As interior designers in the Cotswolds, we are continually inspired by makers and designers who share our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Meli Melo luxury handbags bring together refined Italian craftsmanship and effortless London style. Each piece balances structure with softness, offering polish without rigidity and practicality without compromise. Founded in London and crafted in Italy, the brand blends two distinct design languages. Italian artisans shape every bag with precision, while London sensibility gives the collection its relaxed confidence. The result feels timeless yet contemporary.
Italian Roots and Coastal Inspiration
Melissa grew up on the Aeolian island of Lipari, off the coast of Sicily, an upbringing that continues to shape her aesthetic. She speaks warmly of her enduring connection to the sea and the natural materials and textures that surround it.
That coastal influence translates easily into interiors. Melissa was particularly drawn to our large resin stone clams, which she plans to use as an ice vessel for chilled rosé when entertaining. The sculptural form offers a subtle nod to her heritage while respecting the natural environment, a balance she values deeply.
Global Travel and Design Influences
Design, for Melissa, is instinctive and all-encompassing. Running a global fashion brand means frequent travel between Paris, Milan and New York, with recent collaborations taking her further afield, including projects in the Far East with Japanese artist Shoko.
These influences extend beyond fashion. Melissa is particularly drawn to pieces with strong proportions and a sense of history, which explains her affection for the antique Chinese bench, a versatile, sculptural piece that sits comfortably within both contemporary and traditional settings.
Craftsmanship, Quality and Sustainability
Craftsmanship sits at the heart of Meli Melo. Melissa uses only the finest Italian leathers, sourced responsibly and produced with longevity in mind. This commitment naturally extends into her home, reflecting the value of a full-service interior design process where craftsmanship, materiality and longevity are considered as part of a coherent whole.
She gravitates towards natural materials, linens, rattan and jute — and is especially fond of the Sequoia rug layered with our Kea linen cushions. Together, they create a space that feels grounded, tactile and quietly luxurious.
An Eclectic and Layered Home
Melissa’s interiors reflect a thoughtful blend of her Italian roots and British influences, shaped by her English mother and husband, Doug. Antique slipper chairs upholstered in classic black-and-white ticking sit comfortably within this layered aesthetic, offering a place to pause, whether browsing the pages of Vogue or reading bedtime stories to her two children.
It’s a home that feels collected rather than curated, where pieces are chosen for meaning as much as beauty.
Fashion, Art and Personal Expression
For Melissa, fashion and interiors are both forms of personal expression. Her passion for contemporary art led to the creation of The Art Bag, a collaboration with artist Federica Fanari. Featuring bold, thought-provoking statements such as “Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe” and “All I Ever Wanted Was Everything”, the collection blurs the boundary between art and fashion.
Art plays an equally important role at home. One particular piece, “Look Up in the Sky”, holds special meaning for her youngest son, Baxter, a painting chosen to inspire imagination, creativity and a sense of possibility.
!["Look Up In The Sky" Superman Painting](https://studiobellord.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/LUITS-1024x1024-640x640.jpg ""Look Up In The Sky" Superman Painting")
Discover More from Meli Melo
Explore the latest collections from Meli Melo and discover handbags that combine craftsmanship, character and contemporary elegance.
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If you appreciate exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design, you may also enjoy discovering Studio Bellord.
We specialise in creating thoughtfully designed interiors for period and country homes throughout the Cotswolds, working closely with skilled craftspeople, bespoke joiners and specialist makers to create homes of lasting quality.
Whether restoring a listed property or designing a contemporary country home, our approach is rooted in considered design, enduring materials and meticulous attention to detail