Where are they now? Catching up with Designer Rocco Adriano Galluccio in Milan, Italy

We stepped into the Carla Carini office in Milan on a sunny September day and were greeted with kisses from both the designer and his Instagram-famous pup, Pippi. Immediately refreshed by the soft palate of Spring 2023 samples surrounding us, the brand’s sophisticated, relaxed elegance is indeed a vibe. 

We first met the talented Italian fashion designer in 2015 when he showcased his Alcoolique collection at Vancouver Fashion Week. 

Recalling his show at V.F.W., Galluccio says, “it was a beautiful experience, from the incredible organisation, to the runway and models, the International magazine exposure, but mostly the people.” 

The Naples-born ‘genio creativo’ cites his first job out of fashion design school in 2010 at a major design house. Only two years later, he launched the Alcoolique label, whose “shine like a star” tagline manifested itself, becoming a favourite of American celebrities such as

Sarah Jesica Parker, among others. He describes the Alcoolique woman as “a little crazy, sexy, party girl.” 

In 2021 Galluccio stepped into a prestigious new role as creative director for classically esteemed Italian Maison Carla Carini. A staple in European womens’ wardrobes since the 1970’s, the Carla Carini woman is near to the designer’s heart, noting that his mother was a very loyal customer in the 1980’s. 

The brand’s CEO, Marco Migliari says, “Today, Carla Carini ‘s aesthetic codes are revisited and infused by Rocco Adriano Galluccio into a new vision, imbued with evocations and influences, through a subtle and balanced take on the staples of women’s wardrobe.” 

“When I design, I think about the real women who will wear these pieces and the different types of bodies. It is important for me to create fashion for people more than celebrities.” Galluccio notes that the pieces are all interchangeable, meant to fit with other pieces from one’s wardrobe. 

Now on his 3rd collection with the Carini House, the brand’s “liberated femininity” and “essential but sophisticated’’ style is seeing excellent results with buyers and press. 

Fusing nostalgia with modernity, the designer says, “In every collection I draw from the brand’s DNA. I try to put a piece of myself into it. Clean, colourful with a touch of

western style, I think this collection is very personal and full of emotions.” 

#carlaisback

Written by: Carmen Vars