Byron Bay-based label Del Villar is making minimalism fun
Photography by Francisco Ferrari
Words by Kate Streader
“I am still working on what I want Del Villar to look like. It is ever evolving and growing.”
Born in Buenos Aires and now based in Byron Bay, Maria Del Villar has spent much of her life making clothing, though it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when she finally launched her own label, Del Villar.
Though the timing wasn’t ideal, she managed to make it work, releasing her debut collection between lockdowns. Fast forward a few years and Del Villar has just released its third collection, Edition 3, showcasing elegant silhouettes and bright bursts of colour alongside neutral hues, all constructed from natural fabrics.
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Simple, classic and versatile but never boring, Del Villar’s pieces are staples with a bold touch. It’s no wonder fellow sustainable Australian fashion label, St. Agni, snapped Maria up to join their design team.
Much of the Del Villar journey so far has involved Maria learning on the job, thinking on her feet and taking inspiration as it comes. She’s not sure what’s in store for Del Villar in the future, but she’s just as excited to find out as we are.
Tell us about you. What’s your fashion background?
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I’ve been designing clothes since I was young. I used to buy fabric with my mum and take it to the local seamstress with my designs in hand. Once I finished school, I studied a fashion degree at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina and then completed a fashion Master Grade in Barcelona, Spain. These were the most amazing years, learning and exploring. I really owe so much to the amazing training that I’ve got. It was hard work but incredibly creative and worth it.
I worked with a few designers in Argentina, but not long after I finished my studies I started travelling. On the road, I learnt to make silver jewellery which opened a new path that I will explore again very soon. Only after a few years settling in Australia, I realised it was time to start my own brand, to have a platform where I could showcase my work. Today it is only clothing, but it could take any form in the future. I love multidisciplinary art. At the moment, I am also designing for one of my favourite Australian brands, St. Agni.
How did the label get started? Talk us through the process and the challenges.
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Del Villar started during COVID-19, so it was an unnaturally challenging beginning. I was concerned about starting my own business as I thought it would take away the magic and joy from designing and creating. I did not have many contacts in Australia that could help me in this process and the idea of manufacturing in Argentina, my home country, did not make sense, logistically.
Finally, I made up my mind and booked a trip to Bali to find my first manufacturer. No recommendations, no leads. Just like that, in between lockdowns, I launched my first small collection and got a few stockists. That is how everything started. I am still working on what I want Del Villar to look like. It is ever-evolving and growing.
What were you trying to achieve from the project at the time? How has this evolved and what are you trying to communicate through the brand now?
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The idea of creative freedom pushed me to start. Also to materialise concepts that were in my head and see how receptive and engaged others would be with them. The brand is developing a bold aesthetic, looking for comfort, self-expression and authenticity.
What do you wish you knew when you started?
I wish I knew a lot more about business and marketing. There is so much more than design involved in creating and running a fashion brand.
What are you most proud of in your work on your label?
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I am proud of pursuing and realising the designs I want, personal and professional growth through commitment and perseverance, learning and utilising new skills and also the reception from customers and buyers.
Who is in your wardrobe right now?
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Del Villar, some St.Agni staples, Paloma Wool and lots of vintage pieces, especially from my mother.
Who do you think is most exciting in Australian/NZ fashion right now?
Christopher Esber, Wynn Hamlyn.
Go-to dinner party playlist?
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I love dinner parties at home and I usually play records but I do have one playlist that I enjoy: ‘Vino O’Clock’ by Del Villar.
See the Del Villar range here.
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