We recently connected with Maurizio Bortolussi and have shared our conversation below.

Maurizio , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I learned through a mix of hands-on experience, mentorship, and pure curiosity. My foundation came from studying fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design, and immersing myself in design, but a lot of what I do today—especially working with exotic leathers—came from trial, error, and observation. My time interning at House of Fleming was key. It taught me the value of craftsmanship, precision, and respect for materials. From there, I started experimenting on my own, pushing boundaries and developing my own aesthetic and construction methods.
Looking back, I would have trusted my instincts earlier. When you start, you tend to second-guess yourself or wait for “permission” to try new things. I realize now that experimentation is where growth happens. I also would have sought out more specialized artisans sooner—people who have decades of experience with certain materials or techniques. Learning directly from them accelerates everything.
Definitely patience, attention to detail, and discipline. Working with exotic leather isn’t just design—it’s technical and unforgiving. Every cut, stitch, and edge finish matters. Beyond that, understanding form and proportion in fashion, and how materials behave, has been crucial. And of course, having an eye for design and a sense of storytelling—because each Bortolussi piece carries a narrative, not just a function.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Maurizio Bortolussi, a fashion designer and craftsman behind the brand Bortolussi, where fashion meets artisan precision. Influenced by my Italian and Mexican heritage, my work blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, creating pieces that are both timeless and expressive.

My journey began with a deep appreciation for artistry and evolved during my time at House of Fleming, where I learned the discipline and respect required to work with exotic leathers. That experience shaped my vision for Bortolussi—a brand dedicated to individuality, cultural depth, and lasting craftsmanship.

Bortolussi offers bespoke and limited pieces, from unisex garments to handcrafted exotic leather accessories. What sets the brand apart is our belief that true luxury lies in uniqueness. Every creation tells a story—crafted to connect emotionally, not just visually.

Above all, I’m proud that Bortolussi represents authenticity and intention. Each piece is made to endure, to express, and to carry a sense of identity that transcends trends.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my audience on social media has always been about consistency, creativity, and courage. Early on, I realized that beautiful content alone isn’t enough—you have to reach out, engage, and keep going. Some of my collaborations with artists like TrouBle, YFN Lucci, Alemán, and SonReal started simply by messaging them on Instagram, replying to their stories, and staying persistent without being pushy. My advice to anyone starting out is simple: be bold, be authentic, and don’t get discouraged. The connections you make directly online can open doors you never expected.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative for me is bringing ideas to life in a way that resonates with people. Whether it’s a garment or a handcrafted exotic leather accessory, seeing someone connect with a piece I’ve poured thought, skill, and emotion into is incredibly fulfilling. For me, it’s not just about making something beautiful—it’s about creating an experience, a story, and a sense of identity that others can carry with them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Bortolussi.us
• Instagram: @official.bortolussi
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/maurizio-bortolussi