What got you started in fashion?
Having studied Fashion Business at Polimoda in Florence, Fashion and Apparel Design at the International Fashion Academy in Paris, and finally, Graphic Design at the prestigious Accademia Italiana, I soon found myself working at international brands such as L'Officiel, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Graff Diamonds and Ralph & Russo.
What inspires you when making a new collection?
I'm always inspired by nature and nostalgia. This season, I was inspired by the work of the artist James Rosenquist. His lusciously painted floral works are described as 'ecological and political paintings' - addressing the fragility of life on Earth. I also looked to the works of Yves Klein and his quote, 'Blue has no dimensions, it is beyond the dimensions.' Last but not least, I drew inspiration from the forever natural looking still life photographs of Horst P. Horst.
What is your key element to designing a sustainable garment?
The materials. Always start with the materials. I think linen is the answer to true sustainable fashion because it's grown in harmony with nature and draws on centuries of tradition. It has, therefore, become the core material of all Oramai designs.
Then, look into the details - what are the buttons made of? How can you make them better and are they biodegradable? Ours are 'corozo' that are made from a nut or Mother of Pearl but only those leftover from the food industry.