Lorenzo Caprile, renowned as one of Spain's leading fashion designers, has made significant strides not only within the fashion industry but also as a familiar face on television. His name resonates with elegance and prestige, particularly noted for dressing members of the Spanish royal family, showcasing his unique style and artistic vision.
Born to an Italian family, Caprile has leveraged both his cultural heritage and extensive training at prestigious institutions such as the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and the Politécnico Internacional de la Moda in Florence. His background has enriched his approach to haute couture, influencing his designs with elements drawn from Italian Baroque art and cinema.
One of Caprile's most emblematic creations was the wedding gown worn by Infanta Cristina at her 1997 wedding. This pivotal moment elevated his career, establishing him as a prominent figure among European designers. Caprile has expressed gratitude for this opportunity, remarking, "I always ask my brides if their dress has brought them luck. Doña Cristina was among those who said it did not." This humility reflects his deep appreciation for the personal connections he builds with clients, marking significant moments in their lives through fashion.
Recently, Caprile has been the subject of renewed interest, coinciding with his involvement as a judge on the Spanish version of the talent show 'Maestros de la Costura'. This show highlights not only his design expertise but also his passion for sharing knowledge with aspiring fashion designers. During one episode, he asserted, "Knowledge is meant to be shared; it belongs to no one," exemplifying his philosophy of mentoring and nurturing talents.
An extensive exhibition titled "Caprile Lorenzo" at the Sala Canal de Isabel II in Madrid showcases over 100 pieces from his illustrious career, alongside masterpieces from renowned painters such as Francisco de Zurbarán and Ramón Casas. The exhibition runs until March 30, 2025, offering visitors insight not only to Caprile’s marvelous garments but also to the artistic inspirations behind them. According to the exhibition's curators, Eloy Martínez de la Pera and José Luis Massó Guirao, "Caprile is one of the wisest and best couturiers of our time," emphasizing the intersection of design and art.
The designs presented reflect elements of Romanticism, the Baroque period, and cinematic glamour, echoing Caprile’s fascination with historical aesthetics. Notably, the vibrant “Letizia Red” gown worn by Queen Letizia during the royal wedding of Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik and Mary Donaldson is one of the highlights of the exhibition, capturing international media attention and acclaim.
Caprile also values personal style, offering insight during interviews about his fashion preferences. He humorously noted, "I hate socks with all my strength," and referred to his favorite item as "a well-fitted pair of jeans — the kind you wear to impress." His candidness showcases the designer's relatable personality, making him endearing to audiences beyond his designs.
Despite his celebrity, Caprile remains focused on the human aspects of fashion: the relationships with his clients, many of whom have become friends. "These moments are very intimate," he shared, hinting at the personal nature of his work. His discretion about his personal life, especially concerning his friendships with royalty, points to his humility and respect for privacy. He has stated on various occasions how the friendships he's formed throughout his career have enriched him both personally and professionally.
Caprile’s ties to the Spanish royal family extend beyond Cristina, as he has crafted numerous gowns for other royals, including Infanta Elena. One standout moment was when Infanta Elena wore Caprile’s creation at the wedding of Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, which turned heads both nationally and internationally. Caprile reminisced, noting, “It was a beautiful moment, and the dress created quite the buzz, sparking discussion across the tabloids.”
Through the highs and lows, including personal tragedies such as the recent passing of his sister Paola, Caprile has retained his commitment to the craft. During hard times, he finds solace and support among his close-knit circle, which includes royalty.
Lorenzo Caprile continues to influence the fashion scene, merging his artistic expression with personal narratives. Whether through his stunning haute couture garments, his role on television, or his education-first approach, Caprile remains at the forefront of Spanish fashion, enchanting audiences not only with his designs but also with the stories behind them. With his current exhibition and continued media presence, he is poised to leave a lasting legacy within the world of couture and beyond.