WORDS BY AMELIA BELL
Borgo de Nor is the most colourful label about town, and the latest brainchild of designers Carmen Borgonovo and Joana de Noronha. Who? Put it this way, they have the C.V (and style) to make any fashion girl jealous. Theirs is a world imbued by nature and surrealism; their floral, feel-good dresses and evocative prints will have you happily daydreaming of tropical sunsets and summer nights - even if you’re just sat at your office desk. We met the dynamic duo to talk the story behind their unforgettable prints, and how they got their big break in the fashion industry...
Farfetch: So, tell us about your latest collection...
Carmen and Joana: ‘You’ll find vibrant and artful dresses with just a touch of surreal, for pieces that work for both city style and holiday vibes.’
What’s the story behind those bright, floral prints?
Carmen and Joana: ‘Our prints are inspired by art and photography, from Dali to Man Ray, as well as our own cultural backgrounds and Latin roots - not to mention our obvious love of colour.’
What's your favourite flower?
Carmen: ‘Hydrangeas.’
Joana: ‘I am going to have to say hydrangeas too, but my second favourites are white bougainvilleas.’
How did you get your big break in the fashion industry?
Carmen: ‘Mine came when I called my first boss at Harper’s Bazaar to see if he was looking for an assistant - that phone call started my entire career.’
Joana: ‘And mine was in 2005 when I decided to apply for a fashion job at Diane von Furstenberg. With no fashion experience and no real knowledge of fashion, my boss-to-be still thought I was worth a try and offered me the position.’
Dream holiday destination and why?
Carmen: ‘Trekking in the Ethiopian countryside; I visited Addis Ababa several years ago with a charity and fell in love with the people and the place.’
Joana: ‘India, I just can’t get enough of it and can’t wait to go back soon!’
What would be the title of your autobiography?
Carmen: ‘Smile – I'm a true believer in the importance of laughter and staying positive.’
Joana: ‘Reach For The Stars – because everything is possible if you set your heart to it.’
What’s your signature dish?
Camren: ‘Eggplant parmesan.’
Joana: ‘Roast chicken.’
What’s been your biggest life lesson?
Carmen: ‘Never live in the past: it’s important to live in the moment and enjoy what you have.’
Joana: ‘The universe always provides you with what you need.’
Can you give us a hint on your next exciting project?
‘Yes! We would love to expand into accessories, jewellery and handbags.’
Finally, what’s your biggest vice?
Carmen: ‘Wine, always.’
Joana: ‘Likewise - A glass of red wine after a long day’s work.’
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