Manolo Blahnik and Donatella Versace are just two of the latest stellar names to be added to the line-up for the International Herald Tribune (IHT) Luxury Conference in Rome whic started todayand ends tomorrow. It opened with a keynote address from legendary designer Jean Paul Gaultier. Curated by IHT Fashion Editor, Suzy Menkes, the conference also welcomed Frida Giannini (Creative Director, Gucci), Omoyemi Akerele (Creative director, Stylehousefiles), socially responsible bag designer Lauren Bush Lauren, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri (Creative Directors, Valentino), and Simone Cipriani (head of the Ethical Fashion Initiative of The International Trade Centre). They will all discuss the power of the Mediterranean area and the promise of Africa as both a creative source and a new consumer of luxury.
Suzy Menkes said: “Diversity is the essence of the IHT series of luxury conferences. This year that word has a special meaning, for speakers will look at the increasing input on the catwalk and in craftsmanship of countries from Morocco to South Africa. Italy, with its creative and manufacturing force will be key to a seminar with true global reach. It will look at the influence of China in Africa and at the power of a growing middle class along the Mediterranean basin – and beyond.’’
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Tags: Donatella Versace, Frida Giannini, Manolo Blahnik, Maria Grazia Chiuri, Omoyemi Akerele, Pierpaolo Piccioli, Simone Cipriani
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