While most people make it a point to keep up with the latest trends in the fashion market, the home space didn't receive as much attention until recently. Taking note of this positive change, Fiammetta Maggio together with her daughter Tanitha Pereira decided to launch Bottega Pereira about five years ago in Chennai.
A private label of Pereira's International Pvt Ltd, an export company of home textiles, based in Chennai and run by her husband Gerard Pereira since 1980, Bottega Pereirais collection ranges from table linen, kitchen linen, curtains, bed-linen, cushions etc mainly in cotton, linen, voile and cotton blend. Bottega means workshop in Italian ( Fiammetta hails from Italy) while Pereira is the family name.
" Bottega Pereira was started for the local market. The idea was to first test the market around India and get feedback from different parts of the country. We have already had a sale in Mumbai before this. As my husband hails from Goa, we knew we had to come down here as well," says Fiammetta, who learnt everything about textiles on the job. "Home textiles is something that you have to like in general. For me whenever I travel, I always end up in a textile shop and it grew on me," she says.
As they were used to the international market, catering to a local market was something that they had to get used to and learn about. " The size chart in India is completely different. Also, there are many changes across different states. For instance in Chennai they have bigger houses with twelve-seater tables. But when you come to Mumbai you are not likely to find many of these," says Tanitha.
Along with creating a line exclusive to Indian needs, they also aim at making home fashion, something enjoyable for all age groups. "It shouldn't be that only the parents come over and buy for the entire house. We want to make it a fun experience for everyone and make them realise that homeware represents the individuality of a person. Keeping it pocket friendly is also key for us," adds Tanitha.Alongside this, the brand ensure that quality standards are maintained.
Once, things fall into place, Bottega Pereira hopes to expand into other products like toiletries and home accessories and transform into a lifestyle brand. "The plan is to open a store something down the line but for now we operate through pop-ups," says Tanitha with a smile.
(Bottega Pereira is showcasing their exclusive line for the first time in Goa till September 10 at the Meneses Residence Fontainhas)
