SNM:  Allyson, we met a year ago at Micam exhibition. Did the exhibition work out for you? Every year I visit Mipel/Micam, and notice many new Made in Italy brands. As well in recent 5 years I have been watching a lot of Made in Italy brands disappearing. Do you think it is a good strategy for an Emerging Talent to take part in this exhibition with first collection? 

Allison: Yes, certainly I remember that.  We met almost one year ago. Being able to participate in the Fair for me was a very unique experience and I believe that those who want to launch and make known their brand must participate in this important event. It gave me visibility and the possibility to believe even more in my collection but it is only a starting point: commitment, will and the courage to go beyond initial sacrifices and difficulties, will allow me to stay in the sector with unique and high quality products .

SNM: Tell our readers about your background? What is the story behind your brand?Why was it important for you to start your own line?As well, why did you decide to create bags?

Allison: My previous work experiences have always been in the fashion industry, my true passion and heartfelt passion; just being able to stay in touch with products made in Italy, I began to cultivate the dream of creating my own brand of products that would talk about me and my fabulous city.The creative fire has always been alive and burning within me, until the moment when thanks to my savings and my determination I decided to create Allison Style. Why did I decide to create bags? Maybe you’ll laugh but I think that the bag for the woman is more than an accessory. It is a companion that collects secrets and desires of every woman: we hide our world in our bag is part of us, lives with us as in symbiosis.

SNM: We are absolutely in love with the Giulietta Collection. I like the idea of capsule collection. What makes Giulietta Collection unique? 

Allison:  The uniqueness lies in the history in which they were born: since I was a child I have always visited Juliet’s house in the center of Verona, where everyone can admire the famous statue of this feminine but curvy girl, with elegant but strong features. The women of Verona are a bit ‘all linked to Juliet. Her statue inspired  the lines of the bags of my collection.

SNM: What is you favourite piece from the collection? 

Allison: Obviously I love them all, but if I have to be honest I love the backpack, it’s unique!

SNM: Share with our readers about the artisan techniques you use in crafting each piece? As well share some production secrets may be if possible.

Allison: I spent a lot of time looking for the artisans who could work with the high-quality leather which my bags are made of.  I spent most of my day with them in the shop. Working directly with the team, I create unique, hand-crafted genuine leather goods with history and meaning, by bringing a contemporary relevance to traditional skills. Watching them being in the process with full respect to the details, celebrating imperfection of leather is priceless.

SNM:Are you planning on opening a retail store? Which city in your opinion has Allison Style character?

Allison: I believe that now the world is like one big and unique city. My bags can be worn in Europe, as in Asia, Japan or the Americas because they come into symbiosis with the woman who brings them, her uniqueness everywhere she dresses. For the moment I do not have plans to open stores, but never say never.

SNM: Many designers try to integrate high tech innovations into their designs.Do you think this is something you might consider in the future to marry such opposite things as modern technology and old school aesthetics?

Allison: Today technology innovations are part of everyday life more than ever…in a small part, even my bag collection offers the possibility to bring your own accessories and your computer with you, in particular the Giulietta backpack for its capacity and size. There fore it is  suitable for a busy day in the office or a adventurous day exploring the city. It was created for the woman who loves being fashionable.

SNM: How many bags do you have in your own wardrobe? Are they of your own brand?

Allison:  I have more than a dozen, but some are in my closet for years (Armani bags), because for me they represent and bring with them moments of lived life and indelible memories. Even if I wore them once  I can not give them away or get rid of them. They’re part of my life. I would like to believe one day someone says the same about my bags.

Find out about Allison Style more  

Photo: Anna Minaeva