Our
Spotlight on British brands series has covered everything from eclectic silver jewellery to custom-made onesies. For the next edition, we delve into the world of independent clothing designer
Maria Steffani. Maria creates garments with one aim in mind: to give women confidence and motivation to achieve their goals. She chats about how travel, art and colour inspire her work, and her passion for empowering women._x000D_
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What’s your inspiration?_x000D_
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I’m quite laid back in my style and I wanted to create simplistic pieces without losing femininity in the silhouettes – something a girl could throw on and instantly feel like a total babe._x000D_
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You were born in Bulgaria, studied in Italy and now live in London – how has each place impacted your work?_x000D_
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I’ve been lucky in the sense it’s given me a wider perspective on the world we live in, which then transforms into self-motivation and inspiration._x000D_
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We love your goal – to create clothing that empowers women. Why is this so important to you?_x000D_
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Thank you! I’m making it my mission because it’s so easy to get lost in the fear and doubts of today’s world. I want to be the one shaking you up saying: “Forget what you know and what they teach you – invent your own way. Put your cute dress on and go kick some ass!”_x000D_
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What is the process for creating your clothes?_x000D_
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First comes a blurred idea – anything from an exhibition to a piece of material or colour._x000D_
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I put everything on paper to see how it works then adjust and play around with details, shapes and different materials. That’s how I come up with a finalised design._x000D_
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We do a test sample which we try on a real body. If it fits, sits and moves the way we want, we’ve got it! If not (and it happens often) we adjust and re-do until we are happy or just drop the piece. You cannot force it._x000D_
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What’s next for Maria Steffani?_x000D_
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I want to continue to inspire and empower women all over the world. I truly believe that a quality piece of clothing makes you feel at your best – helping you go out and achieve your goals._x000D_
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If like Maria you’re an independent designer on a mission, we’d love to hear from you. Whether your products make a bold statement or you support an important cause, get in touch and tell us your story.
