SEIFERT: The Journey of Michael Seifert through Fashion, Sustainability, and Craftsmanship

Today, we dive into the world of Michael Seifert, an international model, creative director, and founder of the brand SEIFERT. With a multicultural background and a career that spans from the runway to creating an eco-conscious fashion line, Michael shares his journey and the philosophy behind his brand.

Michael, can you tell us how your career in fashion began and how SEIFERT came to life?

My journey in fashion began when I was just seven, doing commercial modeling in the Philippines. As I grew up, I had the chance to work with prestigious brands like Gucci, Dior, and Calvin Klein, traveling to cities like Milan, London, and Hong Kong. These experiences ignited my passion for fashion and eventually led to my desire to create something of my own.
SEIFERT was born in 2022 during a pivotal moment in my life, after the passing of my father. I went to Bali to find myself again, and it was there that I reconnected with a childhood dream: becoming a designer. I created a gender-neutral, sustainable brand inspired by my father's timeless style and my travels around the world. My goal through SEIFERT was to create timeless, elegant pieces that were limited edition and would positively impact the environment.

How important is craftsmanship to you and what does "Made in Italy" mean for your brand?

Craftsmanship is at the heart of SEIFERT. Having grown up between Asia and Europe, I feel deeply connected to the idea of merging Italian artisanal excellence with ethical production in Bali. "Made in Italy" represents luxury and high quality to me, and designing my collections in Milan allows me to draw on this rich tradition. At the same time, producing in Bali enables me support local artisans and maintain a balance between European design and Asian craftsmanship. 

SEIFERT is a slow fashion brand. What is your vision of sustainable fashion, and how do you apply it to your brand?

For me, slow fashion is the antidote to today’s fast-paced fashion industry. Instead of producing large quantities of garments, we create just two capsule collections a year, all limited edition and made to order. This approach allows us to minimize waste, focusing on durable and versatile pieces that our customers can wear and cherish for years. We use high-quality materials and encourage our consumers to make more mindful purchases, investing in timeless pieces rather than fast fashion trends.

What are the main benefits of slow fashion, not only for the environment but also for the artisans and customers?

Adopting slow fashion means reducing environmental impact and creating a deeper connection between the garment and the wearer. When customers purchase made-to-order pieces, they know they own something unique, crafted with care. For our artisans, it means fairer working conditions and a more thoughtful production process. It’s a way to create value for both the customer and the producer, ensuring a more ethical and transparent supply chain.

What role do accessories, especially eyewear, play in completing a look?

Accessories are like the cherry on top. For example, today I’m wearing the Lino Eco Green model from TBD Eyewear, and I find that it adds the perfect final touch to my outfit. Eyewear not only completes the look but can transform an outfit, making it more authentic, personal to one’s sense of style, and distinctive. I believe that, like SEIFERT, TBD Eyewear shares the importance of sustainability and craftsmanship, which opens up many possibilities for synergy between our brands. 

Can you give us a sneak peek into your upcoming projects?

I’m really excited about the launch of my third collection later this year, but I’m already working on something new that will take the brand even further. I can’t reveal too much, but I can tell you to keep your senses ready... it will be an experience that engages all of them! The launch is scheduled for next spring, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.

In this interview, Michael Seifert shows us how fashion can be a means of creating change and raising awareness. With SEIFERT, he successfully combines elegance, sustainability, and a personal touch, crafting pieces that reflect his commitment towards a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry.