Quality and understatement are the two guiding principles behind Pramma. Created by accessory designer Stefania Pramma, this collection of handbags focuses on luxury in its purest sense: superb materials and production methods allied to a discreet and timeless aesthetic.
Founded in 2014, Pramma is a fusion of the designer’s Northern Italian heritage with the global perspective of a naturalized New Yorker. Over the past two decades, Stefania has honed her design skills by working collaboratively on accessory ranges for a number of luxury brands in Europe, Asia and the US, thus ensuring that her own collection marries practicality with a sense of the exquisite.
Combining the best Italian and French materials, Pramma bags showcase the pristine quality of the skins by eradicating unnecessary seams – ensuring a purity of line that can be achieved only when quality is paramount.
Each piece is handmade in Italy by skilled craftsmen and is designed with longevity foremost in mind.
In addition, the measured use of precious and semi-precious stones on each piece reveals the designer’s love of fine jewellery, yet simultaneously underscores the intensely personal nature of the brand: every style reflects an aspect of Stefania’s own creative and intellectual journey, culminating in a collection that is idiosyncratic as it is beautiful.
When you’re designing, are you responding more to who you are or who you’re becoming?
I design to explore. It is very instinctive. I know where I start but I look for a surprise with the final result. It is always looking ahead and looking for the unexpected.
What non-fashion references most influence your work — art, architecture, music, or something unexpected?
I am inspired by masterful craft, would that be art, design or architecture. I have a lot of respect and admiration for the unapologetic attitude of many contemporary artists, for their very often difficult journey and the integrity of their practice. My design is about a language through colours, materials, and shapes. There is also a very important aspect of my personal connection with the community of artisans I work with. They are a true inspiration. I want each piece to communicate that connection.
If your designs existed in a film, what would the world look like?
It would be an animation movie. Toy Story for example. I see my handbags as little creatures, each with their own unique personality. And it would be a world of humor, beauty and harmony. Maybe a magical garden of happiness, love and respect for all creatures. A dream.
Have you ever intentionally left a “flaw” in a design? What does imperfection communicate to you?
I do not believe in perfection. It is a lie.
By nature, hand crafted pieces are very often not flawless because they are made by human hands, not by a machine. I respect imperfections. They make an object unique and interesting. They are welcome if they do not alter the beauty and the quality of the final result.
Do you design for confidence, comfort, power — or something quieter?
Most of my pieces are customized. I design for individuality.
Who do you imagine wearing your designs when no one is watching?
I do not have a person in mind. I live surrounded by my pieces and by many designers/artists’ pieces. They make me happy and special! Who buys and wears my design should feel special. No need of an audience.
What are you unlearning as a designer right now?
Probably to let go the need of explaining my work to seek validation.
