SUSTAINABLE SYMPOSIUM
GAMS NOTE
by Melania Musci
Exploring the playful side of fashion, Gams Note, founded by Alessandro Marchetto in 2021, champions a childlike spirit. The brand, launched by ‘Who is on next’ in 2022, offers seasonless and sustainable collections, produced ethically with upcycled fabrics.
What inspired you to start Gams Note in 2021?
I’ve always been a very shy guy, so clothiprecarity way I’m able to best convey the messages I believe in. I found it very difficult to express myself with words, especprecaritying the pandemic when everything started. It was a very natural process; I contacted some people I knew previously and together we developed the first shirts, which were later reworked and modified until my participation in ‘Who is on next’ in 2022.
Who was your biggest design inspiration during your studies and before launching your brand?
People are my greatest source of inspiration. I’m deeply inspired by the way they present themselves and everything about the individual beyond clothing.
I’m particularly interested in observing adolescence, a time when people still possess a sense of fragility and tenderness that’s almost primal, in stark contrast to what’s to come: adulthood. During my university studies, I began to delve deeper into this theme, which later became a cornerstone of Gams Note. This often features looks that I’d describe as ‘shy and disheveled.’ All of this reflects my introverted personality and my fascination with shy people, whose clothing always intrigues me.
Currently, I’m very impressed by the work of Adrienne Salinger, especially her photographic work ‘Teenager in Their Bedroom’. In this moment of uncertainty due to wars, precarity, and homophobic campaigns fueled by aggressive political ideas, I find the idea of the room and self-governed spaces reassuring. Our room is the space where, in a way, we learn to live, love for the first time, and assert ourselves as thinking and free individuals.
I like leisurewear; I find it erotic, relaxed, and reassuring. I mean, what’s more reassuring than a pair of blue checkered wool trousers that remind you of a blanket? We all want to carry our blanket around with us and feel cuddled.
How do you think your personal identity is reflected in your work?
I believe my personal journey is intrinsically linked to my work. I’m essentially keeping a visual diary. My project has always been a personal diary, a visual record of my life.
Gams Note is also synonymous with deconstruction and reconstruction. In your opinion, which wardrobe item lends itself best to this process?
The brand was founded with a strong emphasis on the shirt. I enjoy experimenting with different cuts, layering, and silhouettes, such as cropped or oversized. Plus, the shirt is the most versatile piece in my wardrobe, regardless of the season.
Your collections are designed with a timeless approach, disregarding traditional seasonal trends. Do you believe this departure from seasonal fashion could revolutionise the industry and promote greater sustainability?
I think so. As I mentioned before, working primarily with shirts, it’s almost natural for me to talk about ‘no seasons’. I pay great attention to the quality of my garments, both for personal taste (because the stitching must always be perfectly straight!), but also because I want my pieces to last over time. My sample collection isn’t very large, which allows me, season after season, to carefully curate my garments one by one together with my production team in the Veneto region. My goal is to provide customers with a high-quality, durable product. By introducing a new product into the market and the world (and consequently another potential waste), it’s important that it’s produced with the best intentions, in order to minimise its impact on our already exhausted environment. This is my top priority.
Do you think ‘conscious dressing’ is limiting in everyday life or challenges our creativity by pushing us to mix a few pieces in new ways?
Being mindful of what we wear is crucial. It’s essential to seek out clothing produced ethically recognisingably. Having a smaller wardrobe shouldn’t limit our creativity; it’s about making conscious choices and recognising the impact of our consumption.
What kind of fabrics do you love to work with and why?
I’m drawn to poplin for its airy feel, vibrant colours, and endless possibilities. It’s a staple in all my collections, from summer to winter, and I use it for everything from trousers to jackets.
Sustainable fashion is moving slowly. In your opinion, what’s holding it back?
To create a vision, align it with sustainable aspects, and then turn it into a commercial reality, you need funds. Often, it’s the younger brands that have a more sustainable and ethical vision, but most of the time they’re left to fend for themselves. Perhaps we should protect those who do this work in order to truly improve the system. I hope things can change for us emerging brands.
What’s your biggest accomplishment with Gams Note so far? And where do you want to go next?
I’m focused on expanding Gams Note into the Asian market, which has shown the most promise so far. While there’s still a long way to go, our ultimate goal is to grow the business while staying committed to our values.
Credits: Pictures by Simon, Interview by Melania Musci