Cristaseya is a clothing line founded by Cristina Casini and Andrea Spotorno, two Italians who relocated to Paris from Milan almost 20 years ago. The brand is primarily available for purchase on the second floor of an office building at 7 Rue Ambroise Thomas in the 9th arrondissement. The location is referred to as Casa Cristaseya and operates by appointment only.
The exclusivity of Casa Cristaseya attracts customers who have been directed there by friends in the fashion industry with good taste. The brand is also available in select stores, with the majority located in Japan and a few in the United States. However, Casa Cristaseya remains the only store in France that carries the collection.
Cristaseya embodies a different definition of luxury, focusing on discretion and rarity rather than traditional notions of opulence. The brand draws inspiration from traditional Italian and Japanese tailoring. The collection is characterized by its artistry and playfulness, with a smart and slightly twisted understated look.
Unlike other fashion brands, Cristaseya refuses to sell its collection to major department stores and online retailers. The brand prioritizes maintaining a unique and special shopping experience for its customers. Cristaseya never goes on sale and prices are higher compared to other brands. The collection does not follow the traditional fashion industry’s seasonal model and releases editions twice a year.
Initially, Cristaseya avoided selling online to emphasize the importance of experiencing the brand in person. However, the brand has now established an online shop that periodically opens for a limited time. This limited-access approach is more about capacity and manpower rather than creating hype.
Despite its unconventional approach, Cristaseya has fostered a strong bond with its clients. The brand values personal connections and emphasizes that their customers truly need to be motivated to be part of the Cristaseya world.