Vincenzo Castaldo, the creative director of Pomellato, describes Milanese women as embodying “radical chic,” influencing the brand’s style profoundly. During a recent visit to Dubai for the launch of Pomellato’s latest collection, Pom Pom Dot, Castaldo emphasized the brand’s departure from traditional jewelry norms. He highlighted their pieces as designed for women who enjoy expressing themselves through unique combinations, such as mixing rings or wearing necklaces in unconventional ways.
The inspiration behind Pom Pom Dot, based on a 1974 necklace from Pomellato’s archives, centers on transforming a sautoir into a poetic and meaningful piece adorned with golden buttons. Castaldo and his team innovatively reimagined the design using materials like malachite, mother-of-pearl, and white rhodium-plated rose gold. The resulting pendant features a versatile design that can be worn as a necklace, bracelet, or earrings, reflecting charm, simplicity, and wearability.
Castaldo’s journey to Pomellato began with his upbringing in Tuscany, where he found Milan’s dynamic and fashion-forward environment more aligned with his ambitions. His career path led him through pivotal roles with prominent fashion houses, influencing his approach to jewelry design.
Since becoming creative director in 2014, Castaldo has overseen the development of diverse collections such as Nudo, Iconica, Sabbia, and Catene, each characterized by tactile and sensual qualities rooted in Milanese goldsmith craftsmanship. This proximity to artisan expertise within Pomellato’s atelier is integral to Castaldo’s creative process, emphasizing the importance of hands-on collaboration in crafting exquisite jewelry.
The evolution into high jewelry marked a significant milestone for Pomellato, culminating in collections like Ode to Milan, which celebrated the brand’s heritage through 33 distinctive pieces. Castaldo’s creative philosophy embraces experimentation and the beauty found in imperfection, drawing parallels between fashion and jewelry design while remaining dedicated to Pomellato’s legacy.
Reflecting on his tenure, Castaldo emphasizes Pomellato’s deep connection to Milanese tradition and its commitment to meticulous craftsmanship, underscoring the brand’s ethos of quiet luxury and attention to detail. For Castaldo, Pomellato represents not just a job but a journey intertwined with his personal and professional growth, shaping his identity as a jewelry designer dedicated to pushing creative boundaries within a storied legacy.