Nicola Formichetti has been called one of the most influential creative forces working in fashion. He's a fashion editor, fashion stylist, fashion director and has put his collaboration with the pop star on hold to become artistic director for the Italian clothing company Diesel. 

 So, naturally enough, Mr Formichetti was wearing denim at our meeting. And shoes with silver studs. "They make you tougher," he told me. 

But then Nicola Formichetti himself wasn't dressed like you'd imagine the man who gave Gaga her meat dress, her armadillo heels and much, much more would. And he was charming. 

 Gaga's not a diva, he told me. He left her because he wanted to do something for himself, but he would love to work with her again.