Mariella Avino, Owner of Palazzo Avino, on vintage Valentino, the eternal appeal of polka dots, and building a boutique with deep love for beauty.
Tucked inside Palazzo Avino, the legendary pink palace clinging to the cliffs of Ravello above the Amalfi Coast, is a boutique that operates by its own rules entirely. The Pink Closet has nothing to do with hotel gift shop logic and everything to do with one woman’s very particular, very wonderful obsession with beautiful things.
Mariella Avino, who owns the property alongside her family, built The Pink Closet as an extension of how she moves through the world: collecting emotional pieces the way a seasoned traveler collects memories, following instinct over formula. The research is borderless. New York, London, Crete, New Delhi, Como, Naples.
Every season, she curates a fresh edit built around a collaboration nobody saw coming. Last year it was archive Valentino and Pucci sourced from a beloved Milan vintage dealer. This year, a niche travel bag brand creating bespoke pieces in Palazzo Avino’s signature palette, personalized with your initials. The women who stumble into The Pink Closet on their way to lunch rarely leave empty-handed. We asked Mariella what is inspiring the 2026 season.
What has been inspiring you for The Pink Closet this year?
Each year I try to create a collaboration off the usual paths. I love vintage, and I have known for many years this curated beautiful boutique in Milan, Madame Pauline Vintage. Last year we hosted them for the season. We had some vintage pieces from Valentino and Pucci, so unique.
This year, we have put in place a beautiful collaboration with My Style Bags, a niche travel bags brand based in Milan. They created a beautiful line inspired by our colors, and it will be possible to personalize them with initials.
Is there a color palette or texture that, to you, captures the essence of this summer?
Pink, of course, as a color. And polka dots as pattern. I am a fan of polka dots. I have a collection of vintage pieces with polka dots. They are never enough.
Is there a piece this season that feels especially you?
Yes. Our custom-made rattan bag.
Are there any new local female designers you’re especially excited to be showcasing this year?
Yes, we feature a new brand founded by two female designers, Crida. They are based in Milan and their signature patterns are dots.
Do you have a favorite Italian designer at the moment?
Oh yes. I love Alessandro Michele. This goes back to the Gucci times, and now that he is at Valentino, I became a collector of his pieces as well.
If you could choose one song that represents The Pink Closet this year, what would it be?
“Fabulous” by Meek Mill.