Our Story

Our Story

I was born and raised in South America, the daughter of an immigrant father, with strong Italian culture and language at the heart of our home. From a young age, I felt a deep connection to something more, something extra that set me apart. I spoke another language, lived a lifestyle, and enjoyed food that was different from those around me.

 

This multicultural identity has always defined who I am. When I moved to Italy, my Brazilian heritage became that “something extra.” When I later moved to the U.S., I carried both my Italian and Latino roots with pride. The hardest question to answer was always, “Where are you from?” My response would shift depending on the context because my identity was a mix of so many influences.

 

These diverse backgrounds have shaped my fashion choices throughout my life. I’ve always loved adding unique elements to my looks—whether it was a vintage t-shirt my dad brought back from Italy, something my mom saved from the ’60s, or a treasured find from one of my trips to Italy. My backpack, pens, pencil box, and shoes were often different because they came from Italy. We didn’t travel to Europe often, but when we did, I returned with items I cherished for years. Now as an adult, my house is filled with items I find around the world.

 

When I decided to leave behind my Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur life and become a fashion founder, it quickly became clear what unique value I could bring to my brand: my multicultural heritage. One phrase from Christian Louboutin illuminated this for me: “When we come from different cultures, different backgrounds, we are not divided, we are multiplied.”

 

That is exactly what I want to achieve with ZIPPERLY collections. I aim to bring different cultures together, creating something multiplied and unique.

 

Our first leather bags are made in Italy, celebrating the rich Italian craftsmanship and heritage. Our initial jewelry pieces are crafted by talented artisans in Brazil. Our symbol is the Bird of Paradise flower- bold, colorful, and proud. Just like our brand, it thrives in both Brazil and California. And I’m adding the American spirit into every design. 

 

My hope is to continue exploring the world and incorporating a bit of every culture into our future collections.

 

I invite you to join me on this journey!

 

With love,

Silvia