Introducing Rosa Ribelle

A new lingerie brand designed by Samantha Rose Pontillo

 

 

Where did the idea for starting a lingerie brand come from?

 

I’ve worked in the fashion industry my entire career but it wasn’t until I began working in lingerie specifically that I felt I finally found where I belonged. My already existent passion for lingerie grew immediately and it really began to become a part of my identity, even my profile on social media used to say “the lingerie lady”. I was running a boutique and operations for a French brand in Manhattan, it really became my second home and I became immersed in the world of lingerie. Watching customers who came in perhaps a little shy and leave with a new found confidence and shopping bag full of lace goodies was inspiring. For me lingerie wasn’t just an indulgence or something pretty, it was empowering. A well fitting piece of lingerie has the power to make you carry yourself differently, knowing underneath it all you were wearing something incredible.

 

As the years went on I worked in other areas of the business and the idea of my own brand kept following me. I had so many ideas for what I wanted to see in the lingerie world and I knew I was equipped with a uniquely well rounded experience in the industry. Once I started mapping out the plan for Rosa Ribelle it all flowed so easily, I knew exactly who I was selling to and why the brand should exist. After that, things really started to fall into place in a very natural way.

 

So why does the brand exist? What is your brand ethos?

 

Customers are looking for a connection and an experience when they shop, especially online where it is harder to really know who a brand is or what their intentions are. I wanted to create something that felt intentional and thoughtful, not just another mass produced brand churning out fashionable styles on a cycle. The brand challenges this idea of fast fashion in a few ways; for one we are creating 1-2 small collections each season in limited quantities. Once our pieces sell out we will not produce more, only bringing back popular styles if it feels right. Secondly, we are producing our pieces in Leon, Mexico with a team of trusted and highly skilled women in a small atelier. We are a part of the entire process of our production and we are excited to be able to share that with our customers. Lingerie is very personal and we believe how, where and why it’s made is just as important an aspect as how the final piece fits and makes you feel.

 

Our brand ethos is simple, we want you to feel glamorous, everyday. I love Old Hollywood, I love vintage style and of course, glamour. So what we really mean is we want you to embody that side of yourself everyday, it doesn’t have to be saved for a special occasion. Each day, no matter how routine can feel a little more fabulous when you choose your lingerie for the day and it’s Rosa Ribelle.

 

What is the inspiration for your first collection?

 

Of course our first collection is called La Rosa. Rose is my middle name, the name of my father’s mother who I loved and admired very much. I’ve also always thought roses were so beautiful but more interesting than anything else. People see them as a symbol of romance, femininity, a classic choice for Valentine’s Day, etc. But I’ve learned that although roses are iconic, soft and lovely to look at, they also represent sensuality and mystery. Our first collection plays with that dichotomy of something sweet but sultry. The collection is vintage inspired, flattering silhouettes with luxurious silk and an intriguing lace pattern. The shapes we chose intentionally draw your eye to the way the pieces form on the body in a unique and inviting way.

 

Why Rosa Ribelle?

 

Rebellious Rose, it really tells the story that we all have many layers. I wanted to create a brand universe that feels like you can be your authentic self, whichever part of you that is for the day. Our lingerie will be designed to be a part of your every day ritual, we believe who you are begins underneath it all.

 

What are you most excited for in the future of the brand?

 

My hope is that Rosa Ribelle resonates with a community of lingerie lovers and we can grow the brand together to be something inspiring and special. I’m so excited to release this first collection but I’m anxious to start creating all the styles in my mind and bringing my mood boards to life. As the brand grows I want to explore more ways we can be sustainable and impactful for our industry, our community and our environment. I’m ready to really begin this journey and design for all the Rosa Ribelles. 🌹