Stefan Vella
Journal
Stefan Vella, a Maltese fashion designer, made the move to Amsterdam in 2014 to pursue fashion design studies at the AMFI. His creative vision amalgamates the finest aspects from two distinct worlds: the meticulous attention to form inspired by northern European design and the vibrant essence and passion characteristic of the South.
In his Denim Gallery design, Stefan delves into the concept of entrapment within reality. Drawing inspiration from rope binding techniques utilized in bondage, he aims to evoke a sensation of submission. Additionally, he incorporates the imagery of candle wax to symbolize the gradual accumulation of layers that envelop and conceal what lies beneath.
Presently, Stefan serves as a designer at Calvin Klein, contributing within the Knits team. His role involves co-designing lightweight and heavyweight seasonal knits for men, along with creating graphic styles for both genders. This encompasses adapting seasonal concepts, assembling trend research boards, procuring materials, exploring graphic techniques and trims, and overseeing the development of samples from initial prototypes to salesman samples.
Starting from 2023, Stefan has commenced an apprenticeship in the sweater category. This involves shadowing the sweater designer and actively contributing to the development of essential sweater styles for men.
We were fortunate to conduct an interview with him immediately following the culmination of the Denim Gallery project.
How did you find yourself in collaborating with Tonello?
I was in my third year of the fashion design bachelor’s program at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute when I got involved in the Denim Minor, a unique semester where students across three disciplines—design, branding, and management—collaborate to devise a sub-brand for a renowned denim label. Guido Kerssens, my tutor, approached me to join the project. Initially, I hesitated due to the hefty workload at AMFI. However, in hindsight, I’m grateful I accepted the opportunity.
Working alongside Tonello was an incredibly positive experience. The team’s extensive knowledge and expertise empowered designers like me to push the boundaries of creativity. Witnessing how my concept was flawlessly translated with meticulous attention to sustainability in denim finishing was remarkable. It was a truly exceptional and unparalleled experience.
What did the Denim Gallery experience bring you from a working point of view?
The most remarkable aspect of the denim gallery’s brief was encapsulated in three liberating words: “creativity knows no limits.” For a designer, these words are profoundly empowering, considering that creativity in the fashion industry is often restrained by various factors—commercial viability, brand alignment, production costs, and more. Moreover, it was quite intimidating to submit a concept and relinquish complete control over its interpretation and execution.
Nevertheless, the process offered an unparalleled sense of liberty for self-expression. It provided a unique opportunity to witness how another individual interpreted my perspective, fostering an environment of unrestricted creative exploration.
Can you tell us what happened to you from both professional and personal point of view in these three years?
The absolute highlight of these past three years undoubtedly remains my cum laude graduation from AMFI. It was incredibly validating to witness the successful culmination of four intense and challenging years of hard work. Following this milestone, I had the privilege of showcasing my collection on behalf of AMFI at London Graduate Fashion Week.
Since my graduation, I’ve embarked on a freelance journey in Amsterdam, offering both technical expertise and creative support to esteemed designers such as Bas Kosters and Berend Brus. Additionally, I seized the opportunity to craft performance attire for Szymon Adamczak’s captivating show “An Ongoing Song” at the Amsterdam Fringe Festival. Moreover, I’ve had the pleasure of designing stage outfits for talented musicians Kiri Mioki and Ariah Lester.
What is your position today? What are your doing now?
Lately, I’ve expanded my clientele to include PVH (Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger), providing 3D virtual prototyping support through Stitch Design Lab, PVH’s 3D Prototyping sister company
How do you imagine your personal and professional future? Do you have any upcoming project?
My ultimate aim is to solidify my position as a fashion professional, particularly focusing on 3D design and virtual prototyping. I firmly believe this avenue represents the future and a more sustainable direction for the fashion industry.
My upcoming project involves a collaboration with MOAM, a creative agency nestled in Amsterdam, and Hortus Botanicus, the city’s botanical gardens. I’m tasked with crafting multiwearable garments for a fashion installation rooted in sustainability. These garments will be digitally developed and created using fabric sourced from dead stock, graciously provided by C&A.
