Every year at Milan Fashion Week, the Fashion Hub exhibition is a must-visit event that brings together emerging designers and heritage brands driven by a passion for sustainable innovation. Organized by Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (CNMI)as part of the “Designers for the Planet” initiative, this exhibition is a powerful celebration of creativity, commitment, and environmental responsibility. It’s a place where every collection tells a story, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a more thoughtful and conscious fashion world.
This exhibition never disappoints; instead, it continuously surprises me with fresh perspectives, innovative designs, and an unshakable dedication to sustainability and inclusion. It fills me with immense pride to see passionate designers pushing the boundaries of ethical fashion.
The excitement in the air at the Fashion Hub is palpable. It’s a space where the next generation of designers is forging their path, focusing on environmental responsibility and embracing the ever-evolving world of fashion. This year, I had the honor of witnessing the birth of new Italian brands, particularly those emerging from Sicily. These brands are not just a reflection of the future of fashion—they represent the hope of a more conscious and thoughtful industry. The level of passion and commitment to sustainability was inspiring.
Being a part of this year’s exhibition gave me the chance to witness firsthand the incredible creativity and dedication behind these brands. Lizzio, a new brand from Catania, Sicily, stood out in particular. Their collections, made from natural fabrics such as cotton wool and cotton, were a perfect blend of sustainable design and Sicilian heritage. The use of vibrant elements, like cassata siciliana stickers, paired with a modern pop-art style, brought the spirit of Sicily to life in a completely fresh way.
What I found especially captivating about Lizzio is how they bring new life to everyday fashion. Their casual wear is not only comfortable and functional, but it also has a certain charm and cuteness to it that immediately grabs your attention. It’s a brand that beautifully balances modern style with timeless cultural storytelling. Every piece is a testament to their dedication to promoting Sicilian culture while maintaining a sustainable approach to production.
This isn’t just the first step for Lizzio—it’s a milestone. Participating in the Fashion Hub exhibition is a huge accomplishment for any brand, and I’m excited to see how they will continue to grow and evolve in the fashion world. Their journey is one of passion, purpose, and a commitment to creating something truly meaningful. I’m fortunate to have witnessed their creations firsthand, and I’m eager to share their story with all of you.
This is more than just fashion—it’s a movement that honors the past while shaping a responsible future.
Another standout brand was Marea, founded by Giuseppe Della Monica. His vision transforms vintage sea-inspired menswear into chic, tailored pieces for women, blending a structured, sophisticated aesthetic with a sustainable approach. Marea is all about reinterpreting classic men’s garments into elegant, empowering fashion for women. His attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship were evident in every piece.
Giuseppe shared that his journey began two years ago, and now, standing at the Fashion Hub exhibition, he sees this moment as a major breakthrough. “Step by step, I am building my dream,” he told me, reflecting on how this showcase is a stepping stone toward something greater. His work embodies a passion for craftsmanship and innovation, proving that sustainability can coexist with high fashion.
Walking through the Fashion Hub, I felt inspired by the new wave of designers bringing fresh ideas and purpose-driven creativity to the industry. Brands like Lizzio and Marea are not just participating in fashion—they are reshaping it. With sustainability and cultural heritage at their core, these designers represent a future where fashion is meaningful, responsible, and deeply connected to its roots.
You can follow their journey and explore their collection on Instagram at @Lizzioofficial and @mareamareamare
Stay tuned for more exciting stories as I continue to explore the next generation of fashion talent!
