These silk twill scrunchies, designed exclusively for Italy Segreta, feature a geometric print available in two vibrant color combos. Tried and tested by our all-female team, they held up our hair throughout long, busy days of bringing you your favorite Italy content. Plus, the silk prevents breakage, ponytail kinks, and tangles, and helps keep your locks smooth and shiny.

The silk scrunchies are sold in matching small pouches to store them without damaging. 

Michela Pesenti is a Bergamo-based fashion designer and the creative force behind her self-titled design company. Renowned for her colorful, joyful patterns and designs, Michela creates vibrant, wearable works of art.

NAME: Michela Pesenti

LOCATION: Bergamo / Firenze

AGE: 30

When and why did you decide to start your company?

In early 2020, right when the pandemic began, I decided to quit my job and begin my lifelong dream. I was 26 years old. Excitement and fear were hand in hand, and I started working day and night on fabric designs and pattern study. In July, 2020, I presented my first capsule in Piazza Pitti in Florence. 

After my studies at Marangoni, I started working at Armani, where I organized photo shoots for all their lines. Later, I worked for Corneliani, in Mantova, where I was in charge of a whole host of things, from photo shoots to showroom presentations and organizing events to designing store windows. I used to travel a lot for work, visiting showrooms in Europe and even in New York.

The world is full of brands selling the same garments in every city in the world. I wanted to make something different and related to the concept of uniqueness and exclusivity–a contemporary style based in traditions. I try to create garments that will last, defined by simple lines and quality fabrics.

Who are your greatest inspirations?

My father and his passions are a constant source of inspiration, especially in regards to my print designs. He collects anything with a story, especially old books. My first print was inspired by a drawing of wooden inlays and mosaics found between the pages of a 1920s manual in his collection of antique books.

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

The quality of 100% Made in Italy fabrics side by side with Italian craftsmanship and tailoring allows me to focus on the details, both on the outside and on the inside of the garments, which I usually finish with hand-stitching. My garments are defined by exclusive prints, requiring several stages of work–research, pattern definition, choosing colors, proofing first on paper and then on different types of fabrics. I am always looking for the right shades.

How does your cultural background contribute to your artistic expression?

My travels and my passion for art and architecture are a constant source of inspiration. During my studies, I started keeping an up-to-date notebook where I collected anything and everything that strikes me: a piece of a fabric I found during a trip, a photo of a painting in a museum taken during my Florentine sojourns…

Tell us three of your favorite places in Bergamo.

Piazza Vecchi, specifically at 10 PM for the 100 chimes of the large bell. 

The sunset view from the upper city walls.

Lio Pellegrini, for a great dinner in a refined atmosphere.