My career as a fashion designer began very early, at the age of 21. After spending several years creating designs for myself, my family, and my friends, I was discovered by a local company in Bari, southern Italy, where I started my journey as a fashion designer while still completing my studies in fashion. This was a pivotal moment for me because it made me realize that my vision and creative approach had great potential.
A few years later, I moved to Rome, where I worked for several companies, ranging from luxury brands to more accessible ones, including Brioni, Gattinoni, and Laltramoda, as well as smaller brands. During this time, I also had the privilege of being invited to teach at the Istituto Europeo di Design (I.E.D.), an experience that was not only professionally enriching but also personally rewarding. Teaching allowed me to share my passion with younger talents while refining my own skills and consolidating my unique style.
In 2007, I moved to London, where I still reside today. This decision radically changed my creative vision, as London encouraged me to view design through a completely different lens. The city, with its juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture like the Tower Bridge and its many Gothic churches, provided me with an endless source of inspiration. London is a unique place that combines old and new, art and innovation, and it gave me everything I needed to expand my perspective.
While living in London, I developed a deep appreciation for art deco, art nouveau, futurism, architecture, and design. The city’s vibrant energy and constant creativity pushed me to explore new cultural influences and philosophies. All of this enriched my work as a designer and creative director, allowing me to draw inspiration from everything around me and translate it into my designs.
London is also where I founded my brand, Daniele Bardis, in 2013. Since then, the brand has been well-received by buyers, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts. Over the years, the brand has continued to evolve, participating in various events, including the official London Fashion Week. In 2020, after further consolidating the brand’s identity, I decided to launch a line of bags, which has now become one of the brand’s core strengths. These designs are a fusion of retro aesthetics and contemporary innovation, featuring a distinctive silhouette and a strong DNA that reflects my creative vision.
The brand’s journey into the world of bags has introduced an architectural dimension to the designs, combining artisanal craftsmanship with a futuristic yet wearable aesthetic. Each product embodies a seamless balance of tradition and modernity, pushing boundaries while remaining true to its unique identity.
Looking ahead, we are currently working on the development of sneakers for men and women, along with new accessories. My vision doesn’t stop here—there are already future projects and collaborations with international brands on the horizon. I approach every project as a seed to be nurtured, investing time and passion to allow it to grow and flourish over time. This is only the beginning of the story, and there’s so much more to come.
To be continued…
