A Lover Letter to Italy

In over 20 years of working in fashion, it wasn’t the spectacles at fashion shows that impressed me. It was the opportunity to visit the Balenciaga showroom when Nicolas Ghesguiere was Creative Director and Valentino showroom in Milan during the heydays of Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli. To be able to see a collection in its entirety up close, is an experience so profound that it can change anyone’s perspective on what fashion really is and should be. 
 

Valentino

  

With even more privilege is the opportunity I had to work with suppliers there directly. As Italy slowly opens back up, I like to share some of my travel photos and hard to find products made in Italy by independent producers.

The people of Italy will overcome the psychological and financial trauma they endured during this pandemic with their beauty and vitality. But we can help them regain their footing by making the right purchase choices now. Independent makers don’t spend their budget on flashy marketing campaigns or bold fonts and colors to gain attention. The heart and soul are invested in refining the craft and perfecting the product.

 

Radaelli

 

 With great pleasure and the help of my Roman friend Teresa Venezia, I am bringing to Maison Modulare a series of very special home and personal fragrances that will drop every weekend this summer.

I asked Teresa if we can donate a portion of proceeds to help rebuild Italian small businesses. And she said yes, but it would be the greatest help if we can buy more of their magnificent products that are otherwise unknown and difficult to procure and help everyone get back to work asap.

 

 Italian Bakery