Frequent Asked Questions

About the Products
At Telling Roses, we carefully select branded second-hand, vintage, or new garments from a variety of sources — from online platforms to local vintage markets. We choose pieces that stand out for their design and personality. Each garment is then upcycled and enriched with hand-embroidered artworks created by Italian artist Bruna Manera, the Artist of the Roses. Behind are also the creative concepts from Maria Scuto, founder of Telling Roses. Every piece is unique, carrying a story both old and new.

About Returns
Since every Telling Roses piece is one-of-a-kind, we cannot offer size exchanges or replacements. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us — we will happily provide a full refund or, if you prefer, a voucher of equal value to use on a future purchase.

About Pricing
We aim to keep our prices fair and accessible, while also valuing the time, skill, and artistry that goes into each handcrafted creation. Purchasing a Telling Roses piece means investing in artisanal craftsmanship and sustainable fashion.

About Shipping
Telling Roses currently ships within Europe. As a small duo with limited capacity, we focus on delivering to Europe for now. We commit to sending your order within a few days and will keep you updated on your delivery every step of the way.

About Artworks
Each piece is handcrafted, so small imperfections are part of its charm and authenticity. On the inside, the back of the embroidery is covered with a thin tissue to stabilize the stitches — it naturally dissolves after the first wash. You may also see faint hand-drawn marks on the fabric, used as a guide for stitching. These disappear after washing and are proof of the original, handmade artwork.

Why are the pieces numbered No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, etc.?
Because each artwork on the garments is handmade and based on original drawings, every item is unique. The numbering simply indicates the order in which it was created. Even within the same collection or garment type, no two embroideries are identical. Our artist always introduces small variations in the design or colors, so each Blue Rose Triskelion or Red Rose Hip item remains a one-of-a-kind piece.

Care Tips
Yes, you can wash Telling Roses creations in your washing machine. To keep them in perfect condition, turn your garment inside out and wash at 30°C or below. For pieces made of silk or wool, please select the appropriate delicate washing programs.

About Telling Roses
We are a small artisanal brand dedicated to upcycling garments and enriching them with unique, hand-crafted artwork. We combine a love for roses, symbolism, and meaningful fashion to create pieces that are unique, sustainable and worth to be cherished and passed on. Learn more in our About Us section.

Where does the name “Telling Roses” come from?
Telling Roses has a double meaning: roses that tell stories, and us—Maria and Bruna—expressing rose symbolism through hand-embroidery, ceramic painting, and drawing. The name reflects the idea that roses can “speak” through their meanings. Each type and color carries a message shaped by mythology, art, folklore, poetry, religion, and even the Victorian language of flowers. Across cultures and centuries, the rose remains a timeless symbol— and Telling Roses is here to keep its stories alive and ever relevant.

What is the Rose Chalice?
The Rose Chalice is part of the Telling Roses logo, designed by illustrator Marco Scuto. Its overlapping petals evoke the rose as a “holder of water” and are inspired by historical parallels drawn between the rose and the Holy Grail. The Rose Chalice embodies the secret wisdom of the rose and the timeless symbols it conveys.

Who are the Rose Tellers?
The Rose Tellers are our community of enthusiasts who share a fascination for roses as symbols. Together, we celebrate artisanal beauty, symbolism, and creativity, building connections through the stories and artistry behind each piece.

About the Founder & the Artist
Maria Scuto
is based in Munich and is the founder and creative mind behind Telling Roses. She is the daughter of Bruna Manera, the artist. With a background in PR and communications, Maria is now bringing to life a small, artisanal brand that celebrates artistry, uniqueness, and meaningful fashion.

Bruna Manera lives in Chiavari, Italy, and is the artist behind Telling Roses’ original drawings and hand-embroidered creations. A graduate of the Arts Academy of Brera in Milan, Bruna has dedicated her life to drawing roses and teaching decorative painting. She also raised three children and enjoys giving new life to vintage clothes and ceramics through her painting and embroidery.