Shmoney D
Italy
Diego Aureggi is an Italian-American artist and fashion innovator, best known for founding Piece Unik, a platform dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion through one-of-one, artist-designed garments. Born in New York and raised between Italy and France, Diego's multicultural upbringing ignited his passion for fashion as a means of cultural expression. His journey into the world of fashion began at the age of seventeen when he purchased his first unique piece—a garment that transformed his perspective on clothing from mere apparel to wearable art. This pivotal moment led him to stop purchasing mainstream branded garments and to start collecting what he now refers to as "ARTWEAR"—pieces that are not only unique but also sustainable and artistically significant.
Piece Unik, established during Diego's entrepreneurship studies at Northeastern University, serves as both a platform and a service to uplift independent designers. Unlike traditional fashion brands, Piece Unik focuses on curating and showcasing original, sustainable designs without the pressures of mass production. The platform hosts exclusive runway shows that culminate in live auctions, allowing attendees to bid on the showcased pieces, thereby directly supporting the artists. Through this model, Diego aims to create a community where artists can thrive at their own pace, free from the constraints of social media algorithms and commercial pressures. Piece Unik has successfully hosted multiple shows, featuring over a hundred artists from various countries, and has even organized events to support charitable causes, such as a show dedicated to Ukrainian designers that raised $14,000 for humanitarian aid. Diego's vision continues to challenge the conventional fashion industry by emphasizing artistry, sustainability, and community support.




