An Interview with Martín & Mónica Piris
An Interview with Martín & Mónica Piris
Of Piris Mallorca
Mónica and Martín Piris, siblings and heirs to a craft tradition dating back to 1950, are experts in producing “Made in Spain” leather garments in Inca, Mallorca. As the second generation, they continue to create authentic pieces, transforming high-quality leather into unique, exclusive works of art. Their focus on elegance, design, and comfort ensures that their standout creation—the versatile “Jumpsuit”—adapts seamlessly to any time of day, offering unmatched softness and wearability. “Piris Mallorca” emphasises its 100% handmade craftsmanship, ensuring timeless quality. Their pieces remain a must-have in any wardrobe, always staying ahead of trends.

By Mar Piris
25/11/24
Martín, “Piris Mallorca” only creates handmade leather garments. How is your brand 100% unique?
It starts with the leather itself. We use top-quality Merino sheep leather tanned by the best Spanish tanners, employing traditional techniques that are over 500 years old. This ensures that we use the finest raw materials, which our highly experienced artisans—many with over 70 years of experience—carefully craft by hand.
Do you remember visiting your father’s factory as a child? What caught your attention the most?
The first thing I remember was the scent of the leather—a very pleasant, unmistakable smell. It was nothing like the mass-produced products you sometimes find at market stalls. What truly struck me was the women working in the factory. They were ordinary women, like those you’d see shopping or knitting, but they worked with such care and love, and that made an impression on me.Inca is known as the city of leather.
How has the city evolved over the years, and what are your thoughts on your company’s 75-year legacy?
Unfortunately, many of the more than 100 leather and footwear workshops in Inca in the 1970s have closed. We’re now the only remaining artisan workshop still creating garments entirely by hand. It’s a bittersweet achievement, but it reflects our dedication to preserving this craft.
What do you think drives the Mallorcans to continue producing high-quality craftsmanship while preserving their culture and traditions?
Our customers keep us motivated. They continue wearing our garments, and as the years pass, they bring their family and friends to us, recommending our brand wherever they go. That loyalty and trust are the true value of “Piris Mallorca.” We pride ourselves on making a difference.
What’s the secret behind “Piris Mallorca”?
The secret lies in the legacy of our father, Bartolomé Piris. He had a unique understanding of how to translate patterns into leather, creating garments from leather, not fabric. He also listened closely to our customers, addressing their needs based on climate, geography, and fashion trends.
After working abroad, you returned to Mallorca 26 years ago to join the family business during a difficult time for the sector, especially amid Spain’s economic crisis. Would you make the same decision again?
Without a doubt. Returning to the family business was the best decision of my life. Working with family in the fashion and leather industries is an irreplaceable experience.
We often say that reality surpasses fiction. Which comic book hero or character would you identify with?
I’ve always liked comics, and if I had to choose, I’d say I relate to “Hulk.” He transforms only when those he loves—or he himself—are in need of help.
Mónica, you got involved in the family business at a young age. How do you now view your experience in the leather industry?
I started 30 years ago, initially filling in for a person on maternity leave, but I quickly became passionate about it. Now, it’s just second nature for me. I love what I do, though I acknowledge it’s a very challenging industry.
Of Piris Mallorca
Mónica and Martín Piris, siblings and heirs to a craft tradition dating back to 1950, are experts in producing “Made in Spain” leather garments in Inca, Mallorca. “Piris Mallorca” emphasises its 100% handmade craftsmanship, ensuring timeless quality. Their pieces remain a must-have in any wardrobe, always staying ahead of trends.
What’s the secret behind “Piris Mallorca”?
The secret lies in the legacy of our father, Bartolomé Piris. He had a unique understanding of how to translate patterns into leather, creating garments from leather, not fabric. He also listened closely to our customers, addressing their needs based on climate, geography, and fashion trends.
After working abroad, you returned to Mallorca 26 years ago to join the family business during a difficult time for the sector, especially amid Spain’s economic crisis. Would you make the same decision again?
Without a doubt. Returning to the family business was the best decision of my life. Working with family in the fashion and leather industries is an irreplaceable experience.
We often say that reality surpasses fiction. Which comic book hero or character would you identify with?
I’ve always liked comics, and if I had to choose, I’d say I relate to “Hulk.” He transforms only when those he loves—or he himself—are in need of help.
Mónica, you got involved in the family business at a young age. How do you now view your experience in the leather industry?
I started 30 years ago, initially filling in for a person on maternity leave, but I quickly became passionate about it. Now, it’s just second nature for me. I love what I do, though I acknowledge it’s a very challenging industry.
As the head of the “Piris Mallorca” workshop, how would you describe a typical day of production? What stands out for you?
My role is to coordinate the workshop. I manage the workflow, from preparing the leather for cutting to overseeing the seamstresses who craft the garments with precision. What stands out most to me is the interaction with the artisans—the cutters and seamstresses—because I learn something new from them every day. The finished garment represents all their hard work, and seeing the customer’s satisfaction makes it all worthwhile.
Mónica, you have a “Showroom” where customers can view the latest collections. Do you also create leather accessories for your more fashion-forward clients?
At our “Showroom,” customers can explore both our seasonal collections and iconic pieces. As for accessories, while we don’t specialise in those, I’ve learned a lot from the artisans over the years. In my spare time, I create purses and handbags from leftover leather. I hate the idea of wasting any material, and it’s become a fun hobby. Many of my friends and family still use the bags I’ve made for them.
Again, we know reality surpasses fiction. Which comic book heroine or character do you identify with?
I’d say I relate to “Edna Mode” from The Incredibles. She’s a designer who manages the superhero uniforms and takes care of the family. While I’m not a mother, I care for my partner’s children and all my siblings’ kids. Like Edna, I am a “Mestressa”—a woman who takes charge of the household and looks after the family in every way.
Visits made by Appointment only
Carrer d’Antoni María Alcover, 9,
07300 Inca, Illes Balears
T: 971 50 13 58
F: 971 50 12 83