In the bustling streets of Milan, where fashion breathes life into the very cobblestones, Valentina Inverardi emerged as a beacon of innovative design. Growing up in the world’s style capital, Inverardi’s childhood experiences in Montenapoleone and Via Della Spiga deeply ingrained in her a sense of fashion that transcends mere clothing. “Milan takes your heart and fills it with life,” Inverardi reminisces, her voice echoing the vibrant energy of the city that shaped her.
From the outset, it’s clear that Inverardi’s journey is not just about creating clothes; it’s about telling stories, invoking feelings, and challenging norms. Her early exposure to Milan’s opulent fashion scene, juxtaposed with the sobering realities of the economic crisis, taught her the power of adaptability and the importance of elegance in creativity. Her work, she reveals, is a dialogue between the past’s glamour and today’s stark realism, an approach that culminates in her latest editorial project, BURN.
The genesis of BURN was as spontaneous as it was profound, born from a serendipitous collaboration with photographer Mattia Crepaldi. After a successful first shoot, Inverardi was inspired to push the boundaries of conventional fashion editorials. Drawing inspiration from a photograph in a Vivienne Westwood runway archive, she embarked on a creative odyssey to explore the juxtaposition of nature and Brutalist architecture. This concept became the backbone of BURN, guiding its aesthetic evolution
Inverardi’s approach to design is markedly influenced by her neurodivergence. She confesses, “My brain doesn’t find intuitive, simple processes… I’m not free to expand my creativity.” This unique perspective allows her to view fashion through an unfiltered lens, leading to the creation of garments that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Her method, starting with individual garments and building a conceptual narrative around them, underscores her belief that fashion is not just seen but felt.
BURN is a testament to Inverardi’s innovative spirit, marrying the softness of nature with the starkness of Brutalist design. She describes the editorial as representing the power of nature to reclaim human-made structures, a metaphor for healing and regeneration. This theme of duality – of softness against hardness, nature versus structure – runs deeply through her work, reflecting her contemplative approach to design.
Inverardi’s creative process is a dance between fabric and form, where each garment tells a part of the story. She explains, “The progression from separation to a harmonious blend of nature and structure in the clothing was achieved by focusing on fabric types and manipulations.” The editorial’s garments transition from stark contrasts to a seamless blend, mirroring the narrative of reconciliation and unity that Inverardi aims to convey.
The realization of BURN required more than just a visionary designer; it demanded a team that shared Inverardi’s passion and understanding. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, noting that the right team can transform a great idea into a groundbreaking editorial. Her partnership with Crepaldi and makeup artist Gloria Todaro was instrumental, each member bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the project.
A significant challenge in BURN was integrating natural elements into the fashion narrative in a way that was both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Inverardi and Todaro devised innovative techniques to attach flowers to skin and garments, pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion styling. Their solution, using black eyelash glue, allowed them to achieve the desired effect, showcasing their ability to think creatively and solve problems on the fly.
Reflecting on the impact of BURN, Inverardi speaks candidly about the personal and professional growth she experienced through the project. “My works are what shape my personality entirely,” she asserts, highlighting the therapeutic aspect of her creative process. Through her designs, she navigates her emotions, transforming them into artistic expressions that resonate with audiences. BURN, with its themes of conflict and harmony, became a conduit for Inverardi’s emotional journey, allowing her to channel her feelings into a powerful visual narrative.
Looking ahead, Inverardi remains open to the endless possibilities of her creative journey. While she is cautious about revealing too much, her ambition and drive are palpable. BURN has set a new standard for her work, and she is eager to explore new themes and concepts that challenge and inspire her.
For aspiring designers drawn to Inverardi’s unique vision, she offers words of encouragement: “Don’t be afraid of the fact that you are not quite sure if you are going in the right direction… Use yourself as your main inspiration.” Her advice underscores the importance of self-reflection, resilience, and authenticity in the pursuit of creative fulfillment.
Valentina Inverardi’s story is a compelling narrative of growth, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of innovation. From the fashion-laden streets of Milan to the conceptual depth of BURN, her journey is a testament to the transformative power of fashion. Inverardi is not just creating garments; she is weaving emotions into the fabric of the fashion industry, challenging us to see beyond the surface and explore the profound stories that clothes can tell.
To see more of Valentina’s work, visit their Instagram here.
