Making Debonair Consonant

With rigour and passion for excellence, this designer is perfecting the fashion closet, consistently.

- Tejashee Kashyap

Genetically gifted with an eye for precise detail and a flourishing 20 year design career with razor-sharp staples, Neil Barett and his collections have been able to retain their timelessness and create a modern spin in the wardrobe. Weaving a contemporary tale of finesse with streamlined uniforms, the Milanbased independent designer understands the desires of the new generation that scream for a minimal yet modish language of fashion. We speak to designer to understand what goes behind his instantly recognisable patterns, enthusiastic designs and quality construction. Edited excerpts…

From the launch of your eponymous brand in 2002, you have embarked on an extensive journey in the fashion world. How did it all begin at first?

I have been exposed to fashion from an early age. It has always run in my family’s blood. My grandfather and great-grandfather were military tailors, providing for the navy. I was intrigued by the discipline, tactility and accuracy of military tailoring. However, back then, it was hard to tell if fashion would be my career.

Two decades is a long duration of being in the fashion industry. How have you managed to still put out such fresh ideas and styles?