Nicolas Caito

Nicolas Caito (born May 16, 1969) is a French patternmaker who works in New York City.^[1] According to Elle magazine, he is "New York's most in-demand patternmaker" and is often credited with increasing the level of technical craftsmanship in American fashion to a level formerly seen only in Milan and Paris.^[1]

Caito was born and raised in the south of France.^[2] His interest in fashion was piqued during his youth when he observed the artistry involved in the construction of luxury clothing while traveling in Italy.^[1] He initially planned to enter the business side of fashion, and so in 1989, graduated from the Ecole Superieure de Commerce et de Management, Montpelier, with a degree in international business.^[1] After his uncle presented him with the opportunity for an apprenticeship at Lanvin, however, Caito changed career paths.^[1]

At Lanvin, Caito spent his first two years sewing linings and pockets as deuxieme main.^[1] There, he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming premiere main qualifiee, a position in which he sewed detailed flourishes on the house's clothing.^[1][3]

Caito later moved to Hermès for 18 months, and then to Rochas.^[1] At Rochas, he collaborated with designer Olivier Theyskens to develop some of the house's critically lauded designs.^[1]

In July 2005, Caito opened his own atelier in New York City. Since then, he has worked with some of New York's most talented designers, including Proenza Schouler, Thakoon, Zac Posen, Calvin Klein Collection and Ralph Lauren. He also appears in the Sundance Channel documentary "The Day Before"^[4] alongside Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler.^[5]

History and Present According to Elle Magazine, Atelier Nicolas Caito is the premier patternmaking studio in New York City. By offering a singular level of craftsmanship, Caito works with designers from concept, through fittings, alterations, sample-making and production. His technical expertise has enabled him to transcend the traditional rules of patternmaking and assist designers in creating daring, experimental and challenging clothes. Whether the project requires precision-like tailoring, fluid volume, or intricate draping, Nicolas' vast experience and attention to detail help him to assist designers in their creative process. Also available for special projects, like wedding dresses, special occasion gowns and custom garments, Atelier Nicolas Caito has garnered a reputation for creating exquisite works of art.

A native of France, Caito trained at Lanvin. He also worked at Hermes and at Rochas, under Olivier Theyskens. In 2005, Nicolas Caito moved to New York City and established his own atelier, quickly becoming part of the city's fashion community. Although he has garnered considerable acclaim, penned as "New York's most in-demand patternmaker," Nicolas Caito has remained behind the scenes, preferring to allow the work to speak for itself.

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