Designer Spotlight: Ottavio and Rosita Missoni
Missoni was born of the partnership between husband and wife design duo Ottavio and Rosita Missoni. Ottavio designed and plotted the patterns and colors while Rosita designed the shape and structure of the garments.
Rosita and Ottavio helped put Italian fashion on the map. Their combination of slinky sensual forms and brilliant zigzag and watercolor space dye patterns (often influenced by Guatemalan, Aztec, and Incan designs, as well as Art Deco, Impressionism, and abstract art) defined Italian mid century fashion, while still being harmonious enough to prevail throughout the decades as a mainstay of luxury style.
Designer Spotlight: Nina Ricci
Ricci worked intimately with each garment, pleating and pulling until she was satisfied. Although she sketched and drew patterns, she preferred to work directly on a mannequin. When she had finished perfecting her vision, she would send the prototype garment off to her seamstresses for the next step in production. Ricci was a designer who understood her clients needs and accommodated to their lifestyles without withholding style and substance.
