In this interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Atelier Ferrari+Monti about their journey into the world of bespoke fashion and the passion that drives their work.
What stood out most was their genuine love for creating garments that feel personal, meaningful, and truly one-of-a-kind. In a time dominated by fast fashion and mass production, the atelier offers a refreshing approach—one that values personal connection, careful design, and garments made to last.
Through their insights, we gain a deeper understanding of what bespoke truly means today, from the creative process and client relationships to sustainability and the emotional significance behind each piece.
Background
For readers who may be new to Atelier Ferrari+Monti, could you share the story behind your atelier and what inspired you to focus on bespoke design?
Atelier Ferrari+Monti began several years ago when Cristopher and I decided to pursue our shared love of fashion by studying at the Istituto di Moda Burgo in Milan. Inspired by Cristopher’s parents and their work in their own atelier, we quickly fell in love with the craft.
While we both appreciate ready-to-wear, there is something truly special about bespoke design. Each piece is unique and deeply personal, and we find great joy in the process—watching a garment evolve from an initial idea into a finished piece that reflects both the client and our vision.
The Meaning of Bespoke Today
In an age of mass production and fast fashion, what does “bespoke” truly mean to you?
For me, bespoke is a journey with the customer. Everything starts with an idea, a few photos as reference and a quick sketch. We search for the best fabric for the project and start drafting a pattern. The end result can be very different from the original idea.
Why do you think more people are beginning to rediscover the value of clothing made specifically for them?
I think people are tired of online shopping, returning more than half of the garments because of the wrong fit for their body shape, a lack of quality in materials and making and just feeling like they are wearing the same things as everyone else.
Challenging the Perception
What misconceptions do people often have about bespoke fashion or the atelier process?
A bespoke garment can feel something very out of our comfort zone, only for weddings and once-in-a-lifetime occasions, but bespoke can be for everyday as well. A very nice fitting pair of trousers in a good fabric for everyday wear, a simple cotton shirt, a skirt with pockets or even an easy linen holiday dress.
Craftsmanship & Process
Could you walk us through what happens from the moment a client first contacts you to the final fitting?
Our making process is quite easy and simple. We start with a consultation where we discuss ideas, draw a first sketch of the garment and take measurements. As designers, we can help make all the hard decisions and guide you to achieve the best design for you. During the first fitting, we try on a toile made in lining or calico fabric, and we can make lots of different changes to the original idea. After this, we have a couple of fittings in the actual garment where we’ll decide on details and embellishments, check the fit, length and final design.
Personal Meets Creative
How do you balance artistic vision with the client’s personality, lifestyle, and comfort?
With our bespoke designs, our client is always the centre of attention. We listen to their needs and incorporate them into the design. Our ready-to-wear collection is always made to order, so our clients can add small details and tweak the design to their liking, making every piece we make truly unique.
Sustainability & Longevity
What materials or production practices do you prioritise to ensure longevity and responsibility?
We use a variety of materials, from natural fibres to man-made fabrics (mainly from dead stock suppliers). We tend to buy only what we need for a project, and for our ready-to-wear collection, we buy small batches of fabrics focusing on natural fibres like cottons, linen and wools.
How do you design pieces that remain timeless rather than tied to fleeting trends?
Our aesthetic is rooted in a classic foundation, but always with a subtle modern twist. We focus on clean lines, balanced proportions, and thoughtful details that won’t feel dated after just one season. Rather than following trends, we pay close attention to what truly suits the individual—designing pieces that feel relevant to their lifestyle and personal style both now and in the years to come.
Timeless by Design
A big part of this approach comes through in our bespoke process. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, every decision is made with longevity in mind—whether that’s the choice of fabric, the structure of a garment, or the finishing details. Our atelier and process imagery really capture this journey, showing how each piece evolves carefully over time.
This philosophy is especially important in our bridal made-to-order designs, where timelessness is essential. We want each piece to feel just as meaningful and elegant years later as it does on the day it’s worn. The same applies to our designs for mothers of the bride and groom, where we create refined, versatile garments that can be worn beyond the occasion itself.
Even within our ready-to-wear collections, which are produced in small batches and made to order in-house, we maintain this mindset—prioritising quality, wearability, and enduring style over fast-moving trends.
Emotional & Personal Dimension
What is the most meaningful part of the process for you: the design stage, the making, or seeing the finished piece worn?
The last fitting, when the client is ready to collect the garment, is always the most stressful until they try it on, and you can see on their faces that we did it, it’s what they imagined and dreamed about!
Have you created a garment with a particularly memorable story behind it?
We recently made a wedding dress and a matching corset for a bride, and during one of the fittings, she left a couple of fabric roses in the changing room for me to sew onto the corset. They belonged to her mum’s wedding dress, and she wanted to surprise her.
Advice & Reflection
For someone considering their first bespoke piece, what would you want them to know before they begin the journey?
I would suggest doing some research on materials, trying on clothes at home and in shops to see what you really like and make you feel the best. When you have endless possibilities, it becomes a bit more challenging to choose, but with a clear idea of the shape you like, colours and how you’re going to wear the garment, it becomes very easy, and the process is going to be straightforward and successful.
AND FINALLY....
Ultimately, bespoke is about more than just clothing—it’s about connection, intention, and creating something that truly reflects you. As Atelier Ferrari+Monti show, when craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and personal storytelling come together, the result is a garment that holds lasting value far beyond a single moment. In a world of fast fashion, choosing bespoke is a way to slow down, invest in quality, and wear something that feels both meaningful and enduring.
