How does a brand obtain real success, and what metrics should be used to confirm it? While there may not be a perfect answer in the world of fashion, supporters can still celebrate the brands that are making real impact through their creativity.

For designer Henry Zankov, a baseline of deliciously soft, boldly-colored sweaters provided an early springboard to the expansion of his Zankov brand. “Once I changed the approach and started seeing it as a whole wardrobe explored through knitwear, the possibilities became endless and more exciting,” he said.  

Each season since the designer’s 2019 launch has seen the evolution of Zankovian stripes (color stories abound), geometric prints, and silhouettes that can lean sensual (SS24 Look 16, for the hawk-eyed reader). The brand has also folded artistic inspiration into each collection, creating distinctive Zankov stories that consumers can only tap into through the brand. 

These range from the playful face designs of personal friend Philippine de Richemont on button-down shirts, to the introduction of gray inspired by Nathalie du Pasquier for the latest collection.

For Zankov himself, ideas and designs that make him most uncomfortable are often the ones worth following through on.

“There is a huge risk in itself to bring that to fruition, but most of the time it pays off as people can feel that subversive energy,” he said. 

Leading with love, passion, and a clear point of view are the designer’s toolbox for success. 

“I think it is important to know who you are and what you are bringing into this world,” he explained.

With a determined gaze set on the launch of a brick-and-mortar, New York location and headier global expansion in the next few years, the brand is primed for an even more compelling stage of growth, cresting over the horizon.