About Us
Canadian Paolina Russo and French Lucile Guilmard are the designers behind the brand, Paolina Russo. The pair draw on personal experiences growing up in small suburban towns where boredom fuelled their imagination. Influenced by the hobbies they did to pass the time including video games, local team sports, and arts and crafts, their work fosters a dialogue between futurism and nostalgia. Hand crafts such as knitwear, tie dye, and macrame—once deeply rooted in folklore—are reimagined through modern technology for contemporary wardrobes, spanning womenswear and streetwear.
Known for their collaborative approach, sustainability, and innovation in textile development, the brand has designed collections for Adidas Originals and Converse. They have also partnered with gaming fashion platforms Roblox and FabriX. Recognised for their impact, Paolina Russo earned a spot on Forbes 30 Under 30 for Arts & Culture, won the inaugural Zalando Visionary Award in 2023, and was a finalist for both the LVMH Prize and the International Woolmark Prize in 2023. They are the current recipients of the Paul Smith’s Foundation’s Residency at Smithfield Studios.
Paolina Russo creates garments that serve as a uniform for those with shared memories—a symbol of connection, community, and the bonds formed through growing up. These pieces become a meaningful way to pass down memories and to foster a sense of belonging, making everyone feel like part of the team.
