Philippine fashion finds a global platform with an Italian institution

How Fondazione Sozzani’s support for FASHIONPhilippines in Milan helps the program champion Filipino designers more effectively

By September Grace Mahino

Since its establishment in 2016 by editor, gallerist, and businesswoman Carla Sozzani, Fondazione Sozzani has been a prominent proponent of culture, particularly through its promotion of photography, fashion, and both the fine and applied arts. Its assumption of the patronage of Galleria Carla Sozzani further strengthens its position, with the Foundation continuing the public functions that the Galleria has supported since its founding by its namesake in 1990. 

This commitment transcends geographical borders, as the Foundation adheres to the values of culture, heritage, education, and responsibility. Responsibility, especially, entails advocating for circular fashion and environmental sustainability, as well as providing a platform for rising designers from across the globe. 

That is why Fondazione Sozzani has been the ideal partner for a groundbreaking program such as FASHIONPhilippines in Milan. Now in its second year, the business development and exhibition program for Filipino fashion brands, organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), will cap off its 2026 edition with a fashion showcase in Milan on Sept. 24. To be held once again at the Foundation in time for Milan Fashion Week, the culmination follows last year’s historic presentation that marked the Philippines’ first time holding a solo exhibit at the fashion capital. 

The inaugural edition of FASHIONPhilippines in Milan last year found a European homebase in Fondazione Sozzani.

Fondazione Sozzani’s participation in the program goes beyond providing a premium venue for Filipino fashion designers looking to go global. As the head of FASHIONPhilippines in Milan’s cohort of experts, the Foundation’s Creative Director, Sara Maino, works closely with the program organizers and other partners every step of the way, from the designer selection to the development of the mentoring sessions that will prepare the participating designers for the highly competitive European fashion market. 

Days before the current batch of designers flew to Milan, Maino, along with the FASHIONPhilippines team, Tetta Ortiz of LIT Fashion Consultancy, and Jackie Aquino of the Philippine Fashion Coalition, held an online meeting with them to dispense last-minute tips, advice, and reminders. With the designers a mix of program returnees and first-timers, as well as established and rising names, Maino underscored how they have all met the program’s requirements and are thus worthy of the opportunity. “You are here because we find you talented—that you have the design know-how that must be seen,” she told the designers. “And so I suggest that you don’t be afraid to ask your mentors. There are no stupid questions.”

Fondazione Sozzani’s Creative Director Sara Maino also leads the panel of fashion industry experts who mentor the FASHIONPhilippines in Milan designers for both of the program’s editions.

Maino also reminded them that their origins are part of what will make them stand out in the global scene. “You come from the Philippines, which has a rich cultural heritage—that is one of the weapons you can use,” she said. “Your respective brands’ identity always comes from your past—your traditions and experiences—so you shouldn’t only think about satisfying the international market. You must also develop a collection that has meaning and vision.

“Be clear about whom you want to get to,” Maino continued. “The reality is you cannot get to everyone, so don’t force yourself to be everything to everyone.”

It’s sound advice that every Filipino designer needs to hear—in fact, every Filipino creative looking to make their mark in the international scene. With FASHIONPhilippines in Milan already yielding promising results, such as a Filipino brand gaining representation at a European showroom, the country’s design and manufacturing industries have the green light to continue using local culture and identity to propel their international expansion.

*****

The countdown begins to the culminating presentation of FASHIONPhilippines in Milan 2026. Learn more about the program here.

FASHIONPhilippines is the country’s banner program for marketing local fashion enterprises internationally. With CITEM at the helm, the program has brought local brands to top international trade shows and exhibitions in Paris, New York, Las Vegas, Singapore, and Hong Kong. FASHIONPhilippines Milan is in collaboration with the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) and the Philippine Consulate General in Milan. It is implemented with the support of the Philippine Fashion Coalition (PFC), Fondazione Sozzani, and LIT Fashion Consultancy.

Going to Milan this September? Register your visit to the Philippine showcase in Milan here.