The Origins

Armenian-born Stefano Serapian and his little brother Aramays fled from a raging conflict in their home country. Weathering many adversities, they reached Italy in the early twenties, settling first in Venice and then in Milan. 

Stefano started working in an artisan workshop and, intrigued by the handiwork of the talented craftswomen, tried his hand using their leftover leathers.

1928

Serapian started designing and crafting his first fine leather goods. He cycled around Milan to sell them, slowly broadening his horizons to other towns.

It was during one of these trips that he met Gina Flori, a dynamic and elegant woman with a refined taste for quality products. She would later become his wife and business partner. 

1945

Serapian set up his bespoke atelier on Via Jommelli which became the hub of the Maison’s production. 

In this milieu of excellence that attracted the well-heeled ladies and elegant gentlemen looking for something unique, Stefano and Gina worked side-by-side, flanked by expert craftsmen. 

The Fifties and Sixties

Serapian’s tailor-made bags in enticing colors and luxurious materials quickly caught the attention of the international jest set and of the Golden Age celebrities. With the post-war rebirth, the glamour of Cinecittà in Rome and the surge of Made in Italy desirability, Serapian reached its heyday. 

The vibrant Italian art scene, led by Vico Magistretti, Giò Ponti and De Chirico, was also a source of inspiration as the Serapians were part of those inspiring circles  

The Seventies

The special seed planted by Serapian continued to blossom well after he passed away in 1972 with his son Ardavast taking the helm and spearheading the company into the future. True to family tradition, he did so with his wife Ani by his side. 

From the first workshop to a modern factory, they introduced new designs and materials, such as Stepan, to adapt to the changing pace of life. 

The Eighties and Nineties

As the demand for customized products increased, Ardavast Serapian further elevated the Maison's exclusive bespoke service. 

From small leather goods to luggage, from practical totes to sailing bags, the atelier still transforms a dream into a finished product, using personalised colours, leathers, linings and hardware.

2000

Serapian’s retail expansion continues full-throttle. Alongside the historic Via Jommelli boutique, new flagship stores opened in Milan and Rome.

The Serapian collections are also available in the best department stores and top fashion boutiques worldwide.

Today

Compagnie Financière Richemont acquired Serapian, fascinated by the Maison’s history, narrative and outstanding expertise. With the support of a leading global luxury group, Serapian looks to the future, eager to broaden its horizons and write a new chapter in its history.

Serapian relocated to Villa Mozart, a sophisticated Art Deco landmark site in Milan that became the Maison’s new headquarters, complete with a spacious and airy showroom. This unique setting, decorated with floral-frescoed ceilings floating over marble columns and wooden boiserie, perfectly reflects the spirit of the Maison.