Ferdinando Sarmi: A Life in Fashion Ferdinando Sarmi (1912-1982) was an Italian-born American fashion designer and businessman who left a distinctive mark on the world of haute couture and ready-to-wear. He headed the Sarmi fashion design house in New York City, becoming known for his vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and pioneering use of innovative textile techniques. Early Life and Influences Born into a wealthy Italian family in Trieste, Italy, Sarmi displayed an early interest in fashion. However, his father discouraged him from pursuing a design career, pushing for more tradition…