Interview with Miryaki
Two young and attractive students of the opposite sex meet each other while working at a night club in Milan. What happens next? The easy answer, the one we would see in the movies, would simply be a one-night stand. What if we were to jump forward in time and I showed you the same attractive duo talking with a team of Sicilian tailors…is this the lead-up to a traditional Italian wedding scene? NO! During those long club nights the two young students, Mia Vilardo and Riccardo Polidoro, developed more than a friendship, they began to talk about future plans for a fashion line. These plans were realized in 2009 with Miryaki.
Now an award-winning brand, Miryaki uses Italian handmade quality to produce surprising collections that have gained attention for their blend of two very different creative spirits. Mia, from Sicily and Riccardo, from the Veneto, come from opposite ends of Italy, have different favorite designers . When we were in touch with Mia and Riccardo, we tried to found out how their two different approaches to the world have developed into a beautiful line of clothing that manages to be both ethereal and edgy.
Do you think your past experiences – in school, travel and work – can be seen in your design aesthetic?
What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of being identified as Italian (as opposed to French, Dutch etc…) designers?
In terms of how you dress, what has been the worst fashion mistake you have ever made?
Mia: I decide what to wear depending on my mood, absolutely never for the occasion, just what reflects me the most. Of course, there are few things that I could never give up, like high-heeled shoes. Every time I wear them I feel more confident about myself… Whenever I don’t feel too good I make the worst fashion mistakes, but just because I stop taking care of myself and consequently I trivialize my outfits; Thankfully, this never happened at work, even though I must admit that if we had had the finances we would probably dare a bit more.
Riccardo: I chose what to wear based on the temperature, I always pick the right garments depending on the weather. The worst fashion mistake i can make is to chose the comfort of a sweater over a shirt. In our collections, unfortunately, we had to limit our creativity because of the cost of the materials, even though sometimes it’s necessary.
When you win an award how do the two of you celebrate?
First thing we do, instinctively, is to hug, kiss and congratulate one another for what we have been able to achieve. Riccardo often says: “good job, honey”, while I’m a person of few words, I can hardly show my emotions while it’s happening. Once I have realize it, we share the joy and throw parties with our Team and all of the people that surround us, it’s also because of them if Miryaki keeps on growing day by day.