Anthony Melillo, the Miami-based designer known for his innovative and comfortable clothing, has launched DearMax, a brand dedicated solely to the cashmere sweater. This latest venture is a testament to Melillo’s commitment to perfecting the essentials, something he’s been doing throughout his career.
DearMax is more than just a clothing line. It’s a celebration of family, love, and the power of simplicity. The brand’s minimalist approach centers around a classic crew-necked cashmere sweater crafted from luxurious Lora Piana yarn and manufactured using waste-free 3D technology in Los Angeles. Each sweater is meticulously designed and comes in a range of understated colors, allowing for personalization with initials or a personal mantra.
Melillo’s inspiration for DearMax stems from a desire to create a piece that embodies comfort and style. He envisions the sweater as a staple in any wardrobe, perfect for layering or wearing as a statement piece. The brand’s name itself is a tribute to his eight-year-old son, Max, who serves as a constant source of inspiration.
However, DearMax is also a poignant reflection on the current social climate. Melillo and his husband, Lance Miletich, relocated to Miami seeking a more family-friendly environment for their son. While they found a beautiful life for Max, they also witnessed a concerning rise in hostility towards the LGBTQIA+ community in Florida. Melillo acknowledges the challenges and expresses his commitment to using his platform to advocate for equality and justice.
In line with his values, Melillo has partnered with Baby2Baby, a national nonprofit organization that provides essential items to disadvantaged children. A portion of the proceeds from DearMax sales will be donated to support Baby2Baby’s mission of helping families in need.
Melillo’s dedication to creating something meaningful extends beyond just designing beautiful sweaters. He sees DearMax as an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world, one sweater at a time. As he celebrates his 60th birthday, Melillo reflects on the importance of giving back and making a difference. His vision for DearMax is to create a brand that embodies not just comfort and style but also love, family, and social responsibility.
Shop the DearMax collection at [https://dearmax.com/](https://dearmax.com/).
