My name is Ilenia Gamberini and my work has always been guided by a constant search for authenticity.
My personal history has always been intertwined with art, culture, and the desire to transform even the most mundane objects into something meaningful. I studied Art History at the University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world. Those years, spent exploring the beauty hidden in details and the narrative power of aesthetics, shaped my vision and my approach to creation. After working in the contemporary art world—curating exhibitions and cultural events for public institutions and private entities—I felt a profound need to create something that not only told the stories of others, but also my own.
In 2014 I founded my brand, Gamberini Bag.
I chose to give the brand my last name as a tribute to my roots: Gamberini is one of the historic surnames of Bologna, my hometown, and represents a profound connection to my cultural identity. The project was born from a clear vision: to create accessories that bring beauty to everyday life, not by following trends, but by telling stories. I am deeply inspired by women who revolutionized their time with consistency and freedom. Peggy Guggenheim, who said "I am a museum," taught me that every person can become a living custodian of art and visions. Through my bags, I try to carry this philosophy forward: to create objects that are not just accessories, but small living spaces of beauty. Coco Chanel taught me that true elegance lies in simplicity. That's why each of my creations is designed with clean lines, noble materials, and essential details that stand the test of time. I don't create to follow trends: I create to tell a story.
I believe that an accessory should be a silent yet eloquent extension of the wearer's identity: capable of protecting, accompanying, and narrating.
For me, being a designer today means believing in the value of craftsmanship, in the culture of materials, and in the gentle power of authenticity.
It means building bridges between past and future, between art and life, between emotion and form.
At the heart of the project is the Cameo Exchange system: each bag includes three interchangeable cameos, to choose from a curated selection.
Cameos can be:
- unique pieces in tailored fabric (TailorSuite), hand-cut from high fashion collections;
- or waterproof printed cameos (Print), colorful and lightweight, designed for everyday use.
This system makes each bag versatile, personal, and durable: an accessory that truly accompanies everyday life.
Each Gamberini bag is made of soft, select leather from Tuscan tanneries.
The production is rooted in the heart of Italian craftsmanship: bags made in San Mauro Pascoli, cameo frames produced in Casalecchio di Reno, cameos hand-assembled in the Altedo Bologna workshop.
Everything happens in a short and controlled supply chain, to guarantee quality, consistency and sustainability.
In the heart of Bologna, the single-brand boutique at Via D'Azeglio 5/a welcomes those who wish to discover the world of Gamberini firsthand.