Meet A.R. Mauriella | Founder/Creative Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with A.R. Mauriella and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi A.R., is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Arturo Rose operates in the fashion and apparel industry, and one thing about our industry that outsiders may be unaware of is the extensive supply chain and the global network involved in creating a single piece of clothing. While many people see the final product on the shelves or online, they often don’t realize the complexity and global reach of the fashion industry. The fashion industry is a complex, interconnected, and global ecosystem that goes far beyond what consumers see on the racks. Understanding these intricacies can help consumers make more informed choices, supporting companies that align with their values and priorities.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Arturo Rose Clothing Co. is not just a brand; it’s a reflection of our passion for fashion, quality, and sustainability. What sets us apart from others in the fashion industry is our unwavering commitment to ethical practices, sustainability, and timeless designs. We take great pride in our journey and the values that have guided us to where we are today.

Our Story:
Our journey began with a vision to create a clothing brand that was not only stylish but also environmentally responsible and ethical in its practices. We realized that the fashion industry has a significant impact on the environment and people’s lives, and we wanted to be part of the solution. It was not an easy path to embark upon, but our commitment to our values kept us going.

Challenges and Overcoming Them:
Starting a clothing brand from scratch was indeed challenging. Sourcing sustainable materials, finding ethical manufacturing partners, and convincing customers to embrace slow fashion over fast fashion were all hurdles we faced. We overcame these challenges through persistence, research, and a strong belief in our mission. We sought out like-minded suppliers and manufacturers, invested in sustainable practices, and educated our customers about the importance of making conscious fashion choices.

Lessons Learned:
Along the way, we’ve learned valuable lessons. One of the most important is that the fashion industry can be a force for positive change. Sustainability and ethical practices are not just buzzwords; they are the way forward. We’ve also learned that building a brand is not just about selling products but also about building a community of conscious consumers who share our values.

What We Want the World to Know:
We want the world to know that Arturo Rose Clothing Co. is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a movement. We want to inspire people to make mindful fashion choices, to invest in quality over quantity, and to support ethical and sustainable practices. Our brand represents the intersection of style and conscience, where fashion meets responsibility.

We invite everyone to be a part of this journey, to embrace slow fashion, and to make a positive impact on the planet and the lives of those who contribute to the clothing industry. We’re excited about the future, as we continue to innovate, push for positive change, and set a new standard for what fashion can and should be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would want to show my best friend the best time and provide them with a diverse experience that includes a mix of fashion, culture, and local charm. Here’s a week-long itinerary for an unforgettable trip:

Day 1: Exploring the City

Morning: Start the day with a visit to the North Carolina Museum of Art to appreciate the local art scene.

Lunch: Enjoy a Southern-inspired meal at Poole’s Diner, known for its delicious comfort food.

Afternoon: Stroll through downtown Raleigh, exploring local boutiques and art galleries.

Evening: Head to Taza Grill for delicious Mediterranean food followed out by a night on Glenwood to explore the nightlife Raleigh has to offer. Check out Cornerstone Tavern, managed by a good friend of mine, John Zimmerman.

Day 2: Fashion Exploration

Morning: Visit the Design Gallery at NC State University, a hub for emerging designers.

Lunch: Dare to explore and expand your taste buds at Bartaco in North Hills.

Afternoon: Explore the Raleigh Denim Workshop to witness the craft of denim making.

Evening: Attend a local fashion show or event, showcasing the latest trends in the area. There are a ton of amazing local brands in the area such as: Double XX Studios, CYOR Clothing, The Sad Boy Saga, Only Ohana Brand, Real Aura Co, and many more.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Morning: Spend the morning at the North Carolina Museum of History to learn about the state’s history.

Lunch: Enjoy a barbecue feast at The Pit Authentic Barbecue.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Oakwood neighborhood for a glimpse of Raleigh’s past.

Evening: Watch a live performance at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

Day 4: Nature and Outdoors

Morning: Take a day trip to William B. Umstead State Park for hiking and nature exploration.

Lunch: Picnic in the park or grab lunch at a local eatery near the park.

Afternoon: Explore the Raleigh City Market, a historic shopping district.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Irregardless Cafe, known for its farm-to-table dishes.

Day 5: Art and Creativity

Morning: Visit the CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum) for a dose of modern art.

Lunch: Try the farm-fresh options at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey.

Afternoon: Explore the Raleigh Warehouse District with its creative and artsy vibes.

Evening: Attend a local art exhibit or gallery opening for an artistic experience.

Day 6: University Culture

Morning: Take a tour of the beautiful NC State University campus.

Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal at Amedeo’s, a classic Italian-American restaurant near campus.

Afternoon: Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum to appreciate the greenery.

Evening: Attend a local university event, lecture, or game.

Day 7: Culinary Adventures

Morning: Explore the State Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Lunch: Indulge in a diverse culinary experience at Morgan Street Food Hall.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk in Pullen Park, Raleigh’s oldest amusement park.

Evening: End the trip with a fine dining experience at Herons at the Umstead Hotel and Spa.

Throughout the week, we would also make time to discover the local music scene, catch some live performances, and meet some of the creative and interesting people who call Raleigh home. Raleigh is a city with a rich blend of culture, nature, and artistic expression, making it a perfect destination for a memorable trip

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout for this series to my cousin who is like a brother to me, Maineestreamm of NoizeKlub. Believe it or not, both of our creative careers blossomed from the same room and space. We had lived together for a short amount of time and while he was making 10-15 beats a day as a producer, I was working on my first collection for Arturo Rose as a designer. During this time we really realized you can do anything you put your mind to with the right mindset. He definitely deserves credit and his flowers for what he has done and overcome because it surely was not easy. Witnessing what he has accomplished in real time is inspiring.

Website: https://www.arturorose.com/

Instagram: @arturo_clothing

Twitter: @arturo_clothing

Image Credits
@eyesofevess