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Mariella BuranyFashion designer |
Content:
- A Serendipitous Fashion Journey
- Unconventional Style
- A Family Affair
- Interior Inspirations
- From Humble Beginnings
- The Pros and Cons of Family Business
- The Importance of Family and Creativity
A Serendipitous Fashion Journey
Mariella Burani, the renowned creator behind one of Italy's most coveted casual wear brands, shares her unexpected path into the fashion industry. "It all happened quite unexpectedly," she reveals. "I had never planned it."
With a degree in teaching, Mariella found herself in a remote mountain town, struggling to adapt. "I didn't impress the priest, the doctor, or anyone else in the upper echelons," she quips. Facing resistance, her husband encouraged her to return home and embark on a new venture. And so, by sheer chance, their fashion journey began.
Unconventional Style
Mariella's signature style is rooted in practicality. "I love stockings, not tights, and I only wear them when the cold forces me to," she explains. Her collection features a playful array of youthful mesh stockings, a testament to her belief in provocative yet wearable fashion.
She attributes her aversion to prim hairdos and stockings in a press release as an oversight. "It's just a mistake. I adore stockings."
A Family Affair
Mariella resides in her hometown, where her factory is based. Despite her proximity to her employees, she maintains a distinction between their respective offices. "The truth is, my husband, our children, and I all live in the same town, Cavriago, in the province of Reggio-Emilia," she clarifies. "That's where we were born, and it's the heart of our company." The commercial office, however, is located in Milan's prestigious via Montenapoleone.
Interior Inspirations
Regarding her personal aesthetic, Mariella opts for comfort and authenticity. "I'm not interested in excessive luxury or lavish possessions," she remarks. "My home reflects my personality. I surround myself with things I love, that I find comforting to fall asleep and wake up to."
From Humble Beginnings
Mariella inherited her family residence, a testament to their modest upbringing. "When my husband and I first moved in, our home was tiny and unassuming," she recalls. "We longed to upgrade, and when we found a house for sale, my husband fell in love with it instantly." Undeterred by financial constraints, they purchased the property, transforming it into a hub of warmth and hospitality.
The Pros and Cons of Family Business
"Our business is very much a family affair," Mariella acknowledges. Her husband is the president and chairman of Mariella Burani, while their sons, Giovanni and Andrea, have commercial and economic backgrounds.
"Initially, it seemed like they knew everything and I knew nothing," she laughs. "But over time, I've gained confidence in my intuition and they've come to appreciate my insight."
The Importance of Family and Creativity
Mariella believes that family and creativity are inextricably linked. "I couldn't imagine my life or my company without them," she asserts. "In the beginning, I had no experience in trade fairs or fabric selection. I learned it all through my family business. There are so many talented young designers today, but many choose to leave their hometowns. They miss out on the nourishment and inspiration their roots provide, which can hinder their creative growth. Family and creativity, in my view, go hand in hand."
