Two rising talents selected by a jury of fashion specialists during “My Own Show,” a competition organized by the Istituto Europeo di Design (European Institute of Design) with the support of Aeffe and Valentino, will present their debut collections with an installation on Feb. 25 from 4 to 9 p.m., at 5 Via Bezzecca.
Maria Ruano
Age: 29
Education: IED Madrid
Producer: Aeffe
Fall inspiration: Inspired by the desire to capture what is truly necessary and fundamental, the Spanish designer created a collection of clean and wearable pieces. “The aim is to make the wearer feel protected from the outside and comfortable inside at the same time,” said Marìa Ruano. Unfussy and quasi-unisex silhouettes get an edgy treatment thanks to precious details and hand-sewn finishes for a minimal-yet-luxurious look.
Hot item: A Loden-Steiner wool kimono-sleeve jacket paired with shorts in the same fabric, both trimmed with grosgrain and lined in naturally hand-dyed silk.
Wish list: Not attracted to the idea of working for big names, Ruano has a clear plan for her future business: “I would like to start something small, that could grow slowly and safely through a sustainable process that can be constantly monitored.”
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Nicholas Iulitta
Age: 26
Education: IED Milan
Producer: Valentino Fashion Group
Fall inspiration: After writing a short essay titled “La Vergine di Norimberga” (“The Iron Maiden of Nuremberg”), which tells the story of a proud woman who discovers her weakness and fragility, Iulitta recounts her interior journey via ultraheavy leather and fur distressed by acid treatments.
Hot items: A hooded bomber in rust lamb leather and a red sleeveless fur cobbled with remnants of shaved fox.
Wish list: The half Italian-half Belgian dreams of an innovative experience with his favorite designer, Carol Christian Poell. “He is the top,” mused Iulitta. “He doesn’t design to sell, but rather for his love of fashion.”