MILAN FASHION WEEK 2024 is gearing up to be one of the most anticipated events in the fashion world this year, running from September 17 to 23. Italy’s fashion chamber, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (CNMI), has released the final schedule, which includes 57 physical runway shows, eight digital presentations, and 69 in-person showcases. This year’s edition not only features top designers but also introduces an extra day to accommodate the growing number of events and fashion presentations.
Milan Fashion Week 2024: The Extra Day and What It Means. Chairman Carlo Capasa highlighted the importance of the additional day, making September 17 as a fully programmed day for Milan Fashion Week. Historically, the first day was reserved for institutional events, but this year major fashion houses like Fendi are kicking off the event earlier, with their show scheduled for 3 p.m. CET.
Capasa noted that adding an extra day was no easy feat due to Miland Fashion Week’s placement between London and Paris Fashion Weeks. “It’s an important step…we need to find some space”, said Capasa, emphasizing how Milan has the most crowded fashion calendar. While Capasa is “averagely satisfied” with this achievement, Giorgio Armani’s absence from the final Sunday is a notable change. Armani will present his spring 2025 collection in New York on October 17, meaning the usual grand finale in Milan will be missed.
Fashion Week Highlights: Iconic Designers and Formats. Milan Fashion Week 2024 promises a rich mix of traditional runway shows and exclusive presentations. Some of the top highlights include:
· Tom Ford will host a showroom presentation on September 19, following the exit of Peter Hawkings as creative director.
· Ports 1961 will unveil its first collection by Francesco Bertolini via a presentation on September 21.
· Fiorucci will debut its first runway show under new ownership and creative direction by Francesca Murri, in conjunction with a Triennale Milano museum exhibition.
Numerous brands, including Brioni, MSGM, and Taller Marmo, are opting for presentations instead of runway shows. Giada, Maccapani, and emerging designers like Retori and Cuantico will also showcase their latest collections through similar formats. The week will also see collaborations such as Weekend Max Mara pairing with “Emily in Paris” actress Ashley Park and a tie-up between Max & Co. and celebrity stylist Lorenzo Posocco.
Celebrating Milestone at Milan Fashion Week 2024. Several key anniversaries will be celebrated at Milan Fashion Week, adding a festive tone to the event:
· Iceberg will commemorate its 50th anniversary with a coed show and a party on September 17.
· Laura Biagiotti will return to the runway to celebrate 50 years since her first show on September 21.
· Redemption will mark its 10th anniversary with a special show on September 17.
In addition, Vogue Italia will celebrate its 60th anniversary with an exhibition at Palazzo Citterio, running from September 19 to 21, highlighting the magazine’s immense influence on the fashion world.
Economic Projections: A Sobering Outlook for the Fashion Industry. Amidst the excitement of Milan Fashion Week 2024, economic data revealed a slowdown in Italian fashion industry sales. 2024 fashion sales are expected to decrease by 3.5 percent to 96.7 billion euros, following a 6.1 percent contraction in the first half of the year. Capasa attributed this decline to geopolitical instability and week domestic demand, while noting that after the post-COVID boom, a slower pace was anticipated.
However, exports remain a bright spot for the industry. Fashion exports in 2023 grew by 2.9 percent, totaling 88.8 billion euros, and are projected to increase by 5.5. percent in 2024. The jewelry, eyewear, and cosmetics sectors are particularly strong, with jewelry exports alone spiking by an impressive 58 percent.
Milan Fashion Week 2024 is set to be a dynamic showcase of Italian fashion, celebrating not only collections but also the heritage of some of the industry’s most iconic brands. Despite economic challenges, the week will reflect the resilience and creativity of Italian fashion, offering a platform for both established designers and emerging talents.
With an expanded schedule, exciting collaborations, and milestone celebrations, Milan Fashion Week remains a key event on the international fashion calendar.
Comments