In the world of luxury fashion, few brands embody cultural richness, inclusivity, and elegance as seamlessly as Ciao by CC. Founded in March 2020 by visionary Creative Director Brittney Campbell, this U.S.-based brand, crafted in Italy, merges sophistication with the vibrant influences of Campbell’s Jamaican-Caribbean heritage. Through meticulously tailored garments and an unwavering commitment to celebrating women of all sizes, Ciao by CC is redefining the landscape of high fashion.
A Legacy of Elegance and Craftsmanship
Brittney Campbell’s journey into fashion was profoundly shaped by her upbringing in Kingston, Jamaica. Inspired by the strong and stylish women in her family, especially her mother and aunts, Campbell grew up witnessing the power of fashion as a form of expression and confidence. Her mother’s love for oversized hats, refined yet modest fashion, and meticulous accessorizing played a crucial role in shaping Campbell’s aesthetic.
Her family’s tradition of bespoke tailoring, deeply rooted in precision and quality craftsmanship, instilled in Campbell an appreciation for structure, fit, and timeless silhouettes. From observing the artful draping of sarongs and kaftans to witnessing her grandparents’ work in an atelier, these early influences have become the backbone of Ciao by CC’s brand identity.
Jamaican-Caribbean Influence in Luxury Fashion
When asked about the role of her Caribbean heritage in shaping Ciao by CC, Campbell shares:
“My Jamaican-Caribbean heritage is deeply woven into the DNA of Ciao by CC. Growing up in Kingston, I was surrounded by bold colors, vibrant textiles, and the effortless elegance of island style. My love for tailoring, fluid silhouettes, and statement accessories stems from these experiences.”
Campbell’s collections often reflect the easy glamour of the islands, incorporating flowy resort wear, structured tailoring, and rich hues reminiscent of tropical landscapes. The ocean, which played a huge role in her life as a former competitive swimmer, also influences her designs, leading to resort-inspired pieces that exude both relaxation and sophistication.
Honoring Inclusivity in Luxury Fashion
A key pillar of Ciao by CC is its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that luxury fashion is accessible to women of all sizes. Campbell recalls her own experiences of feeling excluded from high fashion spaces and emphasizes her mission to change that narrative:
“At Ciao, I design with the belief that a woman’s size should never dictate her access to luxury. Whether you’re a size 2 or 16, you should be able to wear a stunning, well-crafted piece that makes you feel powerful.”
The brand prioritizes expert tailoring, adjustable silhouettes, and carefully structured garments that flatter a diverse range of body types. This focus on empowerment through fashion has garnered an overwhelmingly positive response from consumers who no longer feel the need to compromise between fit and style.
Balancing Boldness and Elegance
Ciao by CC masterfully blends boldness with elegance, creating statement pieces that remain timeless. When discussing her design philosophy, Campbell explains:
“The key to balancing boldness and elegance is restraint—knowing when to push boundaries and when to refine. Many people think being bold in fashion means being loud, but you can make a statement while maintaining sophistication.”
Her collections feature structured silhouettes in vibrant colors, juxtaposed with clean tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Whether through a striking blazer, a flowing gown, or a dramatic hat, each piece carries a sense of empowerment and poise.
The Art of Italian Craftsmanship
Despite being a U.S.-based brand, Ciao by CC’s production is rooted in Italy, a decision that elevates the brand’s commitment to quality and luxury. When asked why Italy was the chosen base for production, Campbell states:
“Italy is the soul of Ciao. The country’s dedication to artistry, precision, and craftsmanship aligns with our brand values. Producing in Italy ensures that every garment is made with the highest level of expertise, rivaling heritage fashion houses.”
By partnering with skilled Italian artisans, Ciao by CC is able to maintain a level of craftsmanship that reflects its premium positioning in the market.
A Vision for the Future
Beyond designing exquisite garments, Campbell is also known for her boundary-pushing campaign shoots, merging high fashion with cultural storytelling. Each campaign transports viewers into a world where heritage, empowerment, and artistry collide. She explains:
“For me, fashion is about storytelling. I want our campaigns to immerse people in a vision—whether it’s the beaches of Morocco, the streets of Milan, or the vibrancy of Kingston.”
Ciao by CC continues to push the envelope in merging tradition with modernity, offering designs that feel both nostalgic and contemporary. As for her message to aspiring Black designers and entrepreneurs, Campbell encourages perseverance:
“You can break barriers in this industry. It won’t always be easy, but if you have passion, resilience, and a strong vision, you can create something meaningful. Black creativity is limitless, and we deserve a seat at the table.”
Honoring Black Excellence in Fashion
As we celebrate Black History Month, brands like Ciao by CC remind us of the power of Black artistry, resilience, and innovation in the fashion industry. With a foundation rooted in heritage, inclusivity, and elegance, Brittney Campbell is not just designing clothes—she’s crafting a legacy.
For those who seek luxury with a story, Ciao by CC is more than a brand; it’s a movement, redefining the world of high fashion one exquisite garment at a time.
