Adriana Manso: "I don't take myself too seriously"

Adriana Manso is driven by a passion for creation, and it shows. Her creativity, which shines most brightly in jewelry design—it's no coincidence that her brand, La Manso, quickly and pervasively became the go-to jewelry brand for cool girls with its cartoonish colors and unmistakable style—radiates from everything she says, as does her strong curiosity for the world and art. And what could be more inspiring and promising than that? We had a chat with her, diving into an enigmatic, colorful world full of nuances.

Her passion for jewelry has roots that are not very specific, stemming from her love for art. She tells us, "I have dabbled in many artistic disciplines, but none particularly related to design or fashion. In 2019, at 24 years old, I decided to start a project a little more seriously than what had always been my hobby." And here we are, talking about her jewelry, which is playful yet glamorous, full of references. "Part of my inspiration comes from not taking myself too seriously, from not giving myself too much importance," says Adriana Manso. "It’s about rethinking processes, both in terms of image and product, playing and experimenting with materials to add value to the design. I also like using materials that haven't traditionally been used in fine jewelry, as they are more associated with costume jewelry or other practices." Her ideal customer? Herself. "I think about what kind of product I would like to find or what kind of product I would value."

The brand, after all, starting from the name itself, originates from her, from her life, from a youth that is not so far behind. "La Manso is the nickname they gave me at school. It was something I wanted to reconcile with, especially today in the era of social media, where we have all become a bit of a brand. At least I am a 100% Instagram-born brand, a result of that moment when brands became personified," she reflects, very aware of what brought her to where she is today. "From my point of view, depending on the approach or the market you are targeting, social media is fundamental for brands with an online presence. Every brand that was born with social media has an aspirational element, so it's essential to build a universe."

A universe that in its origin and essence is feminine, and that has never stopped her. When we ask if she has ever faced particular difficulties related to being a woman, she replies, "The truth is that underestimating myself is not really part of my personality. More than answering that first question, I would respond by saying what I think one can contribute to the industry, and my answer would be: hire more women." And on the most thrilling moment of her career, she has no doubts: "Of course, every day is a challenge and an excitement, but I think one of the best moments of my career was when I was called to create the jewelry for Jean-Paul Gaultier's Cyber Collection in 2022."

The same vibrant confidence shines through when the conversation shifts to the advice Adriana Manso would give to a young designer or to anyone looking to make a mark in the creative industry: "If you’re eager to start a project, I would say surround yourself with the right people, build a great team, believe in what you're doing, and don't be afraid to show it to the world. Things don't have to be perfect right away, improvements come with time. So, the best advice I can give to someone starting out is: stop planning, just start." In her future, which is actually her present, is a project called Ca La Manso, which in her words: "It's a house in the small village where I grew up, my home. The starting point is a store where La Manso will coexist with other brands that inspire me. Since it's my home, I'll have my guests. And well, in theory, when this interview is out, you can already come visit me."