Carla Sozzani: art, fashion, and the power of creative integrity

Host Danielle Radojcin chats to Carla Sozzani, a revered figurehead in the worlds of art and fashion. Known as a pioneering fashion editor, visionary gallerist, and the founder of 10 Corso Como and the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa, Carla has spent decades shaping the creative landscape.

From her early days as a magazine editor in Milan during the late '60s and '70s to launching Italian Elle in 1987, Carla’s career has always been driven by an unwavering commitment to creative integrity, even when it came at the cost of her own career. Along with her late sister, the legendary Italian Vogue editor Franca Sozzani, she has shaped the lives of some of the most important fashion designers and photographers of the past 50 years, and created some of the most memorable imagery, working with photographers like Paolo Roversi, Peter Lindbergh and Steven Meisel. 

Throughout her career, Carla has been a mentor to independent designers, offering friendship, guidance and resources. She shares heartfelt memories of her great friend, the late Azzedine Alaïa, whom she helped save from bankruptcy, ultimately founding the Alaïa Foundation to preserve his legacy.

In this episode, Carla talks about fashion designers today, from the independent designer she most rates, to her thoughts on incoming Chanel creative director Matthieu Blazy,  as well as discussing what makes print magazines relevant, and why you can't rely on AI to replace individual human creativity. 

Carla is the founder of 10 Corso Como, the groundbreaking concept store she opened in Milan in 1990. Long before spaces like Dover Street Market or Colette existed, 10 Corso Como redefined the shopping experience, becoming a pilgrimage site for fashion lovers worldwide. She is also the founder of Fondazione Sozzani, which aims to support new generations of creative talent. 

Carla’s new book, Carla Sozzani: Art, Life, Fashion by Louise Baring, offers an intimate look at her life and contributions to the worlds of fashion, art, and design.

Resources:

• Carla Sozzani: Art, Life, Fashion by Louise Baring (2024, Thames & Hudson)
• Fondation Azzedine Alaïa
• 10 Corso Como
• Fondazione Sozzani