written by JJ Anderson, Madeline Hines, Mia Besl & Carys Abbott
This blog feature is an exclusive bonus installment to our Spring issue of Blending Magazine. After you finish reading, be sure to explore the rest of the magazine online—just follow this link to download the full Spring 2025 edition:
https://jschoolfua.com/images/BM/BM_151.pdf
Rooted in Florence’s rich tradition, this brand creates bespoke leather pieces that embody authenticity and artisanal skill, standing apart from fast fashion.
When most people think of Italy’s vibrant fashion industry, names like Prada, Gucci, and Valentino often come to mind. However, for those who truly appreciate the essence of local craftsmanship, there’s a lesser-known, yet highly revered brand, Casini Firenze. Nestled in the heart of Florence, the store is a standout in a city already known for its centuries-old leather craftsmanship.
The city’s longstanding practice of leather craftsmanship dates back to the Middle Ages. Florence was found to be an ideal environment for leather production because the Arno River provided access to water needed for time-consuming, labor-intensive techniques like leather tanning. By the 13th century, the city was renowned for producing high-quality leather goods, particularly for the nobility and elite classes across Europe. Over the centuries, Florentine artisans have continuously developed their methods, perfecting the art of tanning and dyeing leather.
In the aftermath of World War II, passionate leather craftsman. Giorgio Tattanelli, opened his family-run business which he named Casini Firenze. Casini specializes in crafting handmade leather totes, wallets, purses and more using authentic Tuscan leather and centuries-old craftsmanship. They pride themselves in being a limited edition brand, upholding timeless Italian values while creating special pieces for each client.
Amid a global fashion economy dominated by the constant manufacturing of mass-produced garments, the brand stands today as a reserved, yet powerful force in Florence’s underground fashion scene.
The store is located in Piazza Pitti, directly across from the Pitti Palace, making it a convenient stop. Upon entering, you’re welcomed by a glass window display showcasing Jennifer Tantinelli’s latest collection. Almost immediately, a sales attendant greets you, ready to elevate your shopping experience. The staff are experts on Casini products and provide a top-tier luxury service to ensure you leave completely satisfied.
After speaking with a few sales representatives it became clear to us that the brand is far different from the fast fashion stores we walk past daily. Casini Firenze‘s unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity proved a stark contrast to the disposable, fleeting nature of mass-produced clothing. Each piece tells a story of dedication, skill, and a deep respect for traditional Florentine artistry that cannot be replicated by factories or synthetic processes.
Specializing in custom made collections, the brand offers clients the opportunity to personalize a piece’s color and style to suit their individual taste. In addition, it provides bespoke services, allowing customers to design a truly one-of-a-kind bag that reflects their personal style and preferences. Among their most iconic creations is the Infinity Leather Basket Bag, a signature piece in the brand’s collection. This bag is made from leather pieces being meticulously weaved in an infinity pattern around a wooden box, giving the piece its signature basket-like look. This bag is available in seven distinct colors, and the customer even has the luxury of adding customizable elements to the bag.
Obviously, these unique pieces would not be created without the brainpower of new designers of the years. In 2002, Jennifer Tantinelli, granddaughter of the brand’s creator and New York native, took the reins of the family business. A lover of classic fashion, Jennifer was inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s timeless style-a vision that aligned perfectly with Casini’s commitment to tradition and elegance. Jennifer followed her family’s roots back to Italy and under her leadership, Casini Firenze transitioned into a modern-day luxury brand while still honoring its artisanal roots.
Despite facing numerous challenges, most notably the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Jennifer’s vision has allowed the brand to thrive. While the flagship store in Florence closed for nearly two years during the height of the pandemic, Jennifer was able to sustain her business through its location in Palm Beach, Florida.
One of the defining features of Casini Firenze is its commitment to maintaining full control over the production process. Unlike many luxury brands that outsource production, Casini prides itself on being self-reliant. The Tantinelli family makes all the leather products in-house, working with local artisans to ensure each piece reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship. This hands-on approach has allowed the brand to retain its authenticity and the hallmark spirit of Florence’s leather legacy.