Curated Texan
Appointment Adds A New Facet To The 140-Year Journey Of The Historic Roman Jeweler
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Photography courtesy of Bulgari
“The rich cultural heritage and dual Greco-Roman roots of Bvlgari have played an integral part in my formation as a designer. I’ve always been inspired by the design codes and syncretism of Bvlgari, its mastery of colors, and the depth of narrative. I’m deeply honored to be the first Creative Director of Bvlgari Leather Goods and Accessories, leading the creative vision for this new chapter and elevating everyday life into a form of art,” said Mary Katrantzou.
“Mary’s arrival as Leather Goods and Accessories creative director makes us very proud. Mary shares with Bvlgari not only its Greek origins, but above all, the search for excellence in the choice of materials, the way they are transformed, with a particular emphasis on craftsmanship and a passionate love for color. We are certain that what we are starting with this visionary designer is a path full of successes,” said Jean-Christophe Babin, Bvlgari CEO.
In this new role, Mary Katrantzou will be responsible for the Creative Direction behind Bvlgari leather goods and accessories, including the one-of-a-kind High Jewelry collection of bags and clutches, unifying this universe of luxury.
There is an exceptional and natural affinity between Bvlgari and Mary Katrantzou, connections that are found through both inspiration and technique, as well as in Bvlgari’s rich history. Born in Greece, Katrantzou’s background mirrors that of Bvlgari’s founder, Sotirio Bulgari, in the 19th century. Raised and trained as a silversmith in Greece, Sotirio traveled to Rome in 1884 to establish his brand, bringing the Bvlgari name to the world. Unmistakable synergies can be found in the ideology and aesthetic behind Bvlgari and Katrantzou – they both share a love for timeless luxury, an instinctive and masterful embrace of color, and a constant championing of excellence in artisanship.
Mary Katrantzou first collaborated with Bvlgari in 2019, as part of her Spring/Summer 2020 couture show staged at the 500BC Temple of Poseidon, Sounio, for the Elpida charity. The collection showcased Bvlgari Heritage High Jewelry pieces in a celebration of culture and excellence that intrinsically connects the two brands. In 2021, the collaboration deepened when Katrantzou was invited to join the “Serpenti through the eyes of” series. Katrantzou reimagined Bvlgari’s best-selling Serpenti Forever bag collection, drawing inspiration from the archive to enhance the narrative and symbolism of this iconic house accessory. In 2023, a second capsule collection debuted, elevating the Serpenti Forever Icon bag through precision-engineered embroideries inspired by their
High Jewelry And Watch Collections
The success and acclaim garnered by both collections, as well as her collaboration with Bvlgari on the Omnia perfume, for which she designed her own bottle and scent in collaboration with master perfumer Alberto Morillas, deepened the connection and evolution of this symbiotic relationship between the historic Roman Jeweler and the designer.
A pioneering name in global fashion, Mary Katrantzou graduated from the esteemed MA fashion course of London’s Central Saint Martins in 2008 and immediately established her own womenswear label. Her first collection connected Katrantzou to the world of jewelry and luxury – ‘impossible’ jewelry pieces translated into hyperreal prints on silk, also actualized into one-of-a-kind accessories, setting the stage for a career that embraces symbolism and translates applied design into fashion, consistently challenging perceptions. Katrantzou is internationally recognized for her audacious color sensibility, her respect for craft, and her ability to translate an image into instantly recognizable and multifaceted designs through print, form, and material innovation. Her work has been widely recognized for its influence across fashion and has been acquired for the permanent collections of leading institutions worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, and Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Katrantzou will continue as creative director of her eponymous brand alongside her new role at Bvlgari.
The debut collection by Mary Katrantzou as Creative Director of Bvlgari Leather Goods and Accessories began to be available in Bvlgari boutiques globally in April 2025.
