ABOUT STILELIBERO

A COLLABORATIVE BRAND BY MATTHEW WAILES AND ILARIA PERRA.

Founded by artist Ilaria Perra, Stilelibero is an art-led studio specialising in artist-designed textiles and luxury rugs, translating original contemporary artwork into expressive pieces for interiors and fashion.

At the core of Stilelibero is Ilaria’s contemporary art practice, bold, playful, and inspired by emotion and the natural world. Each collection begins as an original artwork and is carefully transformed into handmade pieces, textiles and rugs, where colour, texture, and material bring the art to life.

Produced in collaboration with skilled artisans in the UK and internationally, Stilelibero’s luxury fashion, textiles and rugs are made to order, supporting thoughtful production, reduced waste, and enduring craftsmanship. The studio also creates a curated selection of sculptural jewellery and accessories using sustainable materials.

Every Stilelibero piece is designed to be lived with, art translated into tactile, ethical luxury for contemporary interiors.

The Journey of Stilelibero: From Sustainable Innovation to Wearable Art

Artist, designer, and Stilelibero founder Ilaria Perra launched the company in 2005 with a world-first: the original cork yoga mat. Born from a desire to replace synthetic materials with sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives, this pioneering innovation earned industry-wide acclaim and was featured in prestigious publications including Vogue, The Guardian, and leading health and wellness magazines. While often imitated, Ilaria’s original concept remains the benchmark for quality and meticulous attention to detail.

A New Vision for Luxury Interiors & Fashion 

In 2021, a meeting at Decorex between Ilaria and Matthew sparked a partnership rooted in a shared passion for art, fashion, and luxury interiors. Their inaugural collaboration, the Impressioni Handmade Rug Collection, marked the rebirth of Stilelibero under the philosophy: 

Art for Design - Fashion for Interiors

This venture seamlessly blends Ilaria's artistic flair with Matthew's expertise in bespoke product design and artisan production.

Tactile Luxury & Bespoke Craftsmanship 

Today, Stilelibero has expanded into a full-scale luxury lifestyle brand. Our collections feature made-to-order interior decor and artisan fashion accessories, including:

  • Bespoke handmade rugs and luxury fabrics
  • Designer cushions and artistic lampshades
  • Hand-finished cashmere shawls and printed silk scarves

Infused with a bold, playful spirit, every creation is inspired by Ilaria’s original contemporary artwork. Rooted in the expression of emotion and the beauty of the natural world, our pieces translate artistic vision into tactile luxury. By choosing our made-to-order model, you support sustainable slow fashion and high-end craftsmanship designed to last a lifetime.

About the Artist: Ilaria Perra, Multi-Media Artist and Designer

Ilaria Perra is an Italian multi-media artist and designer whose work sits at the intersection of fine art, luxury fashion, and sustainable innovation. Her prestigious academic background includes an Art & Design diploma from Chelsea College of Art and a BA in Fashion Womenswear from Central Saint Martins (CSM), supplemented by specialist graphic design training at Shillington College.

With over 15 years of experience as an Associate Lecturer at Central Saint Martins, Ilaria has shaped the next generation of designers, teaching CAD for Fashion Design. Her technical expertise and unique aesthetic have led to her fashion illustrations being featured in several authoritative Fashion Design textbooks.

A Pioneer in Sustainable Design 

In 2005, Ilaria’s commitment to eco-conscious living led her to create the world’s first Cork Yoga Mat, a pioneering sustainable product that launched her design company, Stilelibero. This spirit of innovation continues today through her focus on made-to-order production and the use of ethical materials like sustainable vegetable ivory.

The Stilelibero Philosophy: Art for Fashion 

Every Stilelibero piece begins as an original painting or mixed-media artwork by Ilaria. By translating her emotive, nature-inspired canvases into handmade silk scarves, bespoke rugs, and luxury knitwear, she offers collectors "wearable art." Her process ensures that the soul of the original artwork is preserved in every tactile, luxury finish.

Meet Matthew: Specialist in Bespoke Luxury Rugs & Textiles

Matthew is a highly skilled handmade rug and textile designer who brings over 35 years of experience in the luxury interior design industry to Stilelibero. Throughout his distinguished career, Matthew has earned a reputation for exceptional talent, technical precision, and an unrivalled attention to detail in the creation of bespoke carpets and rugs.

In 2009, he founded Matthew Wailes (London) Ltd, a premier name in the high-end residential and commercialinteriors market. His portfolio includes collaborations with some of the world’s most iconic interior design brands and prestigious projects across the globe.

A Specialist in Artisan Production & Product Design 

Matthew is a recognized expert in product design, material composition, and technical suitability. His deep knowledge of textile production ensures that every Stilelibero piece - from luxury handmade rugs to artisan fabrics - is not only aesthetically beautiful but crafted to the highest functional standards.

His expertise encompasses:

  • Bespoke Project Management & Consulting
  • Specialist Textile Production & Installation
  • Luxury Material Sourcing & Sustainability

Crafting the Future of Stilelibero 

At Stilelibero, Matthew bridges the gap between Ilaria’s artistic vision and the reality of made-to-order production. His unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that every handmade textile enhances the elegance of any interior space. By overseeing the flawless execution of each project, Matthew ensures that Stilelibero remains a leader in tactile luxury and bespoke design.