With every OTEA collection, we are introduced to a new person in Otea Pollera’s world, carrying a new story and new dreams.
Our sophomore collection is inspired by Velia Clare Pollera Vota, a woman whose
life was woven from devotion, resilience, and quiet elegance.
Each pattern in this collection draws from the textures of her world: the scratchy botanical fabric on her living room sofas, the scent of her favorite perfume, the sound of her voice carrying “’O Sole Mio” through the air, her sensible striped aprons, and her fashionable costume jewelry.
Velia was born the daughter of Italian immigrants who crossed the Atlantic for a
better life. Her mother left her homeland with a one-year-old in her arms and a three-year-old daughter left behind in Italy. That daughter, Otea, Velia’s sister, would remain a presence in the family’s stories for generations to come. This collection honors Otea’s sorellina, Velia.
THE RENDEZVOUS
Otea emerges from the longing of late afternoon. There is a sultry stillness in this amber space. The hour of miele. Honey.
The story starts with the longing. And with letting ourselves get led by our longing. It is a small, secreted possession passed hand to hand—a matchbook, a cocktail napkin, a seaside postcard.
We land inside the story—we are already at the table. With her. Aperitivi and fritto misto are before us. Citrus zest. Salt crystal. Sea fruit. A sip of Vermentino.
There is no “coming to” Otea’s world. We were born into the warmth of its sensorial surround sound.
Otea takes her place at the table. It is the rhythm of return. She finds her way by feel. And she calls us back.
