Our friend, Gianna Papadopoulou, or (“Gia” as she is commonly known as) is becoming a frequent flyer within our virtual pages. In our first interview, we discussed her travels and her skydiving escapades. The second time around, we decided to let the pictures speak for themselves, capturing her adventures and daredevil stunts. So why a third time, you may ask? Well, if you’ve seen the previous articles about her that we’ve done, you’ll know that we don’t need a reason to do it again. This time, however, we’re talking to the jewel of Dubai about her new venture that doesn’t require her to scale tall buildings whilst dressed in Balmain.

Gia has created a brand of resort wear that one might think was forged by Hephaestus himself, but they are, in fact, hand-crafted by mortals. Their stunning raiment transudes elegance and luxury. Inspired by ancient Mediterranean civilizations, Gia Bianca was born amidst the havoc of the pandemic to become the premier couture resort wear designer, thus far, unmatched by any other. Of all the stunts Gia has performed, this surely must be her greatest accomplishment. This is her gift of beauty and luxury to the world.

There are so many people (some of whom I have interviewed in recent months) who have started their businesses during the height of the pandemic. Now you’ve done the same. Could you not wait until the pandemic abated?

We decided to take a leap of faith and somehow use the situation in our favor. People did not necessarily stop shopping, instead, they redirected their interest toward the online platforms due to the quarantine.

With this in consideration, we dedicated our time to creating and perfecting our brand and offering customers an exciting method of shopping via our website. Our photoshoots were made in dream locations with the intention to allow our customers to foresee their upcoming future travels and holidays around the world. Basically, trying to uplift their spirits and give them hope for the world post quarantine.

What influenced your decision to create a resort wear line of clothing?

My fascination with beachwear and fashion brands reminded me of holidays and fun times by the pool, sunset cocktails, and fine dining on the beach. Since my heart belongs to the sun, sand, and ocean, I just followed my heart and it led me to Gia Bianca's creation.

There is literally nothing like what you’ve done. Nothing. How did you come up with this fabulous concept?

This concept is truly unique.

I combined the traditional hand-knots art of macrame with Mediterranean coast and Greek mythology-inspired designs. My inspiration comes mainly from the iconic styles of Greek Goddesses and Nymphs.

Your wares are hand-made, which I am sure is very time-consuming and labor-intensive. Why did you choose to create your clothing in this manner?

True, it can take us up to two days to make one dress. But this is what adds value and a human touch to our collection. Unique and individual. Personalized according to what our customers want, our handmade clothes are made sustainable, without any emissions of any kind, which is less harmful to the environment.

I remember in a conversation we had when you first launched, and business was slow, likely due to the pandemic. But, you persisted and brought your ideas to fruition. Was there ever any doubt that you would be successful, or were you confident all along?

There was never a doubt! With hard work and a lot of patience, taking one step at a time, success is inevitable. It’s important to start and never stop going forward. There were always challenges, up until today, however we learn and always look forward to becoming better.

Have you any prior experience in being a couturière?

As far back as I can remember, I was making crafts, fashion items, and beachwear. However, I made them for myself only, as I wanted to have uniques designs and styles. I had in mind that one day I would like to make it into business but I was a master procrastinator and I learned my lesson the hard way. C’est la vie

What sort of materials are used in your resort wear?

We use satin cord in 9 different colors, completed with brass, gold-tone metal details.

I was really impressed to see that your designs are inspired by Mediterranean and Greek mythological figures. I think it’s a brilliant idea. What prompted your decision on this?

Since I am half Greek, it is in my blood. (laughter). I feel a strong connection and fascination with ancient Greek culture and mythology. It has shaped cultures and traditions, inspired the names of planets, scientific terms, places, books, movies, and architectural designs. Let’s not forget all the legends and the valuable lessons they taught us.

How long does it typically take to make one of your outfits?

Somewhere between four hours and two days.

What are your customers saying?

Our customers are providing a “to die for” feedback. And we are extremely proud and happy. It is a spiritual reward in terms of our brand. Our focus has always been to offer our customers an unforgettable experience when shopping with us and we achieved that target from all aspects.

We are constantly working to keep up with our customers’ needs and maintain consistency in our high standard.

I am certain that Gia Bianca will soon become bigger than it is currently. Should that happen, do you intend to expand into making other things, such as gowns or accessories?

We absolutely intend to diversify and expand. We are currently working on accessories and swimsuits to complement our resort wear. Our customers are already demanding it, and we work hard to please our customers. But as I mentioned, everything is step by step, we focus on quality before anything else.

Shop Gia Bianca and follow on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Gia’s jaunts on Instagram.