Born in Italy, yet choosing to live in Paris for the majority of her life, Gabriella Cortese has created a stunning brand truly inspired by her passions and experiences. Infatuated with travel from an early age, she left home at 18 to discover what she considered to be the unearthed beauties of the world, capturing their subtle nuances and geographically different methods of craftsmanship in her clothing line – Antik Batik. From Bali to Tibet she handpicked her favourite elements of local design, melding them all into a rich global tapestry, her garments seemingly acting as some sort of sacred trousseau made of the finest silks, to be worn on the body like a visual diary. From Peruvian stitching to Indian embroidery and even Pakistani tannery, the pieces are steeped in cultural diversity, making for an authentic and heartfelt collection.

With the birth of her daughter, Nicola, she became inspired to launch a children’s range, which she did in 2001. Now looking towards menswear and home decor, there is no path that Gabrielle leaves unexplored.

"I wanted to create a fashionable traveller who plunges into her past and rediscover the treasures of an old trunk, pieces that evoke childhood memories or parties of the Roaring Twenties. " – Gabriella Cortese

Where To Buy: Antik Batik currently have seven international standalone stores, based in France, Ibiza, Germany, Dubai and Kuwait, there are plans to open further stores in the US and Asia in the near future. The brand is also available online at FarFetch, My Wardrobe, Net-a-Porter, The Outnet, Stylebop and YOOX.

Owner: Gabriella Cortese

Lines: R-T-W Womenswear, R-T-W Childrenswear