Made in Italy Fashion: Crisis, History, and Future Prospects

The Italian fashion sector has transformed significantly since Giovanni Battista Giorgini held the inaugural collective fashion show on February 12, 1951, in Florence. Once a key player in the post-war economy, the industry now grapples with the impacts of globalization and fast fashion. According to Infocamere, more than 2,000 companies in apparel, textiles, and leather goods shut down in early 2024, with exports declining by 8.1%, resulting in a €836 million loss, as reported by Istat and Confindustria Accessori Moda. Carlo Capasa, president of the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, criticized a €250 million government fund announced in February 2025 as inadequate. However, investments from Prada and Bottega Veneta suggest a projected growth of 1.7% for 2026. The film "Brunello – Il visionario garbato," released on December 9, 2025, showcases Brunello Cucinelli's ethical capitalism approach. The future of Made in Italy relies on craftsmanship, innovation, and transparency.