Timeless Bohemian Allure: Italy’’s Consuelo Castiglioni

It would be unfair to label Consuelo Castiglioni’s designs as mere hippy fashions for the modern era. They are so much more! Classic Bohemian garb paired with contemporary flair promise a wardrobe that is both romantic and wearable. Her label, Marni, is chock-full of designs that women and men can wear comfortably in any situation; stand-out clothing that has all the hallmarks of style without many of the hallmarks of fashion that is mere novelty—clothing that is more costume than apparel for real people.

Born in Italy in 1959, Castiglioni seems to have come to the fashion world by chance; by, in fact, her husband’s family who supplied fur pelts to the likes of Fendi and Prada. When the anti-fur movement struck in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the company was in some straits, so Conseulo, who had not previously been involved with fashion, brought a fresh perspective to the table. In 1993 Castiglioni designed her first collection—a fur collection she called Marni. She presented it the Milan press, however, with little fanfare. Nevertheless, despite an inattentive audience, the novice designer persevered.

1999 was Castiglioni’’s shining year. A splendid “Delux Hippy” collection showcased dresses of crushed velvet with tye-dye designs, patchwork skirts and colorful fur jackets. Not only did this launch Marni to great heights, the small firm split from the family to become its own full-fledged fashion house. At the present, Castiglioni’s designs are still going strong and while she’s dabbled with men’s wear in the past, she’s now designing full collections for the fellas too.

Castiglioni also has special collections of exquisite handbags, boho jewelry and other accessories that have carved a name for themselves as much as her clothes have.

Part of what makes Castiglioni’’s beautiful clothes so romantic is the choice of fabric: cashmere, fur and silk for example. Of course, it is her nod to the past, her use of revamped styles from Bohemian eras that make her so appealing to fashionistas today. Simply put, her style appeals to young women who want to dress in pretty, feminine clothing that is flowing, soft to the skin and, oh yes—sexy in a guise of enchantment.

In the near future look for Marni designs to evoke a more folk-like look. Expect colors such as plum and peach, turquoise and rose. The designer’s use of comfortable, yet contrasting fabrics and whimsy nostalgic designs will keep her fans more than satisfied. Some of Castiglioni’s work ranges from jewelry—her trademark necklaces—shawls, fur jackets, skirts, blouses, dresses and more. Her clothes are available in finer department stores as well as the house’s own boutiques.

http://www.marni.com/ – Online Store

http://www.marni-international.com/ – Lists Stores and Collections