Elana Leanna
[1984, Apparel Design]
Based in Cranston, RI
Elana Carello’s RISD Craft Gallery
I like to create whimsical and unique knitwear with a retro influence. I love designing sweaters because you can design the entire garment. For me, designing sweaters is the closest an apparel designer comes to fine art. I want my sweaters to be wearable art in the most tasteful way. I want them to feel good as well as make the wearer look good and be happy – the first reaction when customers see my sweaters is always a smile. My process begins with my sketching the sweater, choosing yarn and colors and deciding how to knit the fabric. I create a life-size layout and decide on type and size of the yarn. I often knit a first swatch or prototype and then instruct my partner how to knit the garments on jacquard machines; this includes gauge, stitch, number of ends of yarn, and specifications for each size and garment. Everything is done under my instruction and supervision in the USA.
Tell us about some of your main sources of inspiration.
I’m inspired by so many things. Pop culture, music, and art all contribute to my desire to create. The work of the great fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, is perhaps the most inspiring, tho. After I watch a Chanel fashion show, I’m dying to sketch.
How does your current creative practice tie into your time spent at RISD?
I’m always thinking about what I learned at RISD, especially from Professors Lorraine Howes and Marie Clarke. Their words, advice, and the work ethic they taught me are still with me.
Any recent press, exhibitions, achievements or awards you’d like to share with us?
Our sweaters were featured in the last season of The Mindy Project. I’m including my early rough sketches here.
Is there a work/body of work that you are particularly excited about sharing with us at RISD Craft this year?
Yes. I decided this year to design a sweater that did not have any of my signature patterns, and that also incorporated woven material. As a small company, I have to be cautious about taking risks, but I’m very excited about this one.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m so happy to be back at the Sale.