like yours?

Earrings. I love earrings and I love big -- HUGE crucifixes.

What is your best advice for dressing sexy, but classy?

Don't smoke!! Stop chewing that gum!! Everything they taught you in Catholic school. Be a gracious person --think Jackie O-- don't swear, use a good vocabulary, and speak in French when ya can't think of what to say.

Where do you see fashion going this year?

Seriously, my hope is, as always that fashion leads one towards self realization, authenticity, and originality. That it enables someone to be who/what/how she/he is, to not get in the way of the person, but to enhance the person. The most important part of clothing is the person wearing the garment, there is NOTHING AT ALL more stylish then a sharp brain engaging in abstract thought, a good heart, and an ability to see, as I call it. The 'Christ' in people, and not the 'crust'. Wow-- looks like religion has a big influence on me...hmmm...never thought of that.