Melagence's Ultimate Milan Guide

The family-owned brand Barena Venezia has redefined casual elegance in Italy and beyond for over 27 years. Long before “sprezzatura” and “soft tailoring” became fashion buzzwords, Barena blended refined fabrics with workwear influences, creating a distinctive aesthetic. Inspired by the rural dress of Venetian workers, the brand takes its name from the Italian word “baro”, meaning “emerged lands,” a nod to Venice’s unique lagoon landscape. As creative director Massimo Pigozzo states, “Nothing inspires us more than life by the sea and the lagoon,” a philosophy that remains central to Barena’s identity.

Barena’s roots date back to 1961, when founder Sandro Zara began exploring the archives of old Venetian wool mills, discovering historic patterns and textiles that would later shape the brand’s fabric-first philosophy. Officially launched in 1993, Barena set itself apart with a dedication to timeless craftsmanship over fleeting trends. A key turning point came in the late 1980s when Zara partnered with Massimo Pigozzo, leading to the development of a full menswear collection, defined by an effortless fusion of elegance, sportiness, and utility. 

In 2008, Sandro’s daughter Francesca Zara joined the company, expanding the brand into womenswear. Many pieces are inspired by early 20th-century patterns, with designs brought to life in the brand’s in-house laboratory, where artisans carefully construct each garment. This approach ensures that every collection seamlessly blends Venetian heritage with modern sophistication.

By collaborating with artisans and producers in Venice, the brand continues to celebrate its city’s rich cultural legacy. The colors of the lagoon, the textures of the sea, and the silhouettes of venetian workers are reflected in every collection. Season after season, Barena Venezia reinterprets classic workwear with an effortlessly refined and versatile aesthetic, creating a wardrobe that is both timeless and contemporary.

Agua by Agua Bendita embodies timeless elegance and sophistication, drawing inspiration from the rich biodiversity and vibrant culture of Latin America. Every piece tells a story, crafted with passion and infused with hand-illustrated details, luxurious fabrics, and exquisite embroidery. The brand is blending tradition with modern design to create unique and captivating garments.

Founded in 2003 by Mariana Hinestroza and Catalina Álvarez in Medellín, Colombia, Agua by Agua Bendita began as a small project, handcrafting swimsuits from leftover fabrics using their grandmothers' sewing machines. Over the years, their dedication and creativity transformed the brand into an internationally recognized name, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and distinctive designs.

At the heart of Agua by Agua Bendita is a deep commitment to empowering women. As a female-led company, the brand works closely with talented artisans, many of whom dedicate up to 200 hours to creating the intricate embroidery that defines their pieces. This dedication ensures that each garment is not only a fashion statement but also a celebration of artisanal skill and cultural heritage.

More than just a clothing brand, Agua by Agua Bendita represents a philosophy of honoring craftsmanship, sustainability, and storytelling through fashion. By choosing their creations, customers embrace not only beautifully designed pieces but also the love, dedication, and artistry that go into every stitch, making each piece a wearable work of art. 

Christian Wijnants stands for modern luxury and innovation. Based in Antwerp, the label presents four collections a year at Paris Fashion Week, including a runway show on the official calendar. Since 2019, the brand has also expanded into menswear. Known for its distinctive aesthetic, Christian Wijnants blends innovative knitwear, vibrant prints, and fluid silhouettes to create a poetic style.

Founded in 2003, the brand draws inspiration from Antwerp’s rich cultural heritage. Christian Wijnants’ designs reflect a sense of ease and freedom, with versatility at the core of each collection. His approach to fashion emphasizes artistic expression through delicate knitwear and striking color combinations, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and contemporary.

Christian Wijnants’ journey into fashion began in Brussels, where he was born, before moving to Antwerp in 1996 to study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts. His graduate collection won the Dries Van Noten Award for best collection in 2000, followed by the Grand Prix at the Festival d'Hyères. These early accolades set the stage for the launch of his eponymous brand just a few years later.

With a focus on rich, layered graphics and fresh color palettes, Christian Wijnants has established himself as a leading designer in the industry. His dedication to craftsmanship and authenticity has earned him numerous awards, including the 2013 International Woolmark Prize, the 2006 ANDAM Award, and the 2005 Swiss Textiles Award. Today, his collections continue to captivate a global audience, offering a unique balance of artistry and wearability.