ITALIA COLLECTION

With an Italian mother and a Dutch father who spent part of his childhood in Italy, it is no surprise that I feel deeply connected to this country. From its warm-hearted people and unmatched cuisine to the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, Italy continues to inspire me — in life and in my work.

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A special place within this connection is reserved for Elba, a stunning island I have been visiting my entire life. Its beauty, its colors, and its rich marine life hold a permanent place in my heart. Just swimming along the shore, you might encounter fish, crabs, shrimps, and even octopuses — one of my favorite sea creatures. Dolphins are frequent visitors, and every now and then, even whales or mobula rays pass by.

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Elba lies within the Pelagos Sanctuary, a vast protected area that is home to an astonishing 8.500 macroscopic marine species — up to 18% of all known marine life. And yet, even here, marine biodiversity is under pressure from overfishing, climate change, marine traffic, plastic pollution, and mass tourism.

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This collection is my tribute to Italy — to its food, its people, its land, and the sea that surrounds it. With every piece, you help protect the marine ecosystems that continue to inspire me — especially around Elba, where it all began.