Italians are well-versed in the waste-not-want-not philosophy. Here’s proof: the iconic dishes that come from a thrifty history of leftovers–among them carbonara, polpette, and arancini. Here’s some more proof: these lightweight, chic earrings from SO-LE Studio in Milan. Formed by master Tuscan craftsmen, these statement pieces are made from pieces of Italian leather leftover from coat and bag production that would otherwise go to waste. Each pair may slightly differ from the original sample in terms of shades of color, due to its upcycled materials. Wear them from the office to aperitivo and beyond.

 

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Color: Gold

Materials: Leather, ruthenium-coated brass (nickel free)  

Dimensions: H 4,5 cm – W 4,5 cm (H 1.77 in – W 1.77 in)

Weight: 4,7 g per earring

Butterfly fastening for pierced ears

 

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Maria Sole Ferragamo founded SO-LE STUDIO with the mission to transform leftover materials such as leather and brass into unique sculptural jewelry. Since 2019, its creative HQ sits in Milan, while the production remains in Tuscany.

 

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NAME: Maria Sole Ferragamo 

LOCATION: Milan

AGE: 33

 

When and why did you decide to start SO-LE STUDIO?

 

I started making jewelry when I was a child, and it’s always been my biggest passion. I grew up in a culture of craftsmanship and, in my family, all kids worked summers doing internships at the manufacturer. That’s where I learned to love leather and work with it. 

 

That’s also where I discovered the existence of abandoned leather. The mission of SO-LE STUDIO was born: give new life to leather remnants and transform them into what I loved the most: unique jewelry. I created my first leather necklace in 2013, but it took longer to officially launch the brand. I wanted to properly study jewelry design after my architecture studies. My MA in Jewellery at CSM in London was instrumental in shaping SO-LE STUDIO’s principles and after a lot of product development and testing the market, I officially launched the brand in 2020.

 

What are your greatest inspirations?

 

I’m inspired by geometries of all scales. I see geometric patterns everywhere around me, in nature, in architecture. I often incorporate these into my creations. I look at costumes of the past, symbols of power and strength yet often very uncomfortable; they form a great contrast to my jewelry, which I thrive to make extremely comfortable and lightweight.

 

I’m also inspired by optical art; I’m fascinated by anything that isn’t what it actually is at first glance. I often transpose this art of illusion in my pieces.

 

Are there traditional or unique techniques that you incorporate into your work?

 

Over the years, I have had the fortune to work with incredible craftsmen that have been able to expand their skills and knowhow as I challenge them to work leather differently to create unique objects. 

 

I like playing with the principle of illusion. For example, the challenge of giving the material of origin features that it doesn’t naturally have–such as rigidity or elasticity, in this case.

 

We have developed special techniques that step away from traditional leather work, to achieve the illusion of pieces that look like they are made of metal when they are actually made of warm, soft, and super lightweight leather!

 

How does your cultural background contribute to your artistic expression?

 

After my degree in architecture in Milan, I decided to move to London to pursue an MA in Jewelry design. I also wanted to step away from my natural environment and cultural background to really find my own aesthetic and identity. Although I have to say that even if my creative approach is unique and singular, I remain very influenced by my cultural background in my approach to making and designing. I always strive to create pieces that are of the best quality, and love working with craftsmen that have a very Italian approach to their art: they work passionately, as much with their hands as with their hearts, while always trying to innovate, without taking “no” as a first answer to a new idea!

 

Tell us three of your favorite places in Milan.

 

The Portrait Hotel, with its beautiful, hidden square. 

 

Villa Necchi, where I love to go for lunch on a sunny day.

 

The Isola neighborhood, where you can find both the new face of Milan with buildings and skyscrapers, as well as the old neighborhood dimension with little shops, markets, and grocery stores.