Mark's Story
MARK GIUSTI'S JOURNEY WEAVES A TAPESTRY OF WANDERLUST, MOSAIC ARTISTRY, CREATIVITY, ALL GUIDED BY A PROFOUND COMMITMENT TO ETHICAL CRAFTSMANSHIP, CREATING UNIQUE, HANDCRAFTED LUXURY PIECES THAT TELL A STORY OF ELEGANCE AND PASSION.
Beyond his professional endeavours, mark is deeply committed to social philanthropy, collaborating with major organisations such as the united nations development programs in the middle east and supporting several initiatives like the Build Africa and Bella Esperanza charities, which focuses on community development and access to clean water and education.
MY CHILDHOOD INFLUENCE
As the son of a diplomat, travel became an integral part of my life, instilling in me a sense of adventure that fueled my curiosity and expanded my imagination. Fashion has been a lifelong passion, deeply influenced by my family's keen sense of style.
I recall my grandmother's stories about growing and selling silk and delicate fabrics in my grandfather's shop in Beirut. My father, always impeccably dressed, taught me about different fabrics and the art of bespoke tailoring. His style, including his collection of hats and bags, left a lasting impression on me.
My mother epitomised timeless beauty, elegance, and finesse, with her love for exquisite handbags and shoes. My sister's understated elegance and touch of color inspired my passion for bags, vibrant tones, and contrasting details evident in my work. She remains my greatest advocate. Our parents always said, "Well-crafted pieces speak for themselves."
GROWING UP WITH MOSAIC HERITAGE
My father, an avid collector of art and mosaics, profoundly influenced my childhood. I was captivated by the intricate process of placing tiny stones together to create stunning masterpieces. Mosaics became my passion. I accompanied him to antique fairs and auctions, where he would share the fascinating history of each piece.
Our home was filled with books on Roman and Byzantine mosaics, and I grew up admiring their beautiful patterns. My travels fueled my desire to see these mosaics in person, from wall decorations to marble floors in historic monuments and medieval houses. I was inspired to revive these forgotten designs, telling the stories of the mosaics and their artisans through my work.
Pursuing My Dream
In 2001, I graduated with a BA in Business Administration from the American University of Beirut. Moving to London in 2003, I earned an MA in Marketing Management with a focus on luxury brands from the University of Westminster. After graduation, I worked for Capelli NY in New York, designing and developing men's accessories in the UK. My passion for fashion led me to Milan, where I studied accessories design and trained at top brands like Costume National and Armani.
In 2009, I pursued my dream by founding MARK / GIUSTI, merging my love for mosaics and travel-inspired bags. Initially catering to a VIP clientele with bespoke designs, the brand expanded internationally in 2012. MARK / GIUSTI's unique collections quickly gained recognition and were stocked in luxury boutiques and department stores like The Conran Store, Harvey Nichols, Bloomingdales, Isetan, and Luisa Via Roma, across 17 countries.
Career & Awards
In 2013, I was honored to be nominated for the "Best New Accessories Brand" by the UK Fashion and Textile Association and the "Best New Accessories Designer" by Drapers Magazine.
In 2018, I was appointed Head of Footwear and Accessories for Victoria Beckham and Self-Portrait in London. Additionally, I currently lecture on Sustainable Fashion Design and Management at SUMAS and Accessories Design at Istituto Marangoni in Milan and on Creative Direction at IED in Florence. Sharing my expertise and mentoring the new generation, who are our future, has always been a passion of mine.
I believe that the most significant award I could ever get is using my platform to make an impactful change and make a difference in the community, the environment, and the planet.