Showing in Paris, Yigal Azrouel's Autumn/Winter 2011 collection aims to produce the illusion of layering by using signature linear silhouettes and combinations of rich textures. Distinct elements like reverse construction combined with unique stitching details on knitwear add dimension with a sophisticated earthy colour palette, including Coal, Iron and Ash with accents of Indigo and Mulberry. Precise tailoring paired with the effect of artistic layering is conveyed with a modern sense of style and sensibility.

Dazed Digital: You have never had any formal training, how did you to teach yourself the things you know?
Yigal Azrouel: When I was in the army I would sketch in the tents... it was a form of escape for me. Growing up I also loving styling all of my sisters and my mother."

DD: What are the themes in your womenswear collections?
Yigal Azrouel: I always reinterpret what I do every season, but for me I always keep my collections looking strong, feminine and modern.

DD: Why did you decide to show in Paris?
Yigal Azrouel: I decided to show in Paris because I feel my Men's style lends itself to a more European aesthetic, not to mention I feel building the brand awareness in Europe is very important.

DD: What was the inspiration behind the new men's collection? Please see collection notes.
Yigal Azrouel: The Yigal Azrouël Fall 2011 collection conceptualizes the illusion of layering by using signature linear silhouettes and rich textural combinations. Distinct compositional elements like reverse construction combined with unique stitching details offer depth and dimension with a sophisticated coolness. Knitwear functions as outerwear presented in an earthy color palette, like Coal, Iron and Ash with accents of Indigo and Mulberry. Precise tailoring coupled with the effect of artistic layering is conveyed in a downtown modern sense of style and sensibility.

DD: Tell us about Cut25?
Yigal Azrouel: Cut25 is my new contemporary brand concept for a more progressive and youthful Yigal Azrouël woman. Cut25 embodies the signature Yigal Azrouël aesthetic with my draping techniques and iconic pieces like my leather bombers, and for Fall 2011 we are adding scarves to the collection. Cut25 has really developed into a comprehensive sportswear collection at very affordable price.

DD: Who do you admire?
Yigal Azrouel: Alaia

DD: Did you find it difficult to cross-over from mens to womenswear and which is your favorite?
Yigal Azrouel: No, not at all. I actually feel that I get a balance of influence and direction designing both collections - they are both inspirational to me.

See all the exclusive coverage from Menswear AW11>>