Nicole Spiller

By Nicole Spiller

March 19, 2025

Nicole Spiller, a 21-year-old from Vicenza, is a talented and passionate young woman with a deep love for both fashion and ballet. After dedicating 10 years to dance, including time at the Paris Opera, she chose to pursue her ultimate dream in fashion design. She just recently graduated from IUAD, Accademia della Moda Milano, specialising in Fashion Design. With a determined and creative spirit, she aspires to blend her artistic background with her love for style to leave a mark in the fashion industry. Additionally, she is deeply committed to sustainability, striving to incorporate ecological and ethical principles into her work.

21 may 2023. A significant date, one that many would rather forget. For me, the undersigned, nothing is to be forgotten, not even the negative things in life. My brain has erased the moment of impact leaving me with no memory of that afternoon. I woke up around 9.15pm in Monza hospital in intensive care unit, surrounded by people who truly loved me. It is precisely from these things that you understand who you can count on and who you can trust. While spending my days in hospital I never gave up. I longed to returned home, recover and continue my studies. I decided to turn this episode into a fashion project, a testament to how even the worst situations can lead to something meaningful. I gained clarity about what I want to do in life, I learnt how to manage my life, where to invest time, and where not to. I came to understand what truly matters, letting go of anything that wastes my time! Now, I live to the fullest, and embrace life with joy, because tomorrow is never granted. And I’m happier, more joyful than before.

For my project my vision was clear, and to represent this focus I have drawn inspiration from one of my favorite designers: John Galliano of Maison Margiela. I have worked exclusively with 100% natural fabrics, yarns and fillings. To leave a distinctive mark, I have embroidered my garments, creating patterns and modules that have been repeatedly reflected throughout each outfit.

Maeko Tessuti & Filati Naturali originated from Mauro Vismara’s passion for hemp fiber. In 1998, he transitioned from osteopathy to natural fabric production. Combining his interest in natural resources with fashion’s ethical needs, Mauro aimed to offer innovative alternatives. Through meticulous study and interpretation of natural yarns, he crafted unique weaves and

fabrics. Maeko prioritises enhancing fibers’ natural characteristics via modern finishing treatments for softer, more appealing textures. Vertical integration led to a dedicated dyeing space, ensuring GOTS certified colours’ widespread use and compliance with safety regulations like R.E.A.C.H. In Como, a technical dyeing depart- ment emerged, offering services for both Maeko’s production and the fashion/furniture sector. Services like Lab Dip and limited production dyes cater to industry demands, emphasising quality and customisation.