Sofia Corneskog, a couture designer based out of Sweden, believes party and formal dresses should be worn for more than that one special occasion.
According to her website, she designs clothes to be combined with other items in the customer’s wardrobe to create unexpected outfits and color combinations.
Her designs range from custom designed bridal and party gowns to more casual, skirts, trousers and shirts. All her designs have a classic Corneskog flare, with bold colors mixed with timeless and romantic tulle, organza, and lace fabrics.
Her hand-stitched, dreamy designs deserve to be taken off the closet hanger more than once. And if you listen to her fashion philosophy, you’ll find a little extra space in your everyday wardrobe just for that.
“When you fall in love with your clothes, they will last longer,” Corneskog wrote on her website.
How did you first become involved in fashion and design?
My interest in creativity has always been a part of me. My mother is very artistic and had a great interest in various forms of creation. She used to sew a lot, and I got the opportunity to try it out, so my interest in sewing developed at a very young age. My interest in fashion and design came about during my teenage years when I realized that I could sew the garments I wanted to wear.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I would describe my design aesthetic as “clean” and “simple,” with a touch of playfulness. I'm also drawn to the contrast between the delicate and the raw, the beautiful and the cool, all at the same time.
Who do you mainly design for?
I mainly design for women who dare to take up space and be noticed.
What designers had the biggest influence on you?
I draw inspiration from a wide range of designers, such as Vivienne Westwood, Stella McCartney, and fashion icon Iris Apfel. Generally, I'm inspired by women who dare to be themselves, who stick to their design language, and who show that it's never too late to fulfill your dreams.
How does French couture influence your designs?
French couture influences my designs through the tailored and custom-made aspect. The craftsmanship involved, where each garment is made to order and unique, tailored to fit one's body shape.
How do you keep sustainability at the forefront of your designs?
I prioritize sustainability in my designs primarily by creating garments on demand. This eliminates waste and the need for inventory. Additionally, I use fabrics from suppliers who have some form of sustainability certification. It's not easy to find such suppliers, but I try my best.
What is your creative process?
My creative process is always with me, and I find inspiration from life in general, both the harsh and the soft aspects. Many designers get ideas and sketch them out. I had a mentor once who encouraged me to experiment in the creative process, and that's usually how I approach it. I can be inspired by a beautiful fabric and then experiment until I achieve the desired end result, similar to painting a picture. If it doesn't turn out as intended, I make adjustments until I create the design I envision.
How do you find a balance between your own aesthetic and the design that a customer commissions?
Finding a balance between my own aesthetic and a customer's commission is something I struggle with. However, I no longer accept clients who want me to create something they have designed themselves. I want to work based on my design language and put my name on a design I can stand behind. Of course, customers can still provide their preferences and wishes.
Do you mainly receive commissions for bridal or party dresses?
Currently, I would say it's about a fifty-fifty split between bridal and party dress commissions. A couple of years ago, the majority of clients were brides, but now there are as many people seeking party dresses.
What would you say is the main difference between your bridal designs and party dresses, besides the colors used?
The main difference between my bridal designs and party dresses, besides the colors used, isn't significant in my opinion. Perhaps I allow myself to be a bit more adventurous with a party dress. Otherwise, I start with my design language, which is based on a clean and stylish expression with a hint of playfulness.
Do you think there could be more crossover in the future between your bridal and party dress designs?
I hope there will be more crossover between my bridal and party dress designs in the future! When I created the bridal collection for 2023, I designed some garments to be versatile enough to be worn as party dresses as well, which expands their usability significantly.
