Glamouria - From Architecture to Elegance: Inside Antonio Riva’s World By Hayat Ammouri

Italian designer Antonio Riva’s journey started as an architect, but his heart was always with bridal fashion. “wedding dresses were always my passion”, he tells us, and that passion led him to where he is today. A design evolution that now carries not only bridal gowns but also formal and special occasions dresses.

We met Antonio in Milan during Milan Fashion Week where he shared with us about his vision for the brand, what keeps him successful and his dreams for what’s next.

What is your signature? What would me make me recognise the Antonio Riva touch instantly?

We just opened in Tokyo…I think it all comes down to Mikado. My signature would be the use of Mikado in different ways… It’s a principal element in my collections.

You studied architecture. Does it inspire you when designing your collections?

Absolutely. I like to bring architectural structure in my design but in a very feminine way. The end result is usually very elegant. 

Who is the woman who wears Antonio Riva?

She’s modern and dynamic. A woman who manages to take time for herself and celebrates her femininity despite all her commitments with family and work.

What do you think makes a woman elegant?

A woman who reflects her own personality. A woman who keeps it simple! Simplicity is elegance.

How do you maintain your success?

Everything we do is Made in Italy. We have our own factories and we doit all in-house. We create everything: from the fabrics we use to the final product. Most importantly we maintain a very high quality which is necessary to our success. 

What do you think of the Made in Italy now that the fashion scene is witnessing major changes and after the departure of iconic Italian fashion figures?

There is a revolution for sure, and no, I don’t like it… That’s the reality! I am glad that at Antonio Riva we manage to maintain our autonomy and traditions.

What’s next for Antonio Riva?

What I really want to happen next is New York! After Tokyo, now I dream of New York.

Why New York?

New York is a city that I love. I lived there, and even though these are not easy times now, I would love to have my maison there soon. As for future dreams, I hope we keep on working as we do and we stay a House that doesn’t follow the rules. 

Antonio Riva’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection, The Mirage, is inspired by the iconic film stars of the 1940s and '50s- women who balanced strength and vulnerability with elegance.

The collection features fluid silhouettes, layered volumes, and precise tailoring, reflecting a confident, independent kind of femininity.