Milan celebrates the Made in Italy tradition with co-LAB 18

On December 4 and 5, 2024, the Officine del Volo in Milan hosted co-LAB 18, an event dedicated to the craftsmanship of Italian artisanship applied to the world of fashion. The initiative, organized by Holding Moda (HModa), brought together the 18 companies of the Group, each with its own specialization, to showcase their know-how through a selection of garments specifically designed for the occasion. The goal was to highlight the research and craftsmanship that distinguish each company, offering a vision of Made in Italy far from stereotypes and focused on the tangible value of artisanal work. This was not just a simple “showcase”: HModa sought to establish a direct dialogue with clients, revealing the behind-the-scenes processes of production. By emphasizing materials, techniques, and production processes, co-LAB 18 highlighted the importance of artisanal work as a cornerstone of fashion, capable of seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. The goal was clear: not to celebrate, but to demonstrate how every garment can become a living document of the Italian manufacturing culture. Since 2020, HModa has also been engaged in training through the HModa Academy, with the aim of passing on skills and sensitivity tied to Made in Italy to future generations. The Milan edition of co-LAB 18 followed its debut in Paris, where co-LAB 16 (in March) and an initial version of co-LAB 18 (in October) had already garnered significant attention in the industry. Milan, the Italian fashion capital, proved to be the perfect context for presenting the event, once again emphasizing the value of a dialogue between companies, clients, and production processes.

Making the event unique was the short film STELLE, directed by Roman filmmaker Chiara Sabatini. The film focused on the work of artisans, portraying their passion through hands, faces, and daily gestures. More than a celebration, the short film was an authentic narrative, giving a voice to those professionals who transform ideas into tangible creations. The director referred to these artisans as “unknown stars,” underscoring the human value each one brings to their craft. The aim was not to idealize them, but to highlight their central role in creating garments that are not mere products but intertwining stories of creativity and craftsmanship. Claudio Rovere, founder and president of HModa, reiterated the importance of the project in enhancing Made in Italy and preserving a unique artisanal heritage. Simona Finelli, co-founder of Rilievi Group and director of the co-LAB project, emphasized how the event was conceived as an open space for creativity and sharing, capable of telling fashion stories through a blend of skills and visions. co-LAB 18 thus established itself as an event that went beyond the spotlight of traditional fashion, restoring dignity and centrality to artisanal work. It was an opportunity to reflect on the value of Italian manufacturing, not as a slogan but as the backbone of an ever-evolving industry.