Inside the World of Sara Cavazza Facchini, Creative Director of GENNY
- Nada Armanious
A dynamic fusion of modeling, sociology, and cultural heritage shapes the vision of designer Sara Cavazza Facchini, whose career began on the runway and evolved into a quest to empower women through fashion. With a rich background in both the art and psychology of style, she views fashion as more than aesthetics—it’s a language that speaks to who we are, where we come from, and how we live.
Your modeling career started at a young age. How did those early experiences shape your understanding of fashion and aesthetics?
Starting in the fashion industry as a model gave me an insider’s perspective on the relationship between clothing and the body, as well as the power of self-expression through style. It was a unique opportunity to observe the process of bringing designs to life, which has profoundly influenced my appreciation for form, balance, and the essence of elegance in every piece.
You have a rich background in sociology and communication. How do these fields inform your approach to fashion and design?
Sociology and Communications taught me to approach fashion with empathy and understanding. Fashion is ultimately a language; it communicates who we are, where we come from, and sometimes even what we dream of. This background has allowed me to design with a sensitivity to the diverse roles women play in society, creating pieces that resonate with both their aesthetic preferences and their daily lives.
You’ve mentioned that you want to bring fashion closer to women, especially working women. How does this collection cater to the modern woman’s needs in both style and functionality?
This collection is designed for the woman who navigates multiple roles with grace. By blending the dreaminess of feminine aesthetics with practical structures, such as the lightweight yet versatile suits and the corset-detailed dresses, I’ve created pieces that move with her throughout the day. For example, the crumpled organza suit and striped cotton pajama suits are sophisticated yet comfortable, allowing her to embrace elegance without compromising functionality.
As a working mother of two, how do you personally balance creativity with practicality in your own wardrobe, and how does that influence your designs?
Being a mother of two, I understand the need for clothing that feels as beautiful as it is effortless. My wardrobe—and thus my designs—prioritizes versatility. I seek to create garments that carry me from morning meetings to evening gatherings with ease. This perspective shapes my approach at GENNY, where each piece is crafted to empower women with beauty and practicality, so they can transition seamlessly throughout their busy lives.
Were there any specific inspirations or experiences from the Middle East that shaped this collection?
Yes, absolutely. The colors in this collection are an homage to the Middle East’s vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage—hues like bougainvillea, jade flower green, and forget-me-not draw from natural beauty and traditional art forms. The sense of opulence and detailing, such as the embroidered flowers and pearl accents, are inspired by Middle Eastern artistry.
Jasmine Tookes is the new face of Genny’s FW24 campaign. How does her presence align with the evolving vision of the quintessential “Genny woman”?
Jasmine embodies the strength, elegance, and multicultural spirit of the GENNY woman. She is confident, sophisticated, and effortlessly stylish—qualities that resonate with our brand’s vision. Her presence reflects the modern woman who is grounded yet adventurous, a perfect match for GENNY as we continue to evolve our brand with an emphasis on contemporary femininity.
What emerging trends in the region did you consider while designing this collection?
I’ve observed an increased interest in designs that are both luxurious, yet wearable. This collection reflects that with pieces like the satin tuxedo with a sleeveless jacket and the intricately adorned corsets that add glamour to everyday elegance. There’s also a desire for cultural resonance, which we honored through symbolic motifs, fabrics, and details inspired by both European and Middle Eastern artistry.
What are your future plans for Genny in the Middle East, and how do you envision the brand evolving in response to the region’s fashion scene and cultural dynamics?
Our vision for GENNY in the Middle East is to continue building strong relationships with our clients, offering pieces that reflect their unique culture while bringing Italian craftsmanship into the mix. I envision GENNY becoming a bridge between Italian elegance and the region’s rich cultural heritage, growing alongside the evolving fashion landscape.
I hope to leave a legacy of timeless elegance that celebrates and empowers women globally. By honoring the strength and grace of women from diverse backgrounds, I aim to create a space in fashion that’s inclusive and celebrates the power of cultural fusion. I want GENNY to be known for its dedication to quality, beauty, and empowering women to express their multifaceted identities through our collections.