milan fashion week | memories with amalie gassmann

full look. Prada

Photographer and emerging filmmaker Amalie Gassmann is a true global citizen. Born in San Francisco, raised in Paris and educated at a university in upstate New York, she brings an interational perspective to both her work and her observations on life. Gassmann recently attended Milan Fashion Week; Schön! caught up with the talent to hear her thoughts on the week’s events.

This fashion season is coming at a very unsettling time in the world. How did you feel about the mood on the ground as you explored the fashion week?

I was excited to arrive in Milan, a city I love — but as the week started, concern grew regarding current events. Not to be overlooked, everyone including myself, finding ways to process and move through each day respectfully. Definitely a time for reflection about important issues and at the same time support the creativity in the industry I love.

You have an international history and upbringing. How do you think that impacts the way you view the fashion world?

Being tri-cultural informs the way I view fashion, through a lens of curiosity and openness. I am drawn to the ever-evolving stages of fashion.

What were some of your other takeaways from this fashion week?

I was beyond honoured to attend the Prada, Gucci and Philosophy shows. I was excited to see beautifully constructed midi skirts worn with a simple white tank top at Prada — my look moving forward for sure! Gucci always hits the mark with their collaborations and no different this season with Adidas, mixing sportswear elements and signature codes. The Philosophy show opened with a live performance followed by elegant silhouettes with very cool crystal net elements and a few subtle pops of colour.

full looks. Prada

full look. Prada

opposite
full look. Prada

You grew up with art. Do you remember the first art piece (fashion or otherwise) that really touched or moved you?

In terms of fashion, I was deeply moved when I had the opportunity to intern over several years at the Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent Foundation archives in Paris. It was amazing for me to see the original drawings and genius of Mr. Saint Laurent and the history of the house.

With regards to art I remember visiting the Lalannes out in the country and discovering their world in their garden, house and studios. It was an early memory, to witness how artists live and what a creative life looks like. This inspired me to explore a creative life of my own!

On that topic, you’re a multi-talented creative. Are there any areas of your interest that you’re excited to explore further this year?

This year I will further develop my moving image practice, and I am looking forward to sharing what I have been working on. I am also pursuing my photography and am in post production for a few recent shoots. Additionally I am exploring digital fashion and the NFT space — stay tuned, more to follow!

What sparked your interest in film?

Film above everything has always been my passion and drive to create. I am drawn to the history and its authors, the writing process, the world building, cinematography, capturing moments of everyday life and collaborations.

How do you see your film experience bleed into your other, non-film creative projects?

For me my film experience informs composition in all other creative forms. I try to always have a story and clear intention behind my projects.

What are you looking forward to right now?

I am looking forward to taking a breather and starting pre-production on my next short film!