Interview with Gabriella Gazianetti, founder of unitedseparable by Minimal Path, a brand that cares about sustainability and traceability

Who are you? Tell us a little about yourself.

I started my career in a very technical and analytical field, working with numbers, structured processes, and optimization methodologies. Over time, I developed a project-oriented approach focused on innovation and finding effective solutions. I became fascinated by concepts like deconstruction and modularity as tools to analyze complexity—they allow you to imagine early on the possible evolutions and transformations in how a product or system is used, giving you a fresh perspective on reality. A few years ago, I wondered whether these principles could be rigorously applied to women’s fashion, to enhance reuse and versatility. This led me to explore modularity in clothing, diving into circular economy and eco-design concepts, and studying material traceability in depth.

Why did you start your brand, unitedseparable by Minimal Path? What’s its mission?

Minimal Path started in 2019 as a small research-driven initiative focused on modular design and sustainability in fashion. After studying and experimenting with modular fashion concepts for women, we refined a small collection of divisible clothing and traditional garments under the unitedseparable label.

Our goal is to create a system of interchangeable clothing that can evolve over time, incorporating new elements that pair well with older pieces. With this collection, we developed and tested a series of indicators to assess the feasibility of our approach in relation to ESG impact, following European guidelines. The aim is twofold: first, to establish indicators for measuring impact and offer a strategic tool to evolve the unitedseparable collection; second, to share the methodology with other organizations to make sustainability and transparency accessible, measurable, and applicable. This way, we provide practical, adaptable solutions that are ready to be implemented and tested.

What does sustainability mean to you today?

For me, sustainability isn’t an abstract idea—it’s a personal and tangible commitment, applied and measured in daily life, beyond regulations and trends. In a professional context, it means considering the full lifecycle of a product and its impact on the planet and communities—from sourcing raw materials to what happens when the product is no longer in use. Sustainability isn’t a destination; it’s an ongoing process. Advances in material technologies, machinery, data availability, and analytical tools enable us to continuously refine indicators and evaluations. This makes sustainability a constant effort to optimize, progressively and consciously, aiming to reduce and, where possible, eliminate impacts.

What’s your favorite Canclini 1925 fabric, and why?

We’ve worked with several Canclini 1925 fabrics, but two stand out: organic cotton and Melton cotton.

Organic cotton was selected for the collection and a case study on upstream supply chain impact. Its pesticide-free cultivation has a lower environmental footprint than conventional cotton, making it a more responsible choice. With Canclini’s support, we estimated impacts like CO2 emissions, water, and energy use across the supply chain—not to achieve precise figures, but to grasp the complexity of data collection in a long, intricate supply chain and create reference points for impact estimation applicable to other materials.

Melton cotton impressed us with its durability and ease of care. We used it to create modular garments, skirts, and accessories. Its compact structure makes it a great alternative to wool, with the advantage of simpler everyday maintenance. Compared to animal fibers, it requires less care in washing and upkeep, reducing its environmental impact during use.

Together, these fabrics represent two complementary aspects of our work: the first focuses on upstream sustainability, while the second emphasizes practicality, durability, and ease of use downstream.

How have you collaborated with startups and universities?

In my R&D experiences, I’ve worked with various universities—a vital step to ensure the accuracy and rigor of project decisions and compliance with standards.

Even for our proprietary indicators, I believe it’s crucial to validate the framework with academic experts to transform it into a shared and useful tool for other organizations. I hope this method can provide concrete support for emerging businesses and SMEs, helping them tackle European regulations gradually and thoughtfully, without reducing sustainability to mere certification compliance.

Our approach aims to offer clear, simple tools to progressively integrate ESG principles into business strategies sustainably over time.

What do you think of the fashion industry today, and how can it improve?

I’ve approached this industry with curiosity and respect, aware of its complexity. Thanks to Canclini’s collaboration, I had the chance to observe textile processes and dynamics up close. I found an industry rich in expertise and tradition, facing challenges, especially in flexibility and sustainability.

I believe change must come through evolving certain business models to foster a cultural shift that leads to greater awareness in using materials responsibly and valuing product quality. There’s already significant attention on these topics, and I think, with a gradual and innovative approach, the Italian textile-fashion sector can evolve without losing its artisanal and industrial value.

You’re very elegant—what’s your favorite outfit?

I wouldn’t say I’m elegant, but I try to choose outfits that embody simplicity, timelessness, and subtle sophistication, with a nod to the 1960s. This style lets me express my personality authentically and consistently. I love minimalist aesthetics—few but well-made pieces that are versatile and can be reinterpreted for different occasions, creating varied looks without needing a large wardrobe.

I enjoy experimenting with combinations while staying true to an essential style. I prefer pieces with quality textures that gain character over time, and I often play with materials and textures. I like mixing items I already own with new additions, creating balanced contrasts between past and present.

I deeply believe in the value of high-quality fabrics for sustainable fashion—a well-made garment lasts longer and retains its beauty. Fashion is also about this: thoughtful reinterpretation, finding new ways to appreciate what we already have.

Casual moments: is there a place, atmosphere, or habit that has influenced your taste and style?

I love Lago Maggiore, and its atmosphere has undoubtedly shaped my vision and sensibilities. It’s a place of subtle colors and understated beauty, with gentle breezes and a balance that never feels excessive. But there are also striking moments—white mountains turning violet at sunset and shimmering reflections on the water, where pink dominates.

This balance reflects my approach to projects, guiding my experimentation in textile-fashion with a small prototype collection of simple yet well-crafted pieces, elegant materials without ostentation, and understated combinations that can embrace vibrant accents when desired, without forcing it.