Book Reveals Italian Origins of Fashion Shows

A new book, 'G.B. Giorgini and the Origins of Made in Italy,' chronicles the birth of the modern fashion show in Florence. Curated by Neri Fadigati, Giorgini's grandson, the 230-page coffee table book is published by Gruppo Editoriale in collaboration with Polimoda. It features archival photos, letters, invitations, and contributions from designer Roberto Capucci and Ferruccio Ferragamo. The first fashion show was held at Villa Torrigiani on February 12, 1951, with American buyers seeking an alternative to French style. Giorgini initially planned the show in New York but moved it to Florence after Altman department store declined. His role was so valued that former U.S. President Harry Truman visited him in Florence in 1955. The book was first presented on March 25, 2023 at the Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Altemps, with a panel moderated by Alessio de' Navasques featuring Fadigati, researcher Daniela Calanca, and professor Vittoria Caratozzolo.