A Letter from Antonina

Fashion for me has always been about storytelling. About capturing emotions, memories, and moments in something tangible. My journey began in Warsaw, where I studied Fashion Design at the Academy of Fine Arts before specialising in womenswear at the Gerrit Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam. From the very beginning I was drawn to the intersection of textile and print design, fascinated by the way fabric could serve as both a medium and a message.

My first experience in the world of haute couture was with Iris van Herpen. Being part of her atelier, working on both Ready-to-Wear and couture for her collection was an experience that shaped me deeply. I found myself immersed in the intricate process of creation, developing pieces, assisting during Paris Fashion Week at the Centre Pompidou and supporting the daily workings of the studio. It was a world of innovation, precision, and boundless creativity. I learned so much about pushing the limits of material and form.

From there I moved to New York City, where I joined Alexander Wang’s Print and Textile Department. I worked closely with two incredible senior designers, refining my skills in print, embroidery and textile manipulation. Each project was a lesson in balance, how to create something that felt bold yet effortless, conceptual yet wearable. After another incredible experience in New York, I was invited to join Vivetta in Florence, a brand known for its romantic yet unconventional aesthetic. Under the creative direction of Patti Wilson, Editor-at-Large of Vogue Italia, I explored a new side of design, one that played with nostalgia and craftsmanship in a way that felt both personal and expressive.

Eventually I felt the pull to create something of my own, which led me to launch my label, ANTONINA POPPY. For me, design is not just about fashion, it’s about creating something that tells a story. Something that holds meaning beyond the garment itself. I love working on different designs, from wedding dresses and opera costumes to bespoke pieces, always with an eye toward craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for textiles. My inspiration often comes from books I've read, places I've been or things I’ve seen, and I try to reinterpret them in a way that feels fresh and relevant.

Now based in Florence, I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such rich history and artistry. Working with local artisans has given me a deeper connection to craftsmanship and the city itself constantly fuels my creativity. In 2024 we opened our first Antonina Poppy boutique here in Florence and I joined Luisa via Roma as a designer, marking an exciting new chapter in my journey but no matter where my work takes me, my goal remains the same: to create pieces that feel timeless, personal and full of meaning.

"Antonina's fashion portfolio is impressive too. While creating and growing her own brand, she is working at the Italian fashion house, Vivetta. Antonina made her debut in the industry at the prestigious of IRIS VAN HERPEN to ALEXANDER WANG.”

— Scarlett Baker, The Perfect Magazine