Interview by Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis

(IG: @vassiliosvitsilogiannis)

Takis Giannetos and Giannetos House stand as a dynamic force in contemporary fashion, blending bold creativity with refined craftsmanship. Known for the distinctive aesthetic, he brings together modern silhouettes and timeless elegance, creating pieces that resonate with confidence and individuality. His work reflects a deep understanding of form, texture and movement, often drawing inspiration from art, culture and the ever-evolving spirit of life. Through meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Giannetos has cultivated a signature style that speaks to a new generation of fashion enthusiasts. His designs not only dress the body but also express identity, attitude and a fearless approach to personal style.

How did your father’s family business influence your path in the world of fashion?
The Giannetos House was founded in 1907, so for me, the family business was not simply an influence; it was my natural environment. Representing the fourth generation of this tradition, I grew up learning the art of bespoke tailoring from its very foundations. My path in fashion was almost predetermined in terms of my love for clothing, but the real challenge was to take this profound heritage and evolve it within the contemporary era.

What is the most important lesson you learned from your family’s tradition in clothing design?
The most valuable lesson is the obsession with detail and the value of handcrafted creation, heritage craftsmanship. I learned that a garment is not merely fabric; it is architecture on the body. Respect for every single stitch and absolute attention to quality are non-negotiable principles that have been passed down from generation to generation.

How would you describe the evolution of your career so far?
I would describe it as a bridge between tradition and modern expression. I began by taking the helm of our historic house as CEO and Creative Director, but I didn’t stop there. My career expanded into cinema, leading the Costume & Wardrobe Department for major Greek and international productions. It is a continuous evolution that combines classic elegance with the demands of contemporary storytelling.

Where do you draw inspiration for the designs you create?
Cinema and art play a huge role in my creative process. Through my work as a Costume Designer, I have learned to study characters, eras, and atmospheres. I draw inspiration from iconic figures of the big screen and the golden age of men’s tailoring, translating that timeless elegance into the present. My goal is to create garments that ‘tell a story’ and bring a cinematic aura to everyday life.

What materials do you prefer to use and why are they important to your design philosophy?
I focus on the most premium and natural materials, such as high-end fabrics required for bespoke suits. Fine fabrics, exceptional wool, cashmere and silk, are the tailor’s canvas. They are essential for achieving the perfect fit and timelessness, which are the core pillars of the Giannetos House philosophy.

Can you tell us about some well-known personalities you have dressed and what that means to you?
It is a great honor to see your creations chosen by leading personalities from very different fields. On one hand, we have handled wardrobe curation for Prime Ministers and Presidents of the Republic, which requires absolute respect for protocol, timelessness and the dignity of the office. At the same time, in the fields of art and music, I have dressed global legends such as the renowned composer Desmond Child.

A particularly important chapter is my work as a Costume Designer, collaborating on the international Apple TV+ series Tehran, the film Adults in the Room by the iconic director Costa Gavras, and major productions such as My Beloved Smyrna and Yparho. Dressing people with such influence, whether they shape history in politics and music or embody characters on the silver screen, is the greatest validation. It proves that the Greek high tailoring of our house can stand proudly at the highest international level.

How did your studies contribute to your professional development and personal style?
My greatest ‘school’ was the family atelier itself. That is where I learned the secrets of pattern-making and tailoring. However, constant practice, studying international trends and integrating technology helped me broaden my horizons. This allowed me to merge the strict discipline of classical tailoring with the modern demands of lifestyle and cinema.

Is there a particular piece or collection you consider the signature of your work?
The signature piece of our house is undoubtedly the high-end bespoke suit. What makes it unique is not only its fit, literally sculpted on the client’s body, but also the sense of confidence and strength it offers the moment it is worn.

How do you see the relationship between your family’s tradition and the innovation you bring as a contemporary designer?
It is a relationship of absolute balance. I often say that I bridge the world of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Just as I give the same importance to detail when holding a sewing needle, I do when holding a drone controller as an Aerial Cinematographer. For me, innovation is about speed, a contemporary perspective and adapting to the present, while respectfully preserving the quality of the past.

What are your plans or dreams regarding new collections and the expansion of your work?
My goal is to continue evolving the Giannetos brand, keeping it at the forefront of bespoke tailoring in Greece. At the same time, I aim to expand my work as a Costume Designer into even more international film productions. I want our house to become synonymous with global elegance and for Greek tailoring to travel across the world through the silver screen.