MICAM Milano (www.micam.it), Milano Fashion & Jewels (www.milanofashionjewels.com), The One Milano (www.theonemilano.com/it) and MIPEL (www.mipel.com) tradeshows closed with 40,950 professional visitors, 45% of whom were international from 140 countries. The best performances from Europe came from Spain, Germany, and France. Outstanding results were also seen from North America, with double-digit growth (Canada and the USA), followed by the Far East, where China and Japan led the way. These tradeshows have reaffirmed their pivotal role in the innovation landscape, meeting market needs, even in challenging times. They have strengthened their position as premier hubs for networking and development, embodying the essence of excellence. Each featured visionary startups and collaborations with educational institutions and universities that offered a journey through creativity and technology. Innovation and creative flair took centre stage, with the most exclusive fashion accessory collections showcased under the spotlight in a glamorous atmosphere that offered a glimpse into future trends.
Sodini, sculptural artworks
In particular, Milano Fashion & Jewels (MF&J) concluded with resounding success. After interviewing numerous exhibitors and buyers, all confirmed that this tradeshow is not only modern and fashionable but also serves as a trend incubator. It stands out as the sole event in Europe with this distinctive format.
Thot Gioielli
Visitors attended fashion catwalks, admired jewelry and accessories, engaged in discussions, and drew inspiration from the latest and upcoming trends.
Lebole Gioielli
For the September 2024 edition, MF&J has chosen to feature a special edition of “Visionaries for Fashion”, a space, born from a significant collaboration with Poli.Design. This area is dedicated to #visionaries collaborating with creative directors and fashion stylists, contributing their valuable creativity to the fashion world. I interviewed Alba Cappellieri, a curator and author renowned in the field of jewelry. She is a Full Professor and Head of Jewelry and Fashion Accessories Programs at the Politecnico of Milan.
Alba Cappellieri
I asked her about the highlights of this special edition of the “Visionaries for Fashion” exhibition and what visitors can expect to admire: “This special edition of Visionaries titled “Visionaries for fashion,” brings together historical and contemporary jewelry, delving into the evolution of materials, techniques, shapes, colors, and wearability within the fashion context. Among the notable highlights are themes of macro and theatricality, exemplified by creations such as De Liguoro’s oversized rings for Rocco Barocco, repurposed as bracelets for the Autumn/Winter 1984/85 fashion show, and the brass braided bracelets crafted for Trussardi, inspired by the “Gold of Taranto” in the Autumn/Winter 1987/88 collection. Regarding materials, crystal plays a key role, as seen in De Liguoro’s necklace for Renato Balestra, from the Spring/Summer 1986 collection, distinguished by its graceful movement. Pearls also take center stage, evident in Sodini’s jewelry and in the creations of Ornella Bijoux for Dolce & Gabbana, reinterpreted in a modern but elegant key. The exhibition also celebrates traditional Italian craftsmanship techniques, updated for contemporary audiences. Examples include cameos by Beads of Aquarius and coral creations by Amlé, showing how heritage can meet new trends. Color is another key focus, vividly displayed in Ornella Bijoux’s creations for Celine using glass beads, in De Liguoro’s enamels for Fausto Sarli, and the use of semi-precious stones in Intini’s jewelry. Traditional symbolism is reinterpreted in Ornella Bijoux’s rosaries for Dolce & Gabbana, transforming sacred elements into fashion accessories. Finally, the theme of wearability is explored through hair jewelry, with accessories designed by Valérie Valentine, Kalliopi Mouratidou & Georgios Georgiadis, and Cécile Boccara. These pieces alongside artworks from Yay Paris and Fiorella Adreani, redefine the relationship between jewelry and attire, transcending conventional boundaries. Visionaries for fashion explores the world of jewelry and fashion with an approach that intertwines past and present, highlighting craftsmanship and the ongoing quest for innovation”.
Sodini
De Liguoro
Cosmo Petrone
Poli.Design collaborates with Milano Fashion & Jewels to outline the Fashion Forecast for fashion jewelry and accessories over the next two years, revealed each edition through the DESIGN DIRECTIONS area. What are the upcoming trends for 2026?
“Two main emerging macro trends are Beautypure and Adorabold, representing two distinct yet complementary aesthetic universes. Beautypure stands out for its celebration of essentiality, targeting a young and sophisticated audience. This trend focuses on timeless accessories where simplicity and formal purity take center stage. Dominant colors such as white, black, and primary color blocks, along with minimalist forms, highlight an elegance devoid of excess. Beautypure expresses the concept that “less is more,” emphasizing the beauty of subtraction and the power of clean and refined design. On the other hand, Adorabold explores a more daring and playful dimension, merging strength and lightness to create an unexpected blend. This trend is dedicated to “contemporary princesses,” rebellious and independent women who do not renounce intrinsic grace. Vivid colors and meticulous details characterize Adorabold celebrating life, playfulness, and the rediscovery of past techniques and aesthetics, but reinterpreted with a modern twist. It speaks to street style, art and experimentation, forging a captivating bridge between past and future.”
Amlè
Andrea Marazzini
Palladino jewels
Vidda Jewelry
Amidst profound transformations in the fashion world driven by digitalization and sustainability, this year’s fairs expanded their business-focused agenda. Alongside discussions on production methods, artistic skills, and value chains, they significantly emphasised education and career opportunities for new generations. Acting as a bridge between academia and industry, these events inspired young individuals to engage directly with the business community. Highlighting the importance of this initiative was the participation of Giuseppe Valditara, Minister of Education and Merit, who underscored the value of investing in youth and emerging professions within the manufacturing sector. His presence celebrated tangible contributions and real-world impact.
Therefore, don’t miss the next edition of Milano Fashion & Jewels, taking place from February 22nd to 25th, 2025!
Article edited by Laura Astrologo Porché
Instagram @journaldesbijoux
