Loves of My Life: Frida Giannini

The best interviews are often the most personal. In Loves of My Life, we get to know the person behind their craft, asking them the important questions we're desperate to know—the restaurants and date-night spots, the piece of jewellery they're most attached to and what's lurking at the bottom of their handbag. In short, these are the true loves of their life.

Frida Giannini is an internationally acclaimed Italian designer best known for her decade-long tenure as Creative Director at Gucci (2005 - 2015). Beginning her career at Fendi in 1997, she rose quickly through the ranks before joining Gucci in 2002. Giannini is recognized for her influential work in fashion and her deep commitment to craftsmanship, heritage, and cultural preservation. She has collaborated with institutions such as UNICEF, LACMA, and the Martin Scorsese Foundation, supporting global education, film restoration, and the arts. In 2013, she co-founded Chime for Change alongside Beyoncé and Salma Hayek.

Her recent projects span fashion, interior design, and publishing, continuing to reflect her passion for timeless luxury and artistic innovation. Next on her list of accolades is a capsule collection with iconic London department store, Liberty, marking their 150th year. Titled HYPERNOVA 150, Frida's collection is a celebration of contrasts—elegance and edge, heritage and rebellion, British tradition and modern glamour.

Tell me about your experience with working with the Liberty design team and your inspirations behind that collection.

I was very honored to be considered for this project because not many companies can celebrate 150 years. Liberty has always been a very iconic part of British culture in London. I knew a lot about Liberty; when I lived in London, it was always a destination, so I looked into reference books, the history of all the artists collaborating with Liberty, and the art and crafts that surround it. In London and within British culture, I see a constant contrast between tradition, like the royal family, and a punkish attitude. That, to me, makes it one of the most energetic places I've ever lived. I lived in London for a couple of years, so I am immersed in the spirit of the city, and I still love the energy you can find there.

Do you have any hidden gems or favourite spots in London?

I love Hampstead Heath; I love Whitechapel. A special place to me is Leighton House, which has stood since the Victorian age. It's a museum with all the Victorian, original furniture—a photographer brought me down once, and it's so beautiful.

Say you have 72 hours in London—what is your most favourite hotel and why?

I'm an advocate of Claridge's—I always go to Claridge's. They have known me for many years, and they know my favorite room. They have a tea room, where you can have breakfast, and I love the atmosphere and everything about the interiors.

When you do come to London, what are you buying or indulging in?

If I have time to do shopping, I will always bring a trunk home from London, because I always find something interesting to buy. I love stationery. I love buying vinyl records around Carnaby Street. And I love the area between King's Road and Chelsea, which is full of famous brands and more niche labels, which I am always interested in discovering.