Loretta Caponi

A Bottega of Dreams in Florence

Stepping into Loretta Caponi’s bottega in Florence feels like opening a trousseau from another time. The shelves are lined with intricately embroidered linens for the bed and table, along with delicate nightclothes for women and children. These are heirloom-quality pieces, designed to be treasured and passed down, brought out for holidays and cherished family moments.

The bottega’s embroidery is deeply rooted in Florentine tradition. Its founder, Loretta Caponi, began hand-embroidering at the age of nine and was creating bespoke nightgowns and lingerie for discerning clients by 14. In 1967, she opened her atelier in a former piano warehouse on Via delle Belle Donne, where it remains today, filled with antiques collected by the family over decades.

A close up image of a work desk with an artisan's hands working on monogram lettering. One hand draws a cursive L while the other hand is spread across the paper.

The Work

While Loretta Caponi has garnered recognition in the fashion world, the house remains steadfast in its commitment to slow craftsmanship, honoring its founder’s mastery of needlepoint and embroidery. Each bespoke piece is meticulously hand-stitched, with production remaining entirely in-house to preserve its rich heritage.

For our collaboration with Old Stone Trade, we drew inspiration from traditional Italian school uniforms and rare archival pieces. The result is a collection of timeless treasures, designed to be cherished and passed down through generations.