Evolution of FOPE.

FOPE, the Italian luxury jewellery brand, began its journey in 1929. Founded by Umberto Cazzola in the beautiful city of Vicenza, FOPE gained recognition for its signature 18-carat gold mesh that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Since its inception, the brand has come a long way and has continued to evolve with time.

If you’re a fan of jewellery that effortlessly blends style and functionality, you’ll want to know about their Flex’it technology. This unique innovation was first introduced in 2007 and has been a game-changer ever since. The Flex’it concept is built around a fully made stretchable and flexible material that incorporates tiny gold springs hidden between each link.

The brand’s Flex’it patented system is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation, which has earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of the world’s most sought-after luxury jewellery brands.

The unique design concept behind FOPE’s signature jewellery pieces has evolved over the years, resulting in a myriad of stunning gender-neutral pieces such as rings, bracelets, and earrings. Whether you’re getting ready for a day-to-night affair or want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday look, Flex’it has got you covered.

To discover FOPE’s exceptional designs, their first flagship boutique in Bangsar caught the attention of many fashion enthusiasts with its wearable creations. However, the brand has expanded and recently celebrated its second boutique at SEIBU, The Exchange TRX.

To learn more about FOPE’s story and craftsmanship, we spoke with International Sales Director Giuseppe Marcheluzzo and Sales Manager Tommaso Foralosso as we toured the opening of their new boutique.

Can you tell us about the materials and craftsmanship used in creating FOPE jewellery pieces?

Giuseppe Marcheluzzo: Our product is made of 18-carat gold and requires fantastic craftsmanship. It’s important to note that Fope is 100% made in-house, which has allowed us to grow from a family business into an international brand. We use a blend of craftsmanship and technology, with each piece finished by hand to ensure a human touch. We invest heavily in high technology, from the development of our collections to the production process, with many in-house machines to ensure a high-quality product.

Tommaso Foralosso: It’s also worth mentioning that our company is RJC (Responsible Jewellery Council) certified and last year, we reached 100 per cent carbon-free status. We take sustainability seriously and believe it’s our duty to contribute to a better world. Our achievements are a testament to this commitment to both our heritage and our future.

FOPE is known for its unique and innovative designs, like the flexible mesh effect. How does the brand stay ahead of trends and continue to push the boundaries in its designs?

GM: We have a very strong core identity. Our creative director is always on the lookout for trends, and we interpret these trends with the Flex’it system. We are very clear in our statement that our core identity is strong, and we want to maintain it, but it needs to evolve, and we are exploring every possibility.

For instance, in 2022, we launched the first-ever Flex’it necklace in the Luna collection. This year, we replicated the same with the Solo collection. This way, we are introducing new trends and ways to wear Fope through various designs while staying true to what we believe in.

TF: If you visit our store, you will see that there is a very clear identity. We recently launched the Souls collection, a range featuring Flex’it rings with the typical Fope mesh, but with different coloured stones revolving around a concept of creating bonds. This range is for whoever is bonded with another person, be it a marriage or friendship.

How does the brand ensure that FOPE jewellery meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship?

GM: Fope is a family business with a story of generations from the same family. They have developed their own unique style and design, and everything is produced in-house. We call it the House of Fope. By developing a unique style and sticking to it, Fope is consistent and recognisable. Since the core DNA of our company is based on 100 per cent in-house production in Italy, we never outsource our production to other places.

Our brand has a strong identity that we want to maintain. However, we do interpret new trends and incorporate them into our core identity. We are very strict about this. When we release new collections, we always ensure that the details reflect our identity.

FOPE has a loyal following of customers. How does the brand cultivate and maintain these relationships?

TF: The consistency of our products is what sets them apart. The collection is designed to integrate and match with each other seamlessly. Once someone becomes a Fope client, they usually fall in love with all of our styles and can always find a new piece to mix and match with what they already own. This creates continuous growth throughout our entire collection. In my experience, even here in Malaysia, we have had very loyal clients since the day we entered the market. They appreciate the new collections that are released here, and they never get old. I like to think of it as a modern classic. Even pieces from 10-20 years ago can be paired with the latest collection and still work together.

What is your favourite FOPE jewellery collection, and why?

TF: My favourite collection is undoubtedly the Eka collection. The bracelet I’m wearing is my favourite for two reasons. First, Eka means “first” in Sanskrit, and it was the initial collection that Fope developed as a Flex’it range. This makes it special for both my personal experience in the company and the company itself. Secondly, I love the style. It’s a contemporary interpretation of a classic chain that can also be worn by men, making it the ideal collection for men. It’s sporty, yet elegant and daring at the same time. That’s why I love it.

GM: I don’t really have a favourite collection from Fope because their concept of everyday luxury is so appealing that the wearer will want a piece of jewellery for every occasion. Fope offers a world where you can enjoy the journey, and our clients tend to stack pieces from different collections because it easily reflects different moments in their lives. However, all the pieces share the same feeling of everyday luxury and a strong brand identity. This is why, even for myself, I feel like I am part of the brand’s values and DNA when I wear any Fope piece.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing their first piece of FOPE jewellery?

TF: The first thing to know about Fope is that you should try on whatever jewellery piece you’re interested in, whether it’s a bracelet, ring or necklace. A piece can look beautiful in a window display, but only by trying it on and experiencing the flex’it technique and comfort of our jewellery, will you understand its true value. My advice is to come and visit our beautiful location here in The Exchange TRX and try on our jewellery. Our jewellery is meant to be worn and enjoyed, not just locked away in a safe. We want our clients to feel happy wearing it every day because it’s comfortable and designed for everyday use.

Discover FOPE.

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All images courtesy of FOPE.