GIOIA from AIKO
Aroz Stories presents Gioia, founder of AIKO Studio, a clothing brand for children and adults.
03 May,2024
AROZ. Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Gioia. My name is Gioia Seghers, I'm Italian-Belgian, founder of Aiko Studio and mother of Matisse, 5 and a half, and Milo, 4. I'm 7 months pregnant with our 'sun baby'. With my partner Adrien, who has shared my life for 13 years, we live in Brussels and are currently renovating a house in a forest near the city.
AROZ. Tell us about AIKO.
G. Aiko was created following a trip to Japan and the birth of Matisse in 2018. I instinctively started creating clothes for him using textiles I loved, such as old cashmeres and jeans I'd kept. Today, Aiko offers unique pieces for babies and children made in Belgium from existing garments. We also offer knitwear for adults in 100% cashmere or 100% wool. Aiko is dedicated to responsible consumption, giving new life to forgotten treasures where craftsmanship, transmission and care are at the heart of every piece.
AROZ. Where does your inspiration come from?
G. I draw my inspiration from everyday life, my children, the women around me, the beautiful woollens I find, the natural fabrics I'm given, and my travels, especially in Italy.
AROZ. Your favorite piece in your wardrobe?
G. One piece I'm very fond of is a blouse from my old Gioia Seghers collection. It's inspired by the Japanese Kimono in ivory crepe. Its full sleeves and kimono crossing make it a versatile piece that combines comfort and elegance.
AROZ. What is your greatest wish for AIKO?
G. I want to expand the Aiko community and continue to reach out to women and families around the world, introducing them to our philosophy of second life for the clothes around us.
AROZ. What does jewelry represent for you ?
G. For me, jewelry tells a story: it's familial, sentimental and timeless.
AROZ. What's your favorite AROZ piece?
G. I love your new La Roca model and La Roca Grande, a modern take on creoles.
AROZ. Which pieces of jewelry do you never take off?
G. Two rings given to me by Adrien, two thin rings, one on the right, one on the left. The gold one bears his initials. The first ring was one of his first presents at the start of our relationship, and the second with his initials as a symbol of our passage as parents.
AROZ. What's your mantra? The phrase or word you'd like engraved on one of our medallions?
G. On Mother's Day, I like to recall the words of Nayyirah Waheed: "My mother was my first country. The first place I ever lived."
AROZ. Finally, can you define AROZ in 3 words?
G. Luminous, timeless, elegant.
