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Rosantica Founder, Michela Panero.
Images courtesy of Rosantica.

REAL TALK WITH ROSANTICA’S MICHELA PANERO

The founder behind the festive season’s most covetable party favours

Words by Bridget Barnett

Embellished with crystals, faux pearls and feathers, Rosantica’s jewellery and handbags are the ultimate statement-making party accessories. Here, we sit down with Milan-based founder Michela Panero to find out more about how her decadently maximalist label came to be.

Images courtesy of Rosantica.

Tell us about the journey of Rosantica.


I was raised in Brazil, where I lived until the age of 14. My nanny’s brother worked in a mineral cave, and through this I was exposed to the amazing world of minerals. Since then, my passion for gems and jewellery making has accompanied me through the years. After years of study and research, finally, in 2009, I transformed my biggest passion into my job, founding Rosantica.


Your creations are truly wearable pieces of art. What artists do you find inspiring?


I love the artistic avant-garde of the early 20th century. The new beginnings are always sparkling and artists of those decades experimented in every way and form possible. I love the broken notes and impossible rhythms of Luigi Russolo, and the geometrical rationing of Josef Hoffmann, who – among his incredible works – was also dedicated to the creation of jewels. Surrealist genius Salvador Dalì is also one of my main sources of inspiration, both in and out of work.


Who is your Rosantica muse?


My muse is Frida Kahlo with her unique beauty and that enviable elegance that made her as contagious as a fashion trend. Her love for flowers translated to her canvases and her way of dressing. I love her unique mix of Mexican tradition and openness to the world; that delicacy and enormous sensitivity with which she faced a painful and often unjust life. It made her not only my style icon, but above all, a model of a woman who we should all look up to.


All your pieces are handmade. Can you tell us about the process?


Craftsmanship is fundamental to each of my creations. The craftsmen who handle the fabrics or material of my bags and jewels look at all possible manipulations to create results that are unique. The manufacturing process is also lengthy and complex.

Images courtesy of Rosantica.

What has been your proudest achievement of the brand since you started?


My biggest goal has not yet been achieved. We used to say "when I grow up I would like to become…," but maybe we will never stop deciding. I would like to teach what I do and what I have learned to women in developing countries. I believe that what makes you a richer, better person in life is humility and the desire to help others, without forgetting your origins regardless of how far you have come.


Living in Milan, could you recommend any local haunts we should visit on our next trip?


“Milan is a little wonderland — full of secret places. In winter, I really like the Spirit de Milan, a former factory that preserves its industrial character through music. Some of the greatest artists in the national music scene were born there. I would also suggest taking a leap into the great little empire of da Giacomo, which has good food within a gourmet restaurant, a pastry shop and even a space for cooking classes. While I love the historic places that represent Milanese tradition, I admit that every so often I experience the fascination of new bars and clubs, too. Favourites include Penelope a Casa and Ceresio 7.”

Images courtesy of Rosantica.

What is some of the best advice you’ve been given?


“Always remain determined and courageous even when life takes you down.”

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