Tell us about your creative journey and the achievements you hold closest to your heart.
My creative journey did not begin with a business plan, but with a deep need to create. From an early age, I was fascinated by the relationship between an object and the emotions it can evoke. Over time, that need evolved into a personal language of expression and eventually into a brand with a distinct identity.
Looking back, I do not only value collaborations or professional recognition. What I cherish most are the moments when people embraced my work and made it part of their lives. To me, that is the greatest achievement—creating something that endures, acquires emotional value, and accompanies someone through their most meaningful moments.
I am also proud to have remained true to my principles. In an industry that is constantly changing, preserving your authenticity while continuing to evolve is perhaps the greatest success of all.
How did the idea of creating your own brand first come about? What values does it represent, and how has it evolved over time?
The Angelos Tsakiris brand was born from the desire to create something that expressed me completely, without limitations. I wanted to build a world where clothing is not merely something you wear, but an experience.
The brand is rooted in authenticity, attention to detail, and respect for the creative process. I am particularly drawn to the concept of craftsmanship—not only as a technique, but as a mindset. Over the years, the brand has evolved with greater clarity and maturity while remaining true to its essence.
You have developed a distinctive signature style defined by craftsmanship and understated luxury. How did you achieve that?
A signature style is not something that appears overnight; it is built through time, experimentation, and above all, consistency. From the beginning, I wanted to establish a clear aesthetic foundation free from excess, where garments would express character through their construction and details.
I have always been interested in the balance between simplicity and individuality—creating pieces that feel quietly luxurious without needing to announce themselves. Craftsmanship plays a defining role in this process. It is not simply a technical choice, but a way of thinking. Every piece goes through a more personal and considered journey. Through years of collections and continuous experimentation, that aesthetic became increasingly refined and recognisable. In many ways, my signature style emerged naturally from who I am as a designer and what I wish to express.
Is success in fashion a matter of talent and inspiration, or is it something that can be learned? What is the secret to elevating a designer, and how do you approach each new collection?
I believe it is a combination of both. Instinct and inspiration are essential, but without consistency and hard work, nothing of lasting value can be built. If there is a secret, it lies in an unwavering commitment to detail and in the ability to evolve without losing sight of your identity.
Every collection begins with a feeling, an emotion, or a source of inspiration—not with a trend. The creative process starts from something deeply personal, which then gradually takes shape through design.
What have been the brightest moments of your journey, and what remains non-negotiable for you?
The most rewarding moments are seeing my designs come to life beyond the boutique—in people’s everyday lives, at special occasions, and in meaningful moments. Another milestone, and one I had envisioned for a long time, was the opening of my first boutique in the heart of Athens, in Kolonaki. Seeing that vision become reality has brought me immense joy and represents an important chapter in my journey.
Of course, every new collection brings its own excitement. Witnessing the audience’s reaction and emotional connection to the work is always incredibly moving.
What remains non-negotiable for me is staying true to my aesthetic vision, even when that means taking a slower path. Authenticity will always matter more than speed.
Having already built an impressive career over the years, which pieces or elements of your work do you consider the most iconic?
The most iconic pieces are those with a clear identity—pieces that are instantly recognizable as part of the brand. They are usually designs that rely on structure, materials, and meticulous detailing rather than complexity for its own sake.
Among the most significant are the pieces from my very first collection, Alliberament, inspired by the work of Joan Miró. Each garment was hand-painted, embodying from the very beginning the values that continue to define my creative vision today.
How have you incorporated craftsmanship into your work, and what value does it bring to your creations?
For me, craftsmanship is at the very core of every collection—it is the foundation of the creative process. It is not simply a technique; it is a way of dedicating time, care, and intention to each piece. This process gives the work a sense of authenticity that cannot be replicated through industrial production. Every garment acquires its own character, identity, and soul.
What story does the new collection tell, and what does it bring to your design language?
My new Spring/Summer 2026 collection, From Earth to Sun, embraces a philosophy of minimalism and effortless elegance for women seeking something distinctive.
There is a conscious desire to remove the unnecessary and focus on the essentials: form, texture, and the movement of fabric on the body. These are versatile pieces designed to transition seamlessly from day to evening through thoughtful styling, offering both simplicity and sophistication.
You have built notable collaborations throughout your career. Tell us about them, how they have evolved over time, and what may come next.
For me, collaborations are meaningful when they are built on mutual respect and a shared vision. Some of these partnerships have grown over time into deeper relationships based on trust, which I value greatly.
One such collaboration is with Callista, where I began designing the brand’s ready-to-wear collections. Another particularly rewarding experience was my collaboration with the Athens Epidaurus Festival and Katerina Evangelatos, where I taught a group of children the fundamentals of fashion design, costume history, and creative expression.
Looking ahead, I remain open to collaborations that allow for genuine creative exchange and offer opportunities to explore new perspectives.
Who is your audience, and in what direction would you ideally like to expand it?
My audience consists of women who appreciate detail, timelessness, and individuality. They are not looking for the obvious; they seek garments with character, purpose, and a philosophy behind them.
Ideally, I would like to expand internationally while maintaining the personal connection that has always been central to the brand. Reaching a broader audience would bring new perspectives and allow the brand to engage in a richer cultural dialogue without losing its essence.
Fashion versus Design: what place do they hold in your heart, and how do they interact?
For me, they are not opposites. They are two sides of the same coin. Fashion carries emotion, while design provides structure. It is at the intersection of the two that creation begins to take shape, transforming an idea into something tangible, meaningful, and enduring.
What would be a dream project for you?
A dream project would be the opportunity to take on the creative direction of an established fashion house abroad. I would love to work within a larger framework, where I could merge my own aesthetic vision with the history, heritage, and DNA of an existing brand.
Tell us a story you will never forget.
Without a doubt, the beginning of my own brand. It remains one of the most meaningful and beautiful chapters of my life—a moment that changed everything and continues to inspire me every day.
When you enter a space, what is the first thing you notice, and why?
The light and the sense of calm. If a space has the right energy, you feel it immediately.
What is the last thing you bought—or would like to buy?
It is usually something simple rather than extravagant—an object with a clean and timeless aesthetic. A few days ago, for example, I purchased two beautiful ceramic vases.
The fashion designer closest to your heart?
I do not have just one. I am inspired by designers who possess a strong sense of identity and consistency. One designer whose work I deeply admire is Dries Van Noten.
An exhibition you will never forget?
The exhibition we presented at the end of the workshop with the children from the Athens Epidaurus Festival. It was a truly special and memorable experience for me.
Three places you always return to, and why?
Places that offer tranquility, nature, and beautiful natural light. These are the environments where I find balance. I need spaces like these to clear my mind and reconnect with my creativity.
One of them is my hometown, near Soufli in Evros. Whenever I am there, I feel a profound sense of freedom and inspiration. Perhaps it is because I grew up surrounded by a culture deeply connected to textiles, silk, and craftsmanship. Those influences have found their way into my work and continue to shape the way I approach design.
Something people may not know about you?
I am more interested in the process than the final result.
What is your definition of beauty?
Beauty is the balance between simplicity and truth.
What do you consider authentic today?
Authenticity is anything that does not seek to impress, but instead seeks to express something genuine.
If you were to design something for TheAuthentics.gr, what would it be?
It would be a piece that combines purity of form with handcrafted detail—something timeless, understated, and enduring. A design that does not need to shout to be noticed, but remains memorable through its authenticity. In many ways, it would reflect the values that define TheAuthentics itself.
Angelos Tsakiris, Loukianou 14 Str. Athens, 10675
