Maria Pinto
Chances are that if you've gazed longingly at an ensemble worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Brooke Shields or Susan Sarandon and said, "I want that NOW", it was designed by Maria Pinto. Known for her unique ability to meld artisanal textiles from around the world with modern American design, Maria's designs are wearable classics with an edge that exude confidence and sophistication. Not just for celebrities, Maria creates tailored silhouettes that fit into a variety of lifestyles. Maria Pinto's collections have been featured in Vogue, Elle, InStyle, Harper's Bazaar, Town & Country and many other prominent fashion publications.
An alumna of Chicago’s School of the Art Institute, Pinto also attended New York's Parson’s School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology. Soon after graduation she landed a coveted position working for legendary designer Geoffrey Beene. Maria has received many prestigious design and fashion accolades throughout her career, including the Best of Fashion Award from Chicago Magazine (2000); and the Gold Coast Fashion Award, previously won by Anne Klein, Donna Karan and Bill Blass (1998). In 2009, Maria Pinto will receive the Legend of Fashion Award from the School of the Art Institute. The Maria Pinto Collection is available at her flagship store in Chicago, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s New York, Takashimaya and other fine boutiques across the country.
Let's peek inside the Little Black Travel Diary of Maria Pinto!
My first memory of traveling is with my first great love Bill.
I never travel without a candle, the scent reminds me of home.
My favorite destination is Bali.
The taste of Jasmine tea reminds me of
My favorite traveling companion is my best friend, Mr. Coe.
Traveling alone can be very inspirational, but choosing the right destination is key. It can create many opportunities for self discovery.
I dream of visiting India.
A film, book, or song that awakens my wanderlust is my favorite film, In The Mood For Love, by Wong Kar Wai.
My favorite traveling outfit is depending on the weather and the destination (usually Chicago to New York) my black Morgan leather coat with a cashmere wrap from my own collection, and a pair of jeans.
My most unforgettable traveling experience was after a struggle to get there, waking up Sunday morning in Hong Kong and experiencing the scent of incense throughout the city.
When I have been away from home for a long time, the thing I miss the most is my two adorable cats.
If I could travel back in time, I would go to Egypt and watch the pyramids being built.
My travel icon is Karen Blixen.
My must have beauty product when traveling is Smith’s Rosebud Salve, I can’t live without it.
My words of travel wisdom are always be prepared, for anything! Even if it sometimes leads to perpetual over packing. But you never know when your casual weekend trip might turn dressy!
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