WRITTEN BY: KENDALL BECKER
Embodying eclectic vibrancy in the most elevated way, PatBO is the ultimate It girl-approved label that effortlessly embraces the power of femininity. From the beaches of Brazil to red carpets in Los Angeles, you can find PatBO dresses on the likes of Paris Hilton, Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens –– just to name a few –– and on countless sophisticated, in-the-know women around the world. Plus, the label goes far beyond dresses these days; founder and creative director Patricia Bonaldi has introduced statement-making swimwear, activewear, and even pajamas since the brand’s inception –– all of which celebrate her Brazilian roots and affinity for impeccable craftsmanship.
But, while you may recognize her signature beach dress, there’s much more to know about the rising label. In fact, Bonaldi actually started her segue into the fashion industry as a boutique owner.
“I opened a namesake multibrand store in my hometown in 2001 while studying for a law degree,” she says. “My clients started requesting custom-made gowns, which quickly turned into an eveningwear collection.”
Several stores and much success later, her own line, PatBO, officially came to fruition in 2012.
I design my clothes to flatter a woman’s shape, not to hide it. I want my customers to feel empowered and beautiful in each style, no matter what size they are.
And it’s really no surprise that Bonaldi’s line of eveningwear became a fast favorite; her ethos is all about celebrating the curvature and confidence of the women who wear her designs. “I design my clothes to flatter a woman’s shape, not to hide it. I want my customers to feel empowered and beautiful in each style, no matter what size she is,” Bonaldi tells LVR. This sentiment certainly rings true, as you’re sure to discover flirty frocks with cutouts, sensual deep-V necklines, halter necks that show off a delicate collarbone, and draped fabric that lays just right.
In addition to smartly assembled silhouettes, PatBO is also known for couture-level embroidery. Bonaldi’s collections feature expert craftsmanship through beautifully embroidered trims and accents that lend an extra-special feeling to each piece. Bonaldi is also a guardian of the preservation of this fashion-driven art form and has even established a school in her hometown of Uberlândia in southeastern Brazil to teach local men and women the craft of embroidery. Since its inauguration, the school has empowered more than hundreds of members from the community with the skillset.
Everything is meticulously hand-sewn and there’s lots of beading, embroidery and hand-applied trims. Each piece celebrates the brand’s devotion to craftsmanship and empowering talented artisans in my hometown.
With craftsmanship as a hallmark of the label, Bonaldi made sure details took center stage –– or runway –– at her first New York Fashion Week show for the spring 2022 season last September. Currently available to shop (on LuisaViaRoma), Bonaldi says, “Everything is meticulously hand-sewn and there’s lots of beading, embroidery and hand-applied trims. Each piece celebrates the brand’s devotion to craftsmanship and empowering talented artisans in my hometown.” And if she had to pick one standout piece, she recommends taking note of the Oscar dress, a silky, plume-trimmed gown in bubblegum pink.
If you’re wondering what might be in store next for the cult-worthy label, Bonaldi let us in on a few insider secrets to be excited about this year. After endless accolades on her first activewear collection, the brand will be back with another drop of unabashedly bold options for all your fitness needs. Currently, you can shop printed tennis skirts, practical — yet sexy — jumpsuits, and so much more. On that same note, collaborations have been key for the brand (they just wrapped up a pajama partnership with Eden Rock – St Barths) and are set to expand in the year ahead –– she hints at June for a must-know announcement you won’t want to miss. Plus, keep an eye out for a PatBO store opening near you in coming years, as the brand’s first SoHo location in New York has been an undeniable hit with its fans. As Bonaldi notes, she’s only getting started.
