In a recent interview with Colin McDowell at Selfridges, Roberto Cavalli talked about the rarity of straight male fashion designers, and why his love of women has helped make him a better designer.

RC: “In my planet, fashion, I’m the only straight man.”
CM: “There’s a few.”
RC: “Who?”
CM: “Ralph Lauren, he’s straight.”
RC: “Are you sure?”

Cavalli may have thought he was the only straight male womenswear designer before this interview took place, but truly believes his love of women has been an advantage when it comes to designing womenswear.

CM: “So, does being straight make you a better designer?”
RC: “Yes, maybe. Because I think of how I would like to have a woman close to me, in that moment. The femininity, the softness. Maybe, yes, anyway I’m happy as I am.”

But does Roberto have any gay tendancies at all?

CM: “I think there must be a little bit of gayness in you, given the way you design for men.”
RC: “I take that as a compliment. My first male fan was Lenny Kravitz, and I thought because of him, I have to design for men. In the evening every man looks the same. Like penguins. Women have a special dress for that event, men: the same tuxedo. I prefer to create for women. I think that women are more intelligent than men; that’s why men have to be stronger. I really admire a woman for her intelligence, her personality, beauty is not enough.”

Courtesy of The Cut.