Roberto Montes (Madrid, 1992) did not emerge from a fashion school nor did he learn pattern-making in a family workshop. Before establishing Bibencia, the brand he is showcasing at 080 Barcelona Fashion, he studied Social Work and practiced in the field. A period of depression led him to rebuild his life from scratch in València, where sewing became an outlet for therapy and expression.
His foray into design began self-taught, using a 60-euro Ikea sewing machine. This humble beginning, marked by trial and error, laid the foundation for an aesthetic that now defines Bibencia, characterized by corsetry, feathers, and a dramatic, romantic femininity. The brand has attracted the attention of public figures such as Lola Índigo, Laura Escanes, Anabel Pantoja, and Alana, La Hija del Jeque.
“"At home, I never saw a sewing machine in my life. I remember my grandmother making me costumes with safety pins."
The COVID-19 pandemic served as a turning point. During a time of uncertainty, a friend sent him sewing materials, enabling him to create his first pieces. One of these was featured in a Valencian magazine, prompting him to consider sewing as more than just a hobby. His partner, Néstor, joined the project, managing the business and administrative aspects, while Montes focuses on design and creation.
The name Bibencia originated from a letter from his grandmother, who misspelled "vivencia" (experience) with a 'b', an error Montes adopted as a tribute to memory and the journey of experiences. His debut collection, Penélope, is inspired by Ulysses' wife, symbolizing discipline, perseverance, and the good fortune earned through effort. The collection maintains the brand's signature elements with corsetry, bows, and a color palette including pastel pink, light blue, white, black, and burgundy.
“"True good luck arises when the desire to be happy meets the courage never to give up."
Despite his success and growing visibility, Montes maintains a realistic perspective on the fashion industry. He balances Bibencia with another job at a university stationery store in València, acknowledging that visibility does not always translate into income. Every commission and sale is celebrated as a personal achievement and a sign that his work is on the right track.
