“One of the first things I wanted to create for the Bvlgari brand was the pattern, the identity, ‘Calla.’ I was inspired by the elaborate mosaics from the Baths of Caracalla, as this remnant of ancient Rome became the inspiration for the now iconic Bvlgari Divas Dream collection. That was the basis of my first collection, my initial intention. The motif of the sensually curved fan has an impressive femininity and versatility as well as a connection with other cultures and other meanings. It is also linked to the ginkgo leaf and the calla lily plant. ‘Calla’ has an infinite number of interpretations – but “all roads lead to”…BVLGARI.” Mary Katrantzou, creative director of Bvlgari leather goods and accessories
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Natalia Vodianova
Model and philanthropist Natalia Vodianova
Leonie Hanne
Influencer Leonie Hanne
Adriana Lima
Anna Cleveland
Tina Kunakey
For her debut collection as creative director of Bvlgari leather goods and accessories, Mary Katrantzou draws inspiration from the heart and history of Rome, which is home and a great source of inspiration for the Bvlgari brand. In her first collection for the Italian house, Mary Katrantzou presents the leitmotif ‘Calla’, inspired by a distinctly Roman source – the Baths of Caracalla. Built in the third century AD, the pompous Baths of Caracalla were considered one of the Seven Wonders of Ancient Rome in antiquity. They are named after the emperor during whose reign they were built and served as a center of social life and cultural exchange. They were the heart and soul of life in ancient Rome. The floor of these baths is decorated with a striking polychromatic mosaic in the shape of a fan, composed of marble tiles of rich shades, reminiscent of jewels – pearly white, amethyst, emerald and gold. Their specific pattern is immediately recognizable. After more than four decades, the mosaic was first revealed in 2015 and 2016, when, thanks to the support of the Bvlgari brand, a major restoration of these ancient works of art took place. This history-breathing environment has long been a rich source of inspiration for the house of Bvlgari. The mosaics are reflected in the feminine shape of the fan, which is the basis of the Divas’Dream collection. We still find the fan motif in many cultures today. It resembles a ginkgo leaf, a symbol of strength and resistance, as well as the sculptural line of a cornflower flower. Its name “Calla” comes from the Greek word for magnificent beauty, and today this plant is a symbol of purity and beauty, unity and rebirth.
For her debut collection as creative director of Bvlgari leather goods and accessories, Mary Katrantzou draws inspiration from the heart and history of Rome
New to the Spring-Summer 2025 collection is the ‘Ginkgo’ leaf bag, which represents this pattern through the clean, singular form of one of its motifs. Suspended from a leather bracelet, it defines the ‘Calla’ pattern as a symbol by taking it out of the repetitive interweaving pattern and admiring its silhouette. The handbag is precisely crafted from fine nappa leather and shaped metal. It thus combines the artistic craftsmanship of jewelry production and leather processing into a single unit.
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Bvlgari’s New Chapter: Mary Katrantzou’s “Calla” Inspiration
“One of the first things I wanted to create for the Bvlgari brand was the pattern, the identity, ‘Calla.’ I was inspired by the elaborate mosaics from the Baths of Caracalla, as this remnant of ancient Rome became the inspiration for the now iconic Bvlgari Divas Dream collection. That was the basis of my first collection, my initial intention. The motif of the sensually curved fan has an impressive femininity and versatility as well as a connection with other cultures and other meanings. It is also linked to the ginkgo leaf and the calla lily plant. ‘Calla’ has an infinite number of interpretations – but “all roads lead to”…BVLGARI.” – Mary Katrantzou
Celebrity Guests: Adding Star Power
As Mary Katrantzou rolls out her artistic vision for Bvlgari, we can’t help but notice the faces lighting up the front row. You’ve got the model and philanthropist Natalia Vodianova, the influencer Leonie Hanne, and even the legendary Adriana Lima – talk about a lineup! It’s more glamorous than a midnight Oscar party, folks.
A Rich Roman History Reinterpreted
But let’s dive deeper! Katrantzou’s debut isn’t just about eye-catching designs; it’s a love letter to Rome. The Baths of Caracalla aren’t just a historical relic; they are the very heart of her creative process. Built in the third century AD, these baths were the original social media of their time – the ultimate hotspot for gossip and glamour. Imagine sipping your latte as you scroll through ‘gram photos of gladiators and emperors. “He’s wearing what today?”
With floor mosaics that could make even the most hardened modern art critic weep, Katrantzou’s designs reflect this opulence. The fan motif? Pure sass! It’s not just a nod to femininity; it’s a statement piece that says, “I’m classy, with a hint of drama.” And all of this is tied into the fabric of the collection with that fascinating ginkgo leaf and the stunning calla lily. Who knew botany could be this glamorous?
Craftsmanship Meets Artistry
As the Spring-Summer 2025 collection launches, keep your eyes peeled for the new ‘Ginkgo’ leaf bag. It’s like the swan of handbags, taking simplistic beauty to a whole new level. Suspended from a leather bracelet, it transcends the initial design chatter and allows you to admire its form rather than just its flashy rhinestones. This bag is a masterpiece crafted from fine nappa leather and shaped metal – a marriage of art and utility that has us all wondering if we’ve been doing handbags wrong all along.
In an era where so many brands are “still finding themselves,” Mary Katrantzou has an impressive roadmap! Since she’s launched her first collection, you might want to thank her next time you clutch that handbag while sipping your pumpkin spice latte. All roads, indeed, lead back to Bvlgari – and they definitely lead to your closet. So, can we get a round of applause for ancient mosaics becoming modern masterpieces? I mean, Rome wasn’t built in a day, but clearly, they were thinking about fashion!
“One of the primary elements I aspired to create for the Bvlgari brand was the distinctive pattern and identity known as ‘Calla.’ My inspiration stemmed from the intricate mosaics adorning the Baths of Caracalla, a magnificent remnant of ancient Rome that has profoundly influenced the now-iconic Bvlgari Divas Dream collection. This was the foundation of my inaugural collection; it embodied my original vision. The motif of the elegantly curved fan embodies remarkable femininity and versatility, establishing connections with various cultures and interpretations. It also resonates with the ginkgo leaf and the enchanting calla lily. ‘Calla’ offers countless interpretations – yet ultimately, “all roads lead to”…BVLGARI.” Mary Katrantzou, creative director of Bvlgari leather goods and accessories
Natalia Vodianova
Model and philanthropist Natalia Vodianova
Leonie Hanne
Influencer Leonie Hanne
Adriana Lima
Anna Cleveland
Tina Kunakey
For her debut collection as creative director of Bvlgari leather goods and accessories, Mary Katrantzou draws inspiration from the heart and history of Rome, which is home and a great source of inspiration for the Bvlgari brand. Her first collection showcases the guiding motif ‘Calla,’ intricately woven with echoes of ancient Roman heritage, specifically inspired by the grandeur of the Baths of Caracalla. Established in the third century AD, these illustrious baths were revered as one of the Seven Wonders of Ancient Rome, serving as a pivotal hub for social interaction and cultural exchange among its citizens. The grandeur of these baths resonated through the lives of the Romans, creating a backdrop filled with history and artistry.
The exquisite floor of the Baths features a stunning polychromatic mosaic, elegantly shaped like a fan, composed of rich-colored marble tiles that shimmer in tones of pearly white, amethyst, emerald, and gold. This unique pattern has become an iconic representation of the heritage that Bvlgari proudly celebrates. Following decades of neglect, the magnificent mosaic was resurrected in a significant restoration between 2015 and 2016, an endeavor supported by the Bvlgari brand, marking a return of this ancient artistry to its former glory. The fan motif, reflecting these remarkable mosaics, forms the essence of the Divas’ Dream collection, where the elegance and symbolism of the fan continues to resonate across various cultures. It draws parallels with the ginkgo leaf, a powerful symbol of strength and endurance, as well as the graceful line of a cornflower.
Moreover, the term “Calla,” derived from the Greek word signifying magnificent beauty, has come to embody a modern symbol of purity, elegance, unity, and rebirth, further emphasizing its significance within the Bvlgari narrative.
New to the Spring-Summer 2025 collection is the ‘Ginkgo’ leaf bag, which encapsulates this pattern through its clean, singular form, embodying one of its motifs. This exquisite handbag, suspended from a luxurious leather bracelet, reinterprets the ‘Calla’ pattern, elevating its silhouette to artful admiration. Meticulously crafted from the finest nappa leather with a shapely metal design, this piece harmoniously merges the artistic craftsmanship of jewelry creation and leatherwork into one cohesive unit.
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Mary Katrantzou prints
A visual spectacle that captures the opulence and intricate artistry of its time. This historical masterpiece has significantly influenced Mary Katrantzou’s designs, infusing her debut collection with a rich tapestry of cultural significance and artistic creativity.
The ‘Calla’ motif, with its graceful curves and feminine essence, not only mirrors the delicate architecture of the Baths of Caracalla but also aligns beautifully with the brand’s identity and legacy. As Katrantzou explains: the ‘Calla’ design interweaves messages of strength, beauty, and unity, rooted in the symbolism of the ginkgo leaf and the calla lily. Each piece in the collection is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship combined with modern innovation, a reflection of Bvlgari’s long-standing commitment to exquisite artistry.
Every handbag, like the new ‘Ginkgo’ leaf bag, is a testament to the meticulous details that define the Bvlgari brand. Made from luxurious nappa leather and elegantly shaped metal, the bag offers both functionality and an artistic appeal that resonates with fashion collectors and enthusiasts alike. This duality—artistry meeting practicality—places Katrantzou’s offerings at the forefront of luxurious wearable art.
In addition to the spectacular designs, the celebrity presence at the collection launch adds to the allure and excitement surrounding the debut. Stars like Natalia Vodianova and Adriana Lima not only enhance the glamorous atmosphere but also embody the spirit of modern femininity that Katrantzou aims to accentuate in her collection.
As we venture further into the Spring-Summer 2025 season, it is clear that Mary Katrantzou has set a remarkable tone for Bvlgari’s future. The fusion of Roman heritage, delicate motifs, and contemporary elegance reflects a narrative that transcends time—one that beckons history lovers and fashion aficionados to engage with a collection that epitomizes the glory of past artistry in a modern context.
So as we celebrate this new chapter for Bvlgari, we are reminded that the beauty of ancient Rome continues to influence and inspire, culminating in creations that are not just fashion statements but enduring works of art. Keep an eye on this blossoming journey as Katrantzou leads Bvlgari into a fresh fusion of tradition and innovation that promises to captivate for seasons to come.
