Toni Mateu
Silician designer Maria Francesca Paternò has released her bridal and haute couture collection for 2012, entitled Ouverture.
The self-described ‘fashion engineer’ mixes a number of cultures, along with poetry and art, as part of her inspiration.
The collection features one-shoulder necklines reminiscent of ancient Greece, long and flowing skirts, and a nostalgic use of silk, satin and lace. Paternò’s cocktail dresses have vivid, vibrant colours. She employs only the highest quality materials and techniques.
Paternò’s atelier is named la Via della Seta, or Silk Road, paying tribute to her love of the material.
The advertising campaign was shot in Barcelona by Toni Mateu.
Paternò was mentored by designer Gianna Baragli, and had worked for several notable companies beginning in the 1970s. Her website describes her gowns as works of art ‘brought to life with sentiment and feminine sensibility.’