Cruising the aisles of the Pool Tradeshow during MAGIC, it was hard to keep track of where I was. Some booths made me feel an east coast, some a west coast feeling, others showed a more European flare. With anyone who is anyone in the fashion world gathered in one space to show their lines, you are so concerned about making sure you see everyone that rarely do you circle around to the same booth more than once. This was my case with Danny Nappi and Nappi Clothing. Nappi’s palette and vibe was similar to what I like, which first caught my eye. Then when I struck up conversation with the Salt Lake City designer, discussing his vision for the brand, I got the feeling Nappi was more than just a clothing line but really a lifestyle. I asked Nappi what he wants people to think when they wear his clothes and he says proudly, “I want them to think that when they see their reflection in a window or door that they look amazing - that the fit really flatters their look. I also want them to think about how comfortable they feel in the clothing a great fit with great fabrics makes for a great look.”
Nappi has devoted his entire career to perfecting the art of comfort in denim and it was clear that comfort - both fashionably and entrepreneurial - is something Nappi holds close. It’s evident in his reasoning for setting up shop in his hometown of Salt versus New York or Los Angeles. “I opened a store here because I am from Salt Lake. I don't like it when designers begin to get a little success and leave their home town and move to LA or New York turning their back on the very place that made them who they are. I still believe we can make Salt Lake a strong fashion market. The thing about Utah is there is a lot of talent here and people with strong values that makes doing business here a little easier.”
With that comfort level in focus, I wanted to find out more about what Nappi decided to showcase. I asked what goes through his mind when he sits down to sketch out ideas. “I usually wait for something to inspire me and at that point I will sit down and began to sketch I usually carry my little sketch book around with me and when the inspiration comes I promptly sketch it out.”
And about the inspiration behind Nappi’s line, he will tell you, “Everyday life, people, places, things. And often times I am hit with a thought that comes to my mind as if I am tuned into some subconscious station that sends out the next big fashion idea through some invisible wave length.” Now with the 2010 winter behind and awaiting the spring weather, I wanted to know what Nappi had planned for this year. “We have set out to be the best in t-shirts and jeans because I am a t-shirt and jeans kind of guy. I have spent my entire fashion career perfecting the fit and feel of denim and here in Utah we are known for out denim and I want now to take that to the world. When you think of jeans and a t-shirt you think of Nappi.”