In the beating heart of Milan, the GX Fashion Week has found its ideal home in the evocative Cloisters of San Barnaba, an architectural jewel that blends centuries of history with the cutting edge of contemporary fashion. This ancient convent, whose origins date back to the 15th century, offered a breathtaking backdrop for one of the most anticipated events of the Milan fashion week on 18 September 2024. The Renaissance arches and internal gardens of rare beauty created a unique atmosphere, where the past and the future have intertwined in a harmonious embrace. This place, once a refuge of contemplation for Barnabite monks, has transformed into an exceptional stage for the latest international fashion trends. The event, now considered an essential pillar in the Milanese fashion calendar, once again saw the star of Gentiana Dervishi shine, president of the APS Showteam Association who, with her innovative vision and impeccable taste, has once again raised the GX Fashion Week reaches heights of excellence higher than those of the past, already wonderful and appreciated in all the world's corridors of glamour. His organizational mastery was evident in every aspect of the event, from the meticulous selection of designers from every corner of the globe, to the choice of models who embody diversity and beauty in all its nuances. His obsessive attention to detail transformed each show into a living work of art, where every step on the catwalk told a story of passion, creativity and innovation. The designers present at the event represented the elite of craftsmanship. The creations were a riot of traditional techniques merged with the most advanced technological innovations in the textile field.
Each dress presented was the result of an obsessive search for perfection, where the choice of materials was combined with cutting-edge technologies to give life to garments that redefine the very concept of high fashion. Celebration of excellence aimed at a meeting point between the art of fashion and its corresponding pinnacle. In a world where the ephemeral often reigns supreme, this event has stood as a beacon of quality and vision, attracting the attention of industry experts, celebrities, professionals, influencers, journalists, bloggers, buyers and fashion enthusiasts from all over the world. In the enchanting setting of the Cloisters of San Barnaba, the magic of fashion has merged with centuries of history, creating a unique sensorial experience, thus confirming itself not only as one of the most anticipated fashion events, but as a true cultural phenomenon , capable of inspiring, exciting and redefining the boundaries of the possible. “The GX Fashion Week Milan 2024 represents the quintessence of what I have always dreamed of for the world of fashion: a perfect combination of historical heritage and contemporary innovation. Choosing the Cloisters of San Barnaba as a location was not just an aesthetic act, but a cultural manifesto. We wanted to create a dialogue between the centuries, where the Renaissance arches could frame the most avant-garde creations of our times” declares Gentiana Dervishi, organizer and President of APS Showteam “our mission has always been to transcend the traditional boundaries of fashion. Every designer selected, every model chosen, every detail taken care of was designed to tell a story of global excellence.
GX Fashion Week isn't just a show, it's an immersive experience that celebrates diversity, craftsmanship and innovation. I am deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this event an unprecedented success. From the designers who brought their unique visions, to the models who brought them to life, to our tireless organizational team. Together, we have demonstrated that fashion is much more than just clothes: it is art, it is culture, it is the highest expression of human creativity. Looking to the future, my promise is to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of fashion. GX Fashion Week Milan will continue to be a beacon of innovation, a meeting point for visionaries and a stage for the boldest ideas. Because I firmly believe that true fashion does not follow trends, but creates them, inspiring generations and defining eras." This powerful statement not only summarizes the success of the event, but also underlines the concepts of "philosophy and vision" that underlie , promising an even brighter future for this unmissable event in the international fashion contest, where eco-friendly has represented one of the fundamental basic principles, including the reference paradigm of ecology in the sectors that make up the fashion industry. The stylists who contributed their talent and creativity are: Themistokli Mili, whose Nicol Sposa brand represents an icon in the world of bridal high fashion, where elegance meets passion. Since 2015, the maison has been transforming dreams into reality with luxury wedding dresses, entirely handmade, enhancing the beauty and uniqueness of every woman. Each creation is a celebration of love and beauty, with a design designed to make every bride a queen on the most important day of her life. But Nicol Sposa is not just synonymous with wedding dresses.
Alongside the bridal collections, evening dresses are also offered, in which sumptuousness and refinement are merged in perfect harmony. The collections, recognized and celebrated internationally, reflect timeless elegance and refined craftsmanship, bringing the magic of Nicol Bridal into the hearts of fashion enthusiasts around the world. Among the talents who have contributed to defining the prestige of the maison, there are world-famous stylists, each with a unique vision and touch, who enrich each collection with innovation and mastery. These creators have shaped the identity of Nicol Sposa, making the maison a point of reference in the bridal couture panorama. Topmodel TV Collective Austria for the first time at the renowned GX Fashion Week Milan, marking a new chapter for Austrian fashion. Led by Dominik Wachta, supported by partners Zoran Kalabic and beauty salon Adriana Lushezy, the collective stands out for its innovative vision. Wachta, famous for having founded the "Österreichs Nächstes Topmodel" competition and for his contribution to the international placement of models, brings his vast experience to this world-class event. A stellar cast of international models, Elsa Kullegard (Sweden), Jessica Arias-Gonzalez (Spain), Darya Fesina (Belarus), Adriana Lopes (Portugal) and together with them, Austrian talents such as Laura-Sophie Lang, Qendresa Bulliqi, Caroline shine Fiedler and other prominent models.
The fashion show culminated with a collective performance showcasing the creations of five renowned Austrian designers. Julia Lara König, founder of her company in 2014, is recognized for her innovative vision and commitment to creating bespoke wedding dresses. She has obtained several “Wedding Awards Austria” as best wedding dress designer, in 2016, 2018 and 2023, as well as the prestigious “Haute Couture Award Austria” in 2021 for a dress with 3D printed elements. Her distinctive style combines fluid materials, lace and unusual fabrics, always with the aim of expressing the unique personality of those who wear her creations. Christa Franz is considered one of Austria's top designers, with a career spanning over 10 years in high-quality lingerie design, with collections sold throughout Europe and New York. Her evening and wedding dresses are refined, sexy and timeless, with particular attention to the selection of innovative materials, such as wood fibers, and sustainability. Each creation is handcrafted, reflecting sophisticated craftsmanship that enhances the individuality of the wearer.
Gayane Yeghiazaryan, Gaya Couture brand, fuses art and nature in her creations. Inspired by the Greek goddess Gaia, Gayane offers clothes that celebrate natural beauty, using rich fabrics and sustainable practices. Its collections represent timeless elegance, inviting those who wear them to express their individuality and rediscover the connection between fashion and nature. Emanuel Nikolaus Burger is one of the youngest talents in the world of high fashion. he began his career at just 13 years old, organizing his first fashion show. Today, his brand competes with major fashion capitals such as Paris and Milan. Burger is known for combining modern femininity and masculine simplicity, with a style that encourages free interpretation of his creations.
Its social commitment is equally evident, with charitable collaborations that link fashion and humanitarian causes. Manuel Essl, founder of Manuel Essl Design in 2015, is an innovator who fuses high fashion and streetwear. Its collections feature vibrant prints, rich fabrics and a strong commitment to sustainability. It presented its eleventh collection, "Floral Elixir", celebrating the elegance of nature and confirming its status as one of the most internationally influential Austrian fashion brands. The creations of the Albania Design Academy, a professional school that has been training talented designers for 17 years, paraded from the Balkans. Among its teachers stand out Ardi Asllani, who teaches design, and Elsida Pepa, specialized in model making.
The academy also offers complementary courses, such as merchandising and computer-aided modeling. In addition to providing a solid education, the school supports its students even after graduation, offering internships and assistance in creating personal brands. Many of his former students are today successful figures in the fashion industry in Albania. Every year, the Albania Design Academy organizes a fashion show, where each student has the opportunity to create and present their own collection. Aurela Kalemi, a twenty-nine-year-old designer from Durazzo, whose journey in the world of fashion began at the renowned "Fashion Designing Academy" in Tirana, known for the excellence of its teaching staff and the success of its students. He had the honor of studying with professor Ardi Asllani, whose experience and passion profoundly enriched his education. During his career he worked as a stylist and manager for an African fashion brand in Tirana, acquiring both artistic and management skills. Furthermore, he co-managed a traditional clothing shop in Durres, taking care of both in-store operations and the management of social profiles.
Thanks to this role, traditional clothes were worn at important events. The stylist collaborates in the creation of music videos. Today she dedicates herself completely to the Aura brand of which she is the founder. Each creation represents a tribute to the beauty, culture and art of fashion. Enada Mahmutaj, a twenty-one year old from Tirana, loved drawing and creating clothes for her dolls since she was a child. As the years passed, she understood more and more clearly that becoming a stylist was her dream, so she decided to undertake studies at the Albania Design Academy, under the guidance of Professor Ardi Asllani and designer Elsida Pepa, becoming one of the most eclectic and creative people who know how to choose the correct vision to create highly sought-after design philosophies in the fashion scene. Besjana Hoxha, a twenty-year-old originally from a small town, Bulqiza, moves to Tirana to attend university. Her passion for fashion began as a child and for this reason she chose to study Design at the Albania Design Academy. Recently graduated, she turns her dream into reality. At a very young age, she acquired skills in model design and the creation of one-of-a-kind models, appreciated wherever they are offered.
An important promise in the future vision of gamour. Aslama Galicaj goes by the name Asli and is 23 years old. Originally from Kavaje, a small coastal town in Albania, a great art lover, she finished her university studies in Tirana. During this journey he developed a growing interest in moving from the creation of static forms to dynamic and fluid ones, exploring soft textures and techniques. This is how he fell in love with the world of fashion design, a field that he continues to explore with growing enthusiasm which amazed all the VIPs present in the audience. Rexhina Kurti clears the catwalk with a collection made up of six items, in which art and sport blend in a harmonious balance. The clothing is conceived as a moving painting, moving through chaos to find serenity. The inspiration comes from the art of Van Gogh, which meets the resistance of the denim fabric, while the color palette mixes delicately with the three-dimensional tulle, creating a mobility that reflects the sensitivity of the painting. The energy of Van Gogh's brush strokes comes to life through the play of tulle on the fabric, balancing the chaos with the softness of the curls that harmoniously convey the message of peace.
In this collection, passion and the fruit of hard work are revealed, bringing art into dialogue with sport. Ermelinda Metohu, a stylist with a degree in economics, has always been passionate about Fashion Design. Graduated from the Albania Design Academy, she finds the common thread that realizes her creative vision. 'The Kiss', the name of the collection he presented, inspired by Klimt's painting of the same name. It was born at a time when the inner strength wanted to create something that praised life. Among the Italian stylists, Angela Maria Sotgia stands out, founder of the Angela's Bags brand, a master craftsman who boasts over 16 years of experience in the high-end leather goods sector. An extraordinarily talented self-taught woman, she has developed a deep bond with the world of women's accessories, gained thanks to a long career in the luxury clothing trade. What distinguishes Angela is not only her exceptional technical ability, but also her innate passion for detail, fueled by a family tradition that has its roots in three generations of tailors. This sartorial heritage has allowed her to acquire a unique approach to creation, which blends ancient knowledge and sensitivity contemporary art.
His creations come to life thanks to an iconic instrument: the Singer 29k71, a vintage arm machine from the early 1900s, symbol of his categorical rejection of modern industrial machinery. Every seam, every detail is made manually, with almost obsessive care, which makes each bag not just an accessory, but a unique and unrepeatable piece. Angela proudly embraces a philosophy inspired by traditionalism, a cultural movement that celebrates tradition and the value of time as an essential element in the creation of beauty. Its products are not simple bags: they embody a return to the artisanal values ??of the past, combining functionality and art in a perfect union. Each bag tells a story, reflecting the soul of those who created it and making tangible the idea that fashion can be, at the same time, memory and innovation. Angela's Bags does not just create accessories, but authentic works of art, steeped in history, emotions and dedication, destined to last over time as symbols of artisan excellence.
Whoever wears one of his creations brings with them not only a piece of high fashion, but an artistic vision that celebrates the past while looking to the future. HIPPY SAMURAI is a Japanese fashion brand that stands out for its extraordinary ability to blend tradition and innovation, creating a unique visual narrative through the use of color combinations that have their roots in the centuries-old Japanese art of silk. The beating heart of this refined aesthetic is Kenichi Nakano, seventh generation of the prestigious silk production house "Kinuya", a historical institution active for over 250 years. Nakano's contribution to the creations of HIPPY SAMURAI goes far beyond the choice of colors: his artistic works are based on intricate reticular geometries that embody the very essence of "silk", a symbol of elegance and continuity, while the thin colored dots that dotting his drawings represent "particles of light", evoking a profound concept of hope and rebirth. Every lattice and every particle is the visual expression of a philosophy that sees the balance between the universe, humanity, order and nature as the key to understanding the intrinsic beauty of life. The overall design of Hippy Samurai is directed by the enigmatic SINH, who is not only a visionary designer, but a leading figure in the world of stage performance modeling in Japan.
He brings with him vast experience, gained both in the fashion sector and in the world of cinema, having starred in the famous Hollywood film "The Last Samurai" (2003). Her stage experience gives the collections an incredible theatricality, where each garment is not just a dress, but a part of an artistic performance that challenges conventions and transforms the catwalk into a real narrative stage. The fashion show marked a new chapter in the history of the brand. At the center of the scene was the fusion between Japanese tradition and the cultures of other parts of the world, an artistic and cultural exploration that aimed to create a dialogue between past and present, East and West. To make this parade even more iconic, the participation of Kunie Takatsu, eminent representative of the Japan Noh Drama Association, the oldest Japanese foundation dedicated to traditional performing arts. Noh, a theatrical art that stands out for its profound spirituality and symbolism, has intertwined with fashion creating a unique experience in which clothes and performances will merge to give life to an emotional and multi-sensory story, elevating the concept itself of clothing to an art form that explores the connection between culture, identity and universal beauty.
Each piece tells a story, each collection is a journey that crosses the boundaries of time and space, keeping the spirit of Japanese tradition alive while embracing global innovation. The brand thus positions itself as a bridge between seemingly distant worlds, demonstrating that fashion can be as much a celebration of roots as it is an expression of the future. Umberto Michele Perrera is a stylist who dedicates a life to fashion, where for decades he has been very successful and appreciated throughout the world. His sartorial works have received success and acclaim. He took part in the Sanremo Fashion Festival in 1968. In 1971 he received an invitation to join the "Accademia dei Sartori di Roma", a reality founded in the 18th century. From 1974 onwards it confirmed itself as a staple for the annual fashion shows held at the Teatro Regio in Turin. It has also been making women's clothes for 50 years. The 80s and 90s were a source of sartorial research for him, the recognition of which identified him among the promoters of the new and sophisticated innovative technologies that he began to popularize from 2000 onwards. From here he wrote and designed a publication called "Treatise for Tailors", a masterpiece that went viral all over the world, whose techniques
modest sartorial designs are appreciated in the most influential salons in the sector. The Cav. Perrera specializes in the design, creation and packaging of top-level clothing for both men and women. In 1970 he placed second in the then very renowned "Golden Scissors" competition, receiving the prize called "Il Centimetro d'Oro". He is part of the association organizing the event and his precious advice makes solid quality shine through. He has participated in all the GX Fashion Weeks of the last 5 years. The dresses by Rima Blanca are excellent, a Romanian luxury brand founded by Romina Bianca Sociu, who brings with her over 11 years of experience in the wedding dress and exclusive fashion sector. The brand represents an innovative vision of timeless elegance, aimed at creating unique garments that evoke emotions and offer each customer an unforgettable experience. Rima Blanca's philosophy is based on a commitment to excellence, highlighted by the choice of fine materials and the harmonious fusion of local traditions with advanced tailoring techniques. Each creation is a work of art, characterized by impeccable craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
The brand explores new stylistic horizons through innovative cuts, refined textures and the use of recyclable materials, adopting a sustainable approach. Each garment celebrates individuality and tells a unique story, perfectly tailored to the wearer. Rima Blanca does not just make clothes, but offers luxury experiences that transcend current fashions, rooted in a timeless aesthetic, to express femininity and sophistication in a refined way. An international team of exceptional make-up artists has given a soul to the aesthetic visions conceived and orchestrated by Gentiana Dervishi. These virtuosos of the brush and comb, hailing from every corner of the globe, transformed the backstage into a melting pot of cosmetic creativity, shaping avant-garde looks that complemented the designers' creations on the catwalk. Under the masterful guidance of the President of APS Showteam, these beauty artisans have created true ephemeral works of art, fusing traditional techniques with innovative approaches to enhance beauty in all its nuances.
Makeup and hairstyle became integral elements of the show, telling stories of elegance and audacity through every stroke of eyeliner and every expertly shaped lock. Walking the catwalks, a cosmopolitan cast of mannequins and top models brought the collections to life. These ambassadors of beauty, selected for their versatility and charisma, represented a kaleidoscope of ethnicities and styles. The diversity of this ensemble of elite wearers perfectly reflected the inclusive and global spirit of GX Fashion Week Milan. Every step on the runway was a celebration of universal beauty, transcending boundaries and stereotypes. These catwalk professionals, true fashion chameleons, were transformed under the expert hands of make-up artists and hairstylists, perfectly embodying the stylists' visions and capturing the essence of each creation, all directed by coordinators Arta Kola and Alex Radulescu, with the notable presence of the very famous Sachie Kishihara and also Ledi Dupi, Sonia Manfra, Cadar Diana Maroussia, Misha Ela, Cristina Popa, Alexandra Ioana Sumas and Roberta Secchi's team made up of three students, Valeria, Matteo, Lucrezia. Alessia Xhafa in the role of coordination director. The blogger, communicator, radio speaker and podcaster Alessio Marrari presented the catwalks.
