I recently returned from a visit to the Vitra Design Museum and Fondation Beyeler and found myself completely energized by the burst of creativity I encountered—from Tadao Ando and Zaha Hadid to Jean Prouvé and Ettore Sottsass. Each of these brilliant minds, many sadly no longer with us, shattered boundaries to fully realize their artistic visions, be it through architecture or design. Today, I’m dedicating this piece to Ettore Sottsass.

Why Sottsass?

Because his work connects deeply with my own life story, particularly through the iconic Valentine typewriter he designed for Olivetti in 1969. My father began his career at Olivetti, and his passion for architecture and design had a profound influence on me from an early age. My mother’s Italian roots have increasingly resonated with me as I grow older, and Italy, for me, is the true cradle of design. My parents, with their youthful and modest means, surrounded themselves with objects imbued with meaning—from Philippe Starck’s iconic lemon squeezer to an Eames chair, and notably, a champagne bucket designed by Ettore Sottsass. These were not merely functional objects but pieces that brought something more, an aesthetic and thoughtful presence, into daily life.

A Polymath of Design

Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck, Austria, in 1917 to an Austrian mother and an Italian father who was himself an architect. Sottsass was a polymath: painter, architect, industrial designer, jewelry designer (pieces often crafted lovingly for his wife), and ceramicist. His multidisciplinary approach deeply resonates with me.

Sottsass’s work, recognizable by its bold originality, demands a certain maturity to fully appreciate. His "Carlton" bookcase, which I glimpsed in a video of Jean-Charles de Castelbajac’s apartment and notably also featured in Karl Lagerfeld’s fully Memphis-styled Monaco apartment, exemplifies his irreverent, unorthodox spirit. The Memphis Group, co-founded by Sottsass in the early 1980s, was an influential design collective known for its vibrant colors, exaggerated geometric shapes, and playful approach that challenged the minimalism and functionalism dominant at the time. With its playful anthropomorphic form, the Carlton bookcase challenged conventional functionalism by also serving as a room divider, revolutionizing domestic logic.

A Designer Without Limits

Sottsass admired artists such as Picasso and was always vocal about the artistic influences that enriched his vision. He was a true pioneer in designer-brand collaborations, partnering notably with Olivetti and Alessi, decades ahead of his time. Sottsass often referred to his creations as "small architectures," blurring the lines between industrial design and architectural philosophy.

What deeply moves me about Sottsass’s universe is his relentless freedom of exploration. Without self-imposed barriers, he confidently navigated through diverse disciplines, always with conviction and clear intention. His creations, whether they be ceramics or elaborate jewelry, mirrored a profound understanding of materials and aesthetics.

Breaking Rules in Technicolor

What I especially admire about Sottsass is how authentically he broke the rules, reflecting his personality and creative journey. With Memphis Group, he fundamentally challenged the functionalist principles dominating design, employing extravagant forms and bold colors that went entirely against minimalist trends. The Carlton bookcase perfectly embodies this provocative attitude, challenging accepted norms and embracing a playful irreverence.

He questioned traditional boundaries between disciplines, blending architecture, ceramics, jewelry, and industrial design into a radical, unconventional practice. Sottsass saw design as a dialogue with life itself, far from the predictable, standardized products typical of the industry. His collaborations with iconic brands like Olivetti and Alessi disrupted the status quo, proving design could be simultaneously functional, expressive, and meaningful.

Sottsass wrote, "Doing design doesn’t mean giving shape to a more or less silly product for a more or less luxurious industry. For me, design is a way of discussing life." This perspective perfectly encapsulates his creative ethos—bold, free, and ever questioning.

My Favorite Pieces

Among my favorite pieces by Sottsass:

The Diva Mirror: Bold colors and shapes, it invites active participation, blending narcissism and art in a whimsical design.
The Carlton bookcase: Iconic and revolutionary, it represents the vibrant spirit of Memphis, pushing the limits of design and functionality.

Alessi Champagne Cooler and Pepper Grinder: Everyday items turned into timeless, sculptural pieces, reflecting Sottsass’s unique blend of practicality and aesthetic daring.

Ultrafragola Mirror: This sinuously shaped mirror-lamp from his "grey furniture" series (1970) embodies humor and sensuality. Sottsass humorously described its glowing fiberglass structure as reminiscent of otherworldly and erotic luminescence.

Callimaco Lamp: A symbol of radical design, with its playful colors and geometric precision that elevate a functional object into an artistic statement.

Hera Lamp: A modern reinterpretation of the traditional desk lamp, characterized by bold colors and a clear geometric structure.

Sparking Meaningful Dialogues

Reflecting on Ettore Sottsass’s life and creations, I am inspired not just by his aesthetic courage but also by his insistence on living and designing authentically. In embracing objects that mean something to us, we echo Sottsass’s core belief—that good design isn’t merely about function or beauty, but about sparking meaningful dialogues with life itself.

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Long before Elsa Peretti’s iconic Bone Cuffs wrapped themselves around the wrists of celebrities and influencers, I was already captivated. There was something about the sensuality of her silver, the purity of her forms, the quiet confidence of her work that spoke to me. It wasn’t about sparkle or status—it was about presence.

Peretti didn’t design for spectacle. She distilled essence. Whether drawing inspiration from a scorpion’s curve or a simple bean pod, she had this magical ability to turn observation into poetry. Her jewelry wasn’t just beautiful—it was visceral. You wanted to wear it, of course. But more than that, you wanted to feel it. “L’esthétique me tue,” she once said. “Aesthetics kill me.” That obsessive pursuit of perfection—never flashy, always precise—is what makes her work still feel modern in 2025.

Elsa Peretti: A Life Between Art, Jewelry, and Freedom

When Elsa joined Tiffany & Co. in 1974, she didn’t just launch a collection—she revolutionized a brand. Until then, sterling silver had been considered too common, too “everyday” for fine jewelry. Elsa flipped that notion on its head.

With creations like the Bean, the Bone Cuff, the Open Heart, and Diamonds by the Yard, she brought a new philosophy to luxury: one that celebrated accessibility, simplicity, and feminine autonomy. These weren’t heirlooms to be locked away. They were for everyday heroines. For the woman buying for herself, not waiting for someone else to decide she deserved it.

Even now, fifty years later, Tiffany’s archives remain steeped in her influence—and in 2025, the house continues to celebrate her legacy with reissues that feel as fresh as ever.

Inspiration Found in the Natural and the Everyday

Elsa Peretti’s creative process was tactile, almost primal. She drew inspiration from the world around her—bones, beans, scorpions, raindrops. But it wasn’t mimicry. She had a sculptor’s touch, simplifying forms until they were timeless and universal.

Her Bottle pendant? Inspired by a flea-market find. Her Scorpion necklace? Born from the creatures that roamed near her Spanish home. She believed in creating with intention, in materials that resonated emotionally and physically. “Jewelry is not fashion,” she once declared. “It has to last, not be discarded as soon as something else comes along.”

She also believed in craftsmanship. She collaborated with master artisans—from Japanese lacquerers (for the Sevillana collection with its 70-step finishing process) to Indian silversmiths. Hers was a global practice, rooted in respect for tradition, yet unmistakably modern.

Between New York and Sant Martí Vell

New York gave Elsa her stage, but it was in the small Catalan village of Sant Martí Vell that she found her soul. There, far from the city’s glitter, she restored ruins, cultivated vineyards, and protected local heritage. This quiet, rural life—so opposite her glamorous New York persona—was a vital part of her balance.

She lived between two worlds: fashion’s frenetic energy and the earth’s grounded rhythm. At Sant Martí Vell, she hosted artists, friends, and legends like Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli. But she also wandered alone, soaking up the forms and textures that would become her next designs.

Her relationship with the land wasn’t just personal—it was creative. The region’s curves and contrasts appeared in her work. Her Scorpion designs are a direct result of the natural world that surrounded her.

A Legacy That Still Shines

Elsa Peretti passed away in 2021, but her legacy only grows. In 2025, Tiffany is celebrating the 50th anniversary of their collaboration—an extraordinary milestone. Museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum now showcase her pieces not just as adornment, but as art.

Her work—whether it’s the Open Heart, the Bean, or the Bone Cuff—continues to inspire not just designers, but anyone navigating the intersection of individuality and beauty. She taught us that style isn’t about status. It’s about soul.

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And this legacy still lives and evolves. I highly recommend watching this video by stylist Kate Young, who reflects on the timeless appeal of Elsa Peretti’s designs, how they shaped modern jewelry, and why they still matter today:

The Pieces I Keep Coming Back To

It’s hard to pick favorites, but a few of Elsa’s creations feel particularly personal to me:

The Bone Cuff—both sensual and sculptural. I love how it conforms to the body like it was meant to be there. → See it on Tiffany

The Open Heart Hoop Earrings → See it on Tiffany

The Open Bottle pendant, famously worn by Carine Roitfeld—elegant with a whisper of rebellion. → See it on Tiffany

The High Tide earrings—gentle waves in silver that echo the sea. → See it on Tiffany

The Snake Necklace—a stunning 925 sterling silver piece → See it on Tiffany

Each of these pieces reminds me why I fell in love with Elsa Peretti in the first place. Not because they follow trends, but because they follow truth—hers and mine.

More Than a Designer

Elsa Peretti wasn’t just a jewelry designer. She was a pioneer. A storyteller in silver. A woman who walked away from comfort and redefined what luxury could look—and feel—like.

From Florence to New York, from Tiffany to the Catalan countryside, she built a life and legacy rooted in courage, curiosity, and creativity. She showed us that style—real style—isn’t about ornament. It’s about intention.

And in a world still obsessed with the new, Elsa Peretti remains, beautifully, eternal.

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In the realm of creativity, where boundaries dissolve and innovation thrives, two names resonate profoundly: Helmut Lang and Louise Bourgeois. Though hailing from different domains—Lang from fashion and Bourgeois from art—both embody the essence of style that transcends mere aesthetics. As part of our "Icons of Style Beyond Fashion" series, let’s delve into how these visionaries have redefined personal expression and reshaped the landscapes they occupied.

Helmut Lang: From Runway to Art Gallery

Helmut Lang’s journey is as unconventional as his designs. As one of the most influential fashion designers of the 1990s, Lang didn’t just dress people; he challenged them to rethink clothing as a form of self-expression. But in 2005, he shocked the industry by walking away from fashion entirely. For Lang, this wasn’t an end but a metamorphosis.

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The Fashion Revolutionary

Lang’s approach to fashion was always ahead of its time. Known for his minimalist designs, he rejected excess in favor of clean lines and functionality. Yet his work carried an emotional depth, as if each piece whispered a narrative. His innovation extended beyond clothing; he was the first designer to livestream a runway show, a bold move that fused technology and art.

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What truly stands out to me is Lang’s ability to turn fashion into an experience. His boutiques weren’t just places to shop; they were immersive spaces that invited reflection. It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with me—style isn’t just what you wear; it’s how you live and connect.

The Artist Reborn

Post-fashion, Lang reinvented himself as an artist, literally destroying his archives to create sculptures from their remnants. This act of transformation—taking what once defined him and turning it into something entirely new—feels profoundly courageous. His sculptures, often stark and haunting, explore themes of memory and void, reminding us that destruction can be a precursor to creation.

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Louise Bourgeois: Sewing Together Trauma and Beauty

If Helmut Lang redefined the future, Louise Bourgeois delved deep into the past. Her art, deeply personal and unapologetically raw, explored themes of memory, family, and the human condition. Like Lang, Bourgeois saw beyond the surface, using unconventional materials to tell stories that linger in the mind long after viewing.

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A Childhood in Threads

Bourgeois’s connection to textiles began in her childhood, working in her family’s tapestry restoration workshop. For her, fabric was more than material; it was memory, comfort, and sometimes, a source of pain. She once said, “Clothing is… an exercise of memory. It makes me explore the past.” This sentiment resonates with anyone who has ever found solace or nostalgia in a piece of clothing.

Her later works, such as the “Cells” series, incorporated old clothing to evoke intimacy and vulnerability. Walking through these installations, one can’t help but feel enveloped by her world—a realm of fragmented memories and raw emotions.

The Spider and the Self

Bourgeois’s most iconic motif, the spider, encapsulates her duality. She likened spiders to her mother: deliberate, patient, and indispensable. These massive sculptures are both protective and menacing, embodying the complex dynamics of familial relationships. They’re a reminder that style isn’t just visual; it’s emotional and symbolic, deeply tied to our personal narratives.

A Meeting of Minds

Lang and Bourgeois shared more than their artistic sensibilities; they shared a friendship that enriched their creative journeys. In 1997, their collaboration began with a portrait of Bourgeois for Lang’s campaign, shot by Bruce Weber. The synergy between them was palpable—two visionaries using their mediums to explore themes of identity, transformation, and the human experience.

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Lang once remarked on Bourgeois’s strength and focus, qualities that inspired his own artistic endeavors. Their mutual respect highlights an important lesson: true style isn’t about competition; it’s about collaboration and shared exploration.

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Lessons in Style Beyond Fashion

From Lang’s minimalist creations to Bourgeois’s evocative sculptures, both icons teach us that style is far more than what meets the eye. It’s about intention, transformation, and the courage to be unapologetically authentic. As I reflect on their journeys, I’m reminded of how style, in all its forms, is a powerful language—one that speaks to who we are and who we aspire to be.

So, who inspires your sense of style beyond fashion? Share your thoughts and join the conversation as we continue to explore the lives and legacies of those who redefine what it means to be iconic.

In the world of technology, few figures have managed to leave as indelible a mark as Steve Jobs. Known for his visionary ideas and uncompromising commitment to simplicity, Jobs’ influence extended far beyond the devices he introduced to the world. His iconic wardrobe—a black turtleneck, Levi’s 501 jeans, and New Balance sneakers—transcended mere clothing to become a symbol of innovation, authenticity, and personal branding. As we launch our series "Icons of Style Beyond Fashion," we explore how this minimalist uniform not only defined Jobs but also reshaped perceptions of leadership in the modern era.

Now, let’s return to Steve Jobs because there are incredibly inspiring elements in how he discovered and embodied his style "beyond fashion."

The Birth of an Iconic Look

The story of Steve Jobs’s uniform begins in an unlikely place: Sony’s headquarters in Japan. During a visit in the 1980s, Jobs was struck by the uniforms worn by Sony employees, designed by the renowned Japanese fashion innovator Issey Miyake. These uniforms symbolized unity and identity within the company. Inspired, Jobs initially sought to replicate this concept at Apple, but his proposal was met with resistance from employees. Instead, he turned inward, asking Miyake to create a personal uniform—and thus, the iconic black turtleneck was born.

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As Jobs recounted in his biography, Miyake made him “a hundred of them,” ensuring that this signature garment would last a lifetime. Jobs’s choice was more than practical; it was deeply intentional. It eliminated the need for daily wardrobe decisions, a nod to his belief in conserving mental energy for more important tasks—a concept now widely recognized as combating "decision fatigue."

A Wardrobe Rooted in Philosophy

Jobs’s uniform wasn’t just about simplicity; it was an outward manifestation of his core values. Each element—from the turtleneck to the sneakers—reflected principles that also guided Apple’s design ethos.

The Black Turtleneck

Designed by Miyake, this garment became a symbol of creativity and intellectual rigor. Its understated elegance mirrored Apple’s aesthetic: sleek, functional, and timeless. Jobs’s decision to adopt the turtleneck—a garment often associated with intellectualism and countercultural movements—positioned him as an innovator unbound by traditional corporate norms.

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Levi’s 501 Jeans

Casual yet classic, Levi’s 501 jeans embodied a sense of accessibility. For Jobs, they weren’t just comfortable; they were also a nod to durability and craftsmanship. These jeans aligned perfectly with his vision of creating products that were not only beautiful but also built to last.

New Balance Sneakers

Jobs’s New Balance sneakers, particularly the 990 series, reflected his appreciation for quality and functionality. Manufactured in the U.S., they also hinted at his preference for authenticity and ethical production practices—values that resonate with Apple’s commitment to innovation and responsibility.

The Power of Consistency

By committing to this uniform, Jobs crafted a personal brand that was as consistent and recognizable as the Apple logo itself. This visual identity served multiple purposes. It differentiated him from traditional corporate executives clad in suits and ties, projecting a message of approachability and focus on innovation. It also reinforced his belief in minimalism, a principle that permeated every product Apple released under his leadership.

A Cultural Ripple Effect

Jobs’s sartorial choices didn’t just influence Apple employees or the tech industry. They set a precedent for other leaders, including Mark Zuckerberg and Barack Obama, who adopted simplified wardrobes to reduce decision fatigue and emphasize their focus on work over appearances. Today, the concept of a personal uniform has gained traction across industries, championed by creatives and executives alike.

Beyond the Clothes

Jobs’s style wasn’t about vanity or trends—it was an extension of his philosophy. His wardrobe choices reflected his dedication to simplicity, efficiency, and authenticity. They also underscored a deeper truth: leadership isn’t about blending in; it’s about standing out with intention and purpose.

Even now, more than a decade after his passing, Jobs’s black turtleneck remains a cultural artifact. It’s a reminder of how a seemingly mundane choice—what to wear—can resonate on a global scale when aligned with a greater vision.

Lessons for Leaders

For leaders looking to make an impact, the takeaway is clear: authenticity matters. Whether it’s through your words, actions, or even your wardrobe, consistency and intentionality can transform how you’re perceived and the legacy you leave behind.

As we continue exploring "Icons of Style Beyond Fashion," Steve Jobs sets the benchmark. His approach to personal branding—grounded in simplicity and innovation—offers timeless lessons for anyone seeking to lead with clarity and purpose. Because, as Jobs proved, true style is about much more than fashion; it’s about embodying who you are, every single day.

Join the Conversation

Who do you think has embodied a style that truly reflects who they are on the inside? Are there figures you believe should be featured in the "Icons of Style Beyond Fashion" series? Share your thoughts and suggestions—your ideas might just inspire the next feature!