About us
In the spring of 1937, a spirited sixteen-year-old girl named Marietta left her coastal Mediterranean home for the city of Milan, Italy. Her father, a wealthy confectionery producer and distributor, had arranged for her to study the art of millinery under one of the most esteemed ateliers of the time—Gallia e Peter, located on Via Montenapoleone 3.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, hats and bonnets—especially the romantic Eugénie style—were more than fashion statements; they were considered essential in every woman’s wardrobe. Millinery thrived across Europe, with Parisian and Italian modistes shaping trends and commanding reverence, often addressed simply as "Madame."
Her father envisioned a future for Marietta as a master milliner, with plans to open a fashion atelier upon her return. But Marietta had her own dreams. Though she embraced her journey to Milan with an adventurous heart, she quickly discovered she had no love for hats. Her true desire was to become a different kind of modiste—one who dressed women elegantly, simply, and impeccably.
That opportunity arrived when she met Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel at a gathering in Milan. Gabrielle—already an icon of style—was taken by the young girl's joyful spirit and shared passion for clean, uncluttered couture sewn to perfection. She offered Marietta a position in her embroidery workshop and lovingly nicknamed her "Marietta la Bella"—Marietta the Beautiful.
In the years that followed, especially after the war, Marietta La Bella carried forward Coco Chanel’s relentless pursuit of perfection, pairing it with her own vision of delicate femininity—expressed through sweet ruffles, soft florals, and precise tailoring. Her legacy of grace, strength, and timeless style continues to inspire everything we do.
Marietta La Bella was my grandmother. This boutique is a heartfelt tribute to her beautiful and creative soul.
While times have changed, my mission remains aligned with hers: to help every woman who believes in herself dress simply, beautifully, and confidently.
At Marietta La Bella, we celebrate femininity as a timeless and powerful force. My dream is to build a warm, welcoming community of women who feel seen, loved, and empowered. A place where true beauty begins with self-love, and is elevated through thoughtful design and perfectly tailored fits that honor the natural elegance of the feminine form.
Thank you, dear friends, for supporting not only my dream and my grandmother’s legacy, but also the dedication of our team. We are honored to dress you.
With gratitude and grace,
Be Blessed.
