Random Questions For...Carlos Falchi

Brazilian native Carlos Falchi is famous for his exotic skin bags, which come in sumptuous colors and sensuous shapes.  Falchi originally launched his line of luxe, one-of-a-kind accessories in the ‘70s after a stint as a costume designer for people like Elvis Presley and Mick Jagger, which helps explain the designer’s take-no-prisoners approach toward bold color and OTT embellishment (we mean that as a compliment, not a criticism).

“I love that each skin has their own unique story,” Falchi told us when asked why he opts to work with exotic skins and leather.  “What some would view as imperfections, I consider beautiful traces of history.”

Today, fashion fans who aren’t in a position to spend $4,000 on one of the designer’s signature bags can get their Falchi fix via his new HSN line, dubbed Chi by Falchi, and his just-launched limited edition collection for Target, which is in store through December 27th and riffs on his high-end shapes and materials but at more wallet friendly ($20-$50) prices.

“Every woman deserves a beautiful, unique bag of her own, no matter what the price,” said Falchi of the Target range. “For every bag I design, I make sure to keep that in mind.”

Duly noted.

The Fashion Informer also chatted with the bearded Brazilian about his Ping-Pong obsession, his favorite music and his dream occupation (hi-ho, Silver!).

So, Carlos…

What is your favorite time of day?
Morning. I like to go out into the city in the morning when no one is around so I can appreciate the stillness and colors. I am most creative in the morning. 

What type of music do you listen to while working?
Rock n Roll and Brazilian jazz.

What would you like to be doing if you weren’t a designer?
I'd like to be a Brazilian cowboy.

What is your favorite Thanksgiving memory?
I love special holidays because I am with my family.
 
What is the difference between living in Brazil and America?
I feel at home in both Brazil and America.
 
What would you never be caught dead wearing?
A leisure suit.
 
Tell me about your best friend.
Missy, my wife of 25 years.
 
What’s your favorite mode of transportation?
I love to ride my bike.
 
Favorite sport to watch?  To play?
Soccer and Ping-Pong.

How has New York changed since you first moved here?
New York is ever changing and I have been able to be a part of each new cycle. I have been able to experience every decade from the ‘60s on and it has been an incredible adventure.

What’s your idea of a perfect vacation?
Building castles on the beach and painting.

What freaks you out?
Global warming.

When are you happiest?
When I’m designing.

Stay tuned next week for Random Questions For…Eugenia Kim

   

Photos courtesy Target