Q&A with Dan Caten of DSquared2

Born and raised in Willowdale, Ont., Dean and Dan Caten left Canada for Milan in 1991 to pursue their fashion career. It’s a move that propelled them to success and helped develop their edgy, celebrity-adored fashion house. They’re known for infusing Canadiana in their collections — think lumberjack fab and maple-leaf chic — while also playing up a European sense of style. Dan Caten (left) tells Lifestyle why “it’s a good moment for Dean and Dan.”

Lifestyle: No one mixes formal and casual better than you guys. What do you love about that esthetic?

Dan Caten: When clothing is all one way or completely perfect, it’s boring. We like to throw in a twist on something; something unexpected. It’s more modern and fresh. We like fooling around with stuff like wearing beautiful shoes or a jewelled vest with jeans and a T-shirt.

Lifestyle: Most recently you worked with Britney Spears on her Circus Tour costumes, what was that like?

DC: It was amazing! We were already big Britney fans and we’re really rooting for her because she’s been through a lot. We wanted to take iconic circus figures and make them shadowy and sexual — another way of putting together two worlds that don’t [usually collide].

Lifestyle: You’re a celebrity favourite, but who do you love dressing?

DC: No one in particular. We love seeing all people looking good – celebrity or non-celebrity.

Lifestyle: What item should every woman have in her wardrobe?

DC: Great shoes and a great handbag. Don’t cheap out on accessories. Those little things can make something stupid look alright. A guy can wear a stupid tank, have a good tan and a great watch and look good.

Lifestyle: What is your fashion pet peeve?

DC: I hate when people do too much. If they’re wearing a lot of pieces that are busy it can be an eyesore. Wear one piece that’s really strong and play down the rest.

Lifestyle: What’s it like working with your brother day in and day out?

DC: It’s so easy. We shared the same stomach so we can share the same job. We get each other, the hard part is communicating to others who are ten steps behind us.

Lifestyle: You were just inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame. What’s it like being considered Canadian icons?

DC: It’s a super honour. We’re proud of our country. It’s a pat on the back that’s like one from your parents. Our family is still in Canada and they’ll all be present at the ceremony.

Lifestyle: What should Canada do to get on the world’s fashion radar?

DC: We’re successful because we pulled out of Canada. Canada doesn’t have a fashion capital. Our Canadian vision is what separates us from everyone else. Our shirts say, Born in Canada, Made in Italy. That’s what makes us different. It’s less special in Canada because everyone is Canadian; we’re special being in Italy.

Lifestyle: From fashion to art to costume design to hosting a radio show, you guys do it all. What’s next for DSquared2?

DC: We’re doing prescription glasses coming out next year, we’ve got our stores, and we’ve got a TV show on Bravo. And we’re dressing the talent performing at the Olympics! It’s a big deal.

*Dan (left) and Dean (right) photo by Nathalie Arefieva