Maurizio Altieri

Maurizio Altieri, after earning degrees in economics and law, chose to follow his true passion: clothing. He began his career in fashion under Richard Stark at Chrome Hearts, where he learned the essentials of manufacturing and leather treatment. In 1996, Altieri left Chrome Hearts to establish Carpe Diem. His design philosophy centered on creating timeless, utilitarian, hand-made garments from the finest materials, with a focus on transforming these pieces through distinctive treatments and washes. Experimentation and rebellion became his core values, and similar to Carol Christian Poell, Maurizio Altieri’s attitude became strongly believing his work spoke for itself, not needing any kind of advertising or editorials.

Altieri showcased his dedication to craftsmanship through various collections under the umbrella of the “Continues Collection.” The label initially produced leather pieces using premium fabrics such as horsehide, cowhide, and anaconda. These materials were subjected to washing, distressing, crushing, and even being buried in soil for months. Each garment was intentionally deconstructed to challenge conventional luxury. Carpe Diem later expanded its offerings with three additional collections: L’Maltieri (knitwear), Sartoria (made-to-measure), and Linea (jackets, trousers, and T-shirts). Carpe Diem introduced numerous experimental design elements, including twisted seams, dropped-crotch trousers, asymmetric plackets, and J-cut pants. Although Carpe Diem is no longer active, Altieri and his collaborators have continued to influence fashion by establishing their own brands and pursuing the innovative path that began with Carpe Diem in 1996.

After the dissolution of Carpe Diem, Altieri continued to push the boundaries of fashion with m_moria. The brand was launched with a focus on artisanal footwear, particularly boots, which are handcrafted using traditional methods and materials. The process is labor-intensive, involving techniques that date back centuries. This dedication to traditional craftsmanship ensures that each piece is unique, with a level of detail and quality that is rare in modern fashion. Altieri’s approach is deeply rooted in a philosophy of longevity and sustainability. He abandons mass production, instead creating pieces that are meant to last a lifetime. This is evident in the brand’s aesthetic, which combines rugged durability with an understated elegance.