CHRISTOS DOVAS
FGI Member
Portrait Courtesy : Dimitrios Vorris
Growing up in Patras, Greece, Christos Dovas was destined for a life in fashion. As the son of a master shoe designer, he spent his childhood apprenticing to his father, learning the intricacies of creating exquisite footwear (specializing in Evening Shoes.) “I know who made Cinderella’s tiny pair of red velvet, pearl-encrusted, high-heeled mules: My father! I know because I was next to him all my life, apprenticing with him,” Christos Dovas reminisces. He recalls every detail of the craftsmanship: cutting the lace, placing it with the silver lining, and shaping it over the wooden form, all by hand. “I saw him making the fire for the engraved iron frame and when hot to put it over the golden tape and push it down on the leather for his signature to show. I was the one to deliver and to get the tip! And now, I am here! School after school, idea upon idea, and sweat upon sweat toiling for my passion to become real.”
As a teenager, Christos Dovas expanded his expertise to fabrics and styling, creatively enhancing women’s appeal. This later on led to the launch of his own ready-to-wear line in his boutique. Seeking to broaden his horizons, Christos Dovas earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. His focus on evening wear, coupled with studies in Art History and Theatrical Costume Design, earned him an internship at the Costume Department of the Metropolitan Opera.
Shortly after graduation, Christos Dovas established his eponymous company in New York City, where he continues to create innovative designs with impeccable execution. His work is often compared to sculptures and paintings, naturally enhancing a woman’s inner beauty. Christos Dovas respects and embraces the purity of form, function, and composition, harmoniously bringing to life a world of imagination, beauty, and luxury.
Q and A with FGI President and CEO, Maryanne Grisz
What city were you born in?
Patras
What is your star sign?
Capricorn
What were you obsessed with when you were a child?
Architectural design, Art objects, Clothes, Shoes
What do you value most in a friendship?
Loyalty
What’s your proudest moment?
My proudest moment was opening my first showroom in New York City. It represented the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and passion. Seeing my designs showcased in the heart of the fashion world was incredibly fulfilling and marked a significant milestone in my career.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is bringing a brand-new concept to life. There’s nothing more exhilarating than transforming a fresh idea into a tangible, wearable piece of art. Watching a design evolve from a sketch into a stunning creation that empowers and inspires is truly magical.
What’s your biggest fear?
…. is to live without dignity. Maintaining integrity and staying true to my values is paramount in both my personal and professional life. Dignity is the foundation upon which I build my work and my relationships, and losing that would mean losing a core part of who I am.
What’s the best meal you’ve ever eaten?
The best meal I’ve ever eaten was fresh grilled fish. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity and purity of flavors in a perfectly grilled fish, especially when it’s fresh from the sea. It’s a culinary experience that brings me back to my roots and reminds me of the beauty of uncomplicated, high-quality ingredients.
What’s next for you in your career?
Next in my career is the exciting expansion of my new cosmetics line and further growth of my fashion brand. I’m eager to bring innovative beauty products to a wider audience while continuing to push the boundaries of fashion design, creating pieces that inspire and empower.
What’s the last thing that made you laugh out loud?
I usually smirk
Who or what in your life brings you the most joy?
The ocean brings me the most joy. Its vastness and tranquility inspire me, providing a sense of peace and endless creativity. The ocean’s beauty and power remind me of the boundless possibilities in life and in my work.
How do you spend your day, or what does an ordinary day look like for you?
An ordinary day for me is a blend of work, design, and planning. I start my day by diving into my work, whether it’s meetings, or Whether it’s through my designs, collaborations, or personal endeavors, I’m committed to spreading positivity and creating beauty wherever I go.
What approach would you take differently if you had to build a business from scratch today?my approach would remain the same. I believe in the foundation of hard work, dedication, and staying true to my creative vision. These principles have guided my journey and would continue to do so, ensuring authenticity and passion drive every aspect of my business
What is your favorite quote of all time, and why?
“Excellence is never an accident” by Aristotle. High intention, sincere effort, intelligent execution are part of design process
What book/s will you recommend that everyone should read once in their lives?
Constantine P. Cavafy
How do you maintain a work-life balance?
As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned the importance of making more time for friends and personal life. Experience has taught me that nurturing relationships and taking time for myself are essential for overall well-being and creativity.
What are the biggest challenges you faced in your career and how did you handle them?
Delivered what I promised
What is the best advice someone ever gave you?
My Mom told me, to be true to myself and to others
What is the best advice someone ever gave you?
Keep your head down and don’t get distracted by all the noise.
Who inspires you the most and why?
My parents who worked endlessly with love to each other
What’s the next thing you’re going to do in life?
The next thing I’m going to do in life is to prioritize staying healthy and positive while continuing to work towards achieving more beauty in the world around me. Whether it’s through my designs, collaborations, or personal endeavors, I’m committed to spreading positivity and creating beauty wherever I go.
