Designer Dialogues: A Moment in Milan with Manuel Essl
“It felt surreal seeing my designs in that environment — and yet, it also felt right. Like a long-awaited step.”
Text: VIONNE Magazine | Photos: Mihael Vuzem
Models: Ann-Kathrin, Caroline, Jessica (1st Place Models) | Looks: Manuel Essl Design
When fashion meets authenticity, stories are born — and during GX Fashion Week in Milan, one such story unfolded with the Austrian designer Manuel Essl and his label Manuel Essl Design. Known for his expressive silhouettes, bold details, and deeply personal approach to high fashion, Essl made his Milan debut with his latest collection: "Floral Elixir."
This moment marked a significant milestone, not just for the designer, but for the essence of his brand — a label that has steadily grown from Austria’s creative heart into a name whispered across international runways.
A Runway Fairytale, Milan Edition
The fashion capital welcomed Essl’s designs with warmth and curiosity. Models from the renowned Austrian agency 1st Place Models graced the catwalk, wearing key looks from "Floral Elixir," a collection that seamlessly merged vibrant floral patterns, luxurious textures, and the designer’s signature edge. Think wide-leg silhouettes, structured tailoring, delicate lace, and a palette that danced between sunny yellows, ice blues, and neon accents.
To visually capture this moment, fashion photographer Mihael Vuzem shot the collection across central Milan — from the iconic Galleria to intimate backstreets that framed the designs with contrast and class. The editorial, now featured in VIONNE Magazine, celebrates the beauty of handcrafted fashion worn with pride, power, and emotion.
Designer Dialogues: The Interview
To reflect on the experience and explore his design philosophy, we sat down with Manuel Essl to talk about Milan, emotion in fashion, and the importance of staying true to your voice as a creator.
VIONNE: Manuel, you’ve just shown your collection “Floral Elixir” at Milan Fashion Week. How did it feel stepping into such an iconic fashion capital for the first time?
Manuel Essl: It was overwhelming in the best possible way. Milan has this raw, energetic pulse that you can’t prepare for. It felt surreal seeing my designs in that environment — and yet, it also felt right. Like a long-awaited step.
V: Your collections often balance between softness and statement. What was the vision behind “Floral Elixir”?
ME: “Floral Elixir” is all about contrast — soft textures, bold colors, romantic silhouettes with sharp edges. I wanted to celebrate femininity and strength in equal measure. It’s a very emotional collection, one that feels alive.
V: Can you describe a moment from this Milan experience that stuck with you?
ME: Definitely backstage. The adrenaline, the models getting dressed, last-minute adjustments — and then silence right before the music starts. That moment, when everything comes together, is electric.
V: You often speak about fashion as a form of dialogue. What story do you want your brand to tell?
ME: That individuality matters. That being seen — truly seen — is powerful. Manuel Essl Design is about more than fashion. It’s about creating pieces that let people express who they are, unapologetically.
V: Finally, what advice would you give to young designers who dream of reaching international stages like Milan?
ME: Start with your own voice. Don’t try to mimic what you think people want — create from truth. It might take longer, but it will always be more impactful. And never forget: your path doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.
A New Chapter Begins
With Milan now under his belt, Manuel Essl is continuing his momentum — with his Vienna store serving as a home base for new designs, a place for real connection, and an ever-expanding audience both local and global. As “Floral Elixir” enters wardrobes and editorials, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning.
Follow @manuelessldesign
Photography: @mihaelvuzem | Models: @1stplacemodels
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