Behind the label: Francesco Scognamiglio

Italian designer Francesco Scognamiglio opened his first atelier in 1998, when he was 23. Prior to the launch of his eponymous label, the Pompei native worked with Donatella Versace, an experience he describes as a "fundamental moment in his career". Scognamiglio says his latest collection was inspired by the wide shoulders and cinched waistlines favoured by American women in the 1980s. His fans include Madonna and legendary fashion editor of the International Herald Tribune Suzy Menkes.