A SUCCESSFUL EVENT BRINGING TOGETHER FASHION AND WINE, ALL "MADE IN ROME"

 by Maria Carla Magni

One day in late September, as the 2021 harvest was drawing to a close, the Ômina Romana summer was transformed into a realistic photo set to provide the perfect setting for the presentation of the latest Fall/Winter 2021–22 collection by a Roman designer Mia Carmen..

The winery and vineyard were enveloped in the glamorous atmosphere of fashion, transforming a mild early autumn day into a natural palette of colors—from the purplish must and crimson grapes to the soft, and at times bright, hues of the autumn garments worn by Mia Carmen’s models.

Finally, the arrival on set of the two super champions, Alba and Atos, Katharina Boerner's four-legged friends, turned out to be the real stars of the set, posing completely naturally for the photographer's shots.

To get to know Mia Carmen’s designs and style, which blend seamlessly with the vineyard’s rustic atmosphere, we asked her a few questions.

• How did the idea of setting your new Fall/Winter 2021–22 collection in the Ômina Romana vineyard come about?

  I was thinking about a location for the new fall/winter collection and wanted an outdoor setting with an autumnal feel, but one that was full of color. I immediately thought of the Ômina Romana setting, and after visiting it, my expectations were far exceeded: I found the perfect location!
  

• Are there any references to wine colors in your collection?
  My collections are always very colorful. This one, in particular, features velvet that goes perfectly with the must, so it was easy to photograph them together.
  

• What are the characteristics of your new collection, and who is it designed for?
  As always, the new collection is designedfor women who appreciate the elegance and quality of the materials they wear, even in everyday and travel attire. There are flannel and cashmere-blend coats in new colors that brighten up the fall, evoking the changing hues of the leaves this season. There are also jackets and coats in the dusty sky color of autumn, which pairs well with the powder blue of the very comfortable bi-stretch velvet we used in this collection for black or olive green dresses, or in printed velvet jackets. The jackets are made of checked wool or double wool crepe in various colors, ranging from plum to neon green, from chocolate to coral to orange. As always, our garments can also be ordered in different colors, with details and accessories chosen to your liking. One of the fundamental characteristics of our clothes is their uniqueness. Each customer can customize their look by selecting fabrics, lengths, buttons, and linings. I call it "the kingdom of wishes."

• What do you offer at your atelier in the heart of Rome?
  Anyone who steps into the Mia Carmen atelier will find the new collection, which is constantly expanding. We offer not only dresses, coats, jackets, and our incredibly comfortable trousers—which our customers love so much—but also accessories, bags, scarves, and cozy neck warmers, perfect for Christmas gifts. Everything is always “made in Mia Carmen, Made in Rome.” We provide personalized service, and each customer receives unique advice, just as all our garments are unique.

• You’re not the first designer to find a valuable partner in combining the worlds of fashion and wine. What was your experience like during the photo shoot at the Ômina Romana vineyard?
  I think Ômina Romana is a special place—not just a typical vineyard, but a place where you can feel a unique atmosphere, full of passion and love, where everything is done to the highest standard. All of us—from the photographer to the models, from the hairstylist to the makeup artist—were thrilled because the moment you step into Ômina Romana, you immediately feel privileged; you’re in a temple of fine wine, and you can feel it in the air!
  

• If you had to choose the perfect outfit to pair with a wine, what would you choose?
  If I had to pair a dress with an Ômina Romana wine, I would choose a sexy, flowing, and very elegant dress for an unforgettable evening.

• What are the trending colors and styles in this fall/winter collection?
  For me, the standout pieces in this collection are the dusty-colored ones; I absolutely love them! Paired with light-colored boots or Cady trousers in matching shades, or a patterned mini-skirt, they look stunning.
  

• What is your favorite fabric, and what item of clothing should never be missing from your wardrobe?
  The one item that should be a staple in your wardrobe is the bi-stretch velvet dress; whether it has a V-neck or a crew neck, it looks fabulous for an evening out or paired with ankle boots. Choose from solid colors or one of the many shades available in the color chart.
  

• Finally, what was the funniest moment during the shoot?
  The funniest shots were with Katharina Bōrner's wonderful dogs; they're so sweet—they showered me with kisses when I knelt down to their level. They make excellent "models," looking elegant and perfect in Mia Carmen's clothes.
  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank, first and foremost, the Bōrner family for their hospitality, as well as Andrea Laureani for the photos, hair stylist Stefano from Tagliati x il Successo in Velletri, the models Alexandra, Claudia, and Giulia, and makeup artist Cristiana.
  

CAMPAIGN FINANCED ACCORDING TO (EC) REGULATION NO: 1398/2013