We’d love to start from the beginning and find out a little more about how Capiaghi Summer began. What lit the match that catapulted CS, and what inspired the name?
Having my own fashion label was always part of the dream—I just didn’t know when or how it would happen. Sometimes I’d even push it aside because it felt so far out of reach.
Then came Chloe. We weren’t in the same friendship group, but we always clicked. Both Leos, always drawn to each other’s energy. After an unforgettable trip to Ibiza, she came to me with the idea, and from that moment, it’s been full steam ahead. You could say the spark was hers, and I was the first person she thought of to help bring it to life.
As for the name, it’s simple—a merging of our surnames: Capiaghi and Summers.
Who do you design for? Is there a “Capiaghi girl,” or is she more of a feeling?
She’s both. I design with a very specific girl in mind—and I’m lucky enough to be her. I think about what she’s missing from her wardrobe, what she can’t find in the current market. But more than anything, I design to make her feel something.
How do you want people to feel when they wear Capiaghi Summer?
Confident. Like all eyes are on them—for the right reasons.
Let’s talk about influence. Are there creatives, past or present, who quietly shape your vision?
I’m obsessed with Emily Quach right now. She’s absolutely killing it with her content and has that ultimate cool-girl energy. I’ve also always loved Emma Chamberlain—her casual, effortless approach to filming has definitely shaped how I show up creatively.
Cowhide is naturally imperfect. How do you interpret those imperfections as part of the design process?
Honestly, it’s one of my favourite things about Drop 1. No two pieces are exactly the same. You’re essentially owning something completely unique, and that individuality is so important to us. Of course, there are a few pieces we pull aside as faulty if they stray too far from the design vision, but for the most part, those natural imperfections are what make each piece special.
I’d love to hear more about the cowhide. Where is it sourced, and what drew you to working with it as a core material?
Our cowhide is sourced from West Java, Bali. We’ve been lucky to work with an incredible partner there who’s delivered quality from day one.
I’ve been drawn to cowhide for years. My Pinterest is full of cowhide belts and bags, but nothing I found ever felt quite right—so I figured, why not make it myself?
What’s something about building this brand that’s surprised you, either creatively or personally?
I used to second-guess a lot during the design process—wondering if my ideas were good enough, or if they’d translate the way I imagined. But through building this brand, I’ve learned to fully trust my creative instincts. Now, when I have a vision, I follow it with confidence.
You’re launching into a world so saturated by fast fashion. Was embracing a slower, more intentional approach always the vision for CS?
Absolutely. Capiaghi Summer was always going to be grounded in individuality and exclusivity, and slow fashion naturally aligns with that. We want each piece to feel personal—not mass-produced.
Where does Capiaghi Summer go next?
Wherever the wind takes us. That’s the beauty of building something from scratch—you make the rules. We’ve got some exciting restocks coming, with new colourways, a collaboration I’m really looking forward to, and a few surprises on the horizon.
Lastly, if your brand had a soundtrack, what would be on it?
A mix of Frank Ocean’s White album for the calm, confident days—and some cool techno beats for the Capiaghi Summer girl’s alter ego, ready to turn heads wherever she goes.
Capiaghi Summer is made for the quintessential It-girl—effortless, confident, and always a step ahead. Born from the foundations of friendship, the brand blends personal connection with a refined, directional edge.
It was a pleasure getting to know more about Capiaghi, and if the brand is anything like Jana herself, we’re in for something truly thoughtful and inspiring.
The cult-favourite Leo Bag returns July 1st at capiaghisummer.com. Jana pairs it with the Ivory Spots Sadie Slip Dress—shop the look now.
Love,
Amelia and the 7th & York Team X