

Presentation


I’m Nathan Sousa, a 33-year-old Brazilian designer based in Milan, Italy, with a profound passion for fashion that started in Brazil. My career began with a small, vibrant creative team at Neon, where I was inspired by the youthful, fun and colorful energy of the label. Later, I built my own collective brand, which allowed me to experiment and grow as a designer. After earning a master’s degree from Instituto Marangoni and gaining nearly a decade of experience, I worked for seven years as a RTW fashion designer at Roberto Cavalli in Milan, focusing on the luxury market.
Throughout my journey, I’ve developed a holistic approach to fashion design, blending craftsmanship with a philosophical inquiry into fashion’s role in our world. My work is driven by a deep respect for materials and an awareness of consumer behavior, as I believe that fashion holds the power to transform not only our identities but how we interact with the world around us and our communities.
I am a versatile, goal-oriented designer with a strong focus on high-end ready-to-wear, jersey, denim, and leather. My expertise spans material selection, vintage and imagery research, and 3D prototyping. I have successfully led junior designers, managed complex design projects, and collaborated cross-functionally with pattern makers, product development, and merchandising teams.
I am committed to being an active learner and a collaborative team player who thrives in creative and dynamic environments. My goal is to continuously evolve, bringing fresh ideas to the table while maintaining a grounded and sustainable approach to design. Passionate about art, craftsmanship, and culture, I’m excited by the opportunity to work alongside other creative minds in forward-thinking fashion house, where we can inspire each other to push boundaries and create meaningful work.



CAPSULE COLLECTION


The Roberto Cavalli capsule collection for ACT*WEAR dives into sustainable fashion, focusing on the crucial role of circularity. It emphasizes the fashion industry’s relationship with waste and the potential for regeneration through upcycling. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s heritage, Roberto Cavalli was a pioneer in sustainability, sourcing materials like denim and leather from flea markets in the early 1970s. He deconstructed garments to create patchwork masterpieces, debuting at Palazzo Pitti.
However, the concept of circularity faded as fashion trends became more excessive in the 2000s and the company lose these practices.

EVERYTHING ELSE IS CIRCULAR

This collection aims to return to Cavalli's roots, integrating sustainability and upcycling back into the brand's business model. The SWOT analysis reveals strengths such as market innovation and exclusivity, while challenges include production timing and tracking discarded materials. The proposal emphasizes rethinking traditional business models and using modern technologies like AI to reduce waste, pushing the fashion industry toward more circular practice.










Drawing inspiration from the brand’s heritage, I incorporated rouches to form the base, and to increase the volume, I added a soft layer of tulle. This combination of flowing silk and structured elements creates a harmonious balance between fluidity that is a Cavalli's signature design language.









Through extensive draping exercises, I began shaping the silhouette directly on the mannequin. The collection's silhouette is fluid, and I used silk to construct the dress.


The denim capsule collection began with an extensive exploration of the brand’s archives and vintage research. The concept centers around the emotional connection we have with certain objects - especially our “old good denim”that evoke cherished memories and experiences. Denim holds a nostalgic value, representing special moments we never want to forget.
(CHERISH MEMORIES)

With this in mind, I introduced laser-distressed washes, symbolizing the wear and tear of beloved pieces over time. Each garment reflects the idea of "lived-in" denim, embodying the personal stories and unforgettable moments we've experienced while wearing them.
OBJECTS OF AFFECTION





For the archive research, I explored denim pieces from various decades of the brand's history, examining different fits and washes. Each selection brought a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of the timeless quality and emotional connection people often have with well-worn denim.














DENIM DEVELOPMENT



Through extensive draping exercises, I began sha
AI PRINT RESTAURATION





















PERSONAL PROJECTS




















EROTIK CAPSULE



This fashion project centers on the dynamic blend of the rebellion sensuality and body empowerment. Drawing inspiration from underground culture, feminist art, and erotic photography, the collection emphasize body liberation and identity exploration. Connecting Gustave Courbet’s painting with Judy Chicago’s work reveals a deep bond between the depiction of female sensuality and the body’s role in maternity. Courbet’s “L'Origine du Monde” presents the female body in a raw and intimate way, symbolizing the origins of life.

(EMPOWERED

This fashion project centers on the dynamic blend of the rebellion sensuality and body empowerment. Drawing inspiration from underground culture, feminist art, and erotic photography, the collection emphasize body liberation and identity exploration.














THE WARRIOR
The 'warrior' look starts with a simple printed tulle dress, featuring a pattern that highlights the natural curves of the body, playing with transparency and visibility. The corset adds an element of restraint and contrasts with the organic pattern underneath, symbolizing the tension between freedom and control, and how women's bodies are perceived and regulated.










