Jak stylista Miss Czech Republic přepsal svůj business plán
www.posiv.cz ǀ 27
POSITIV MAN
in this field. That was also one of the reasons why FÚZE,
the first fashion forum in Ostrava, was created.
Ticket prices go up to CZK 6,000—What does a guest
need to get for that price to see it as a worthwhile
investment, not just a fashion show?
We set this price partly based on last year’s experience,
when the demand for VIP tickets was so high that
the last one sold for more than four times its original
value. But it’s not really about the specific amount you
pay for a ticket—It’s more about the opportunity to treat
yourself to something exceptional.
This VIP ticket allows you to enjoy the evening in full
style, with the best possible view. Given the kind
of epic audio-visual show we are preparing, it’s truly
worth sitting directly opposite a nearly ten-metre
screen. Beyond front-row seating, premium catering
by chef Lukáš Pazdyka, and unlimited drinks of all kinds
included in the price, I see the greatest benefit in access
to the partners’ zone. That’s a space designed for meet-
and-greets with notable personalities and our business
partners. It’s a great opportunity not only for business
networking.
You offer three collection tiers—Ready-to-wear, made-
to-measure, and bespoke. Why did you choose this
model?
To cover as wide of a spectrum of our clients as
possible. The experience is that most people would
like a bespoke piece—Something made to measure
from the finest materials—but not everyone can afford
it. That said, I believe everyone has the right to wear
high-quality, well-tailored clothing. Thanks to our ready-
to-wear and made-to-measure lines, we’re able to offer
pieces with the identity and DNA of our brand to almost
every wardrobe, without having to compromise on our
quality standards.
When do you say “no” to the market? Do you adapt
your design to sales, or do you stick to your vision
at all costs?
In our case, fortunately, the two go hand in hand.
We’ve never had the ambition to introduce new trends;
rather, we aim to bring back classic, timeless, high-
quality pieces to women’s wardrobes—Pieces that flatter
the female figure regardless of trends.
Do you still enjoy the creative process itself, or
do you find more fulfilment in what you are building
around fashion?
Personally, I have a constant need for change.
I probably couldn’t stay in one position for too long.
That’s why I’ve structured the activities and operation
of the SA|KO STUDIO platform to be varied throughout
the year. In spring, I’m a businessman; over the summer,
a designer; in autumn, a producer. And in the winter, I rest.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Paris Fashion
Week? Dubai? New York?
Personally, I’d like to remain in Ostrava. I’ve never had
particularly strong ambitions to relocate elsewhere,
especially as my work often takes me beyond the region
anyway. As for SA|KO STUDIO, I’d love to see
it at Mercedes-Benz Prague Fashion Week, which
I would consider an important milestone. And then we’ll
see—Perhaps one day the brand will expand into retail
and, alongside its showroom in Ostrava, will open stores
across the country.
What would you say to a young designer who dreams
of a big show but is afraid of production costs?
They should push themselves to get off social media,
stop constantly watching others, and set out on their
own path. Every step, even in the wrong direction,
moves them forward on their journey towards their
goal. It’s essential to believe in yourself—then potential
investors will believe in you too and follow the same
path with you.
Can fashion today boost a man’s confidence, or
is that just an illusion? Where, in your opinion, is true
confidence born?
It’s not just today—It has always been the case. Clothing—
Quality, well-fitting clothing—attracts the attention
of women and earns the respect of other men. That can
certainly boost confidence. Confidence? For a man,
it’s a perfectly tailored suit—and no one will convince
me otherwise. And above all, it will never go out of style.
It’s essenal to believe in yourself—Then
potenal investors will believe in you too
and follow the same path with you.
Luděk Šmehlík is a Czech fashion designer, stylist,
and founder of the SA|KO STUDIO brand. He has
gained experience in both the Czech and internaonal
scenes, including collaboraons with projects such as
Miss Czech Republic. Today, he is building a plaorm
that connects design, community, and business,
and is behind projects such as FÚZE and the authorial
FASHION SHOW A|W26.