Firenze The School of Fashion & Art

Istituto Marangoni Firenze further enriches the Innovative Accessories Challenge with the entry of Tod’s Group as Special Partner of the initiative, confirming the high profile of the project and its strong connection with the excellence of Made in Italy. 

On the occasion of this important collaboration, the application deadline has been extended to May 1st, 2026, offering young designers under 30 an additional opportunity to apply and present their creative vision in the field of contemporary accessories. 

The Challenge 

The Innovative Accessories Challenge, created in collaboration with Sara Sozzani Maino, invites participants to explore new expressive possibilities in accessories design, placing experimentation, material research, responsible innovation, and the dialogue between craftsmanship and new production techniques at its core. 

The objective is to move beyond the traditional concept of the accessory, interpreting it instead as an expressive medium, a wearable sculpture, or a functional object capable of interacting with both the body and its surrounding environment. 

Tod’s Group: artisanal excellence and contemporary vision

The Tod’s Group represents one of the highest expressions of Italian luxury on an international level. Long synonymous with craftsmanship, quality, and savoir‑faire, Tod’s Spa combines manufacturing tradition with a contemporary vision, creating iconic footwear and accessories that embody the excellence of Made in Italy. 

“Supporting the next generation of designers means investing in the future: innovation and craftsmanship are pillars of our DNA. This is why we chose to take part in the Innovative Accessories Challenge.” 
Carlo Alberto Beretta 
General Manager Brand Tod’s  

Challenge Awards and TOD’S Group Special Mention 

The original awards of the Innovative Accessories Challenge remain unchanged: 

• the winning project will receive a full scholarship for the Master in Luxury Accessories Design Management at Istituto Marangoni Firenze; 

• the production and prototyping of the selected project, which may be showcased during the celebrations of the 10th anniversary of Istituto Marangoni Firenze. 

The two awards may also be assigned to different candidates, at the discretion of the jury. 

In addition, the following TOD’S Group Special Mention is introduced: 

• a 50% scholarship for the Master in Luxury Accessories Design Management at Istituto Marangoni Firenze for the 2026/2027 academic year 

• the opportunity to undertake a curricular internship at Tod’s Spa 

Jury and Applications 

Projects will be evaluated by a high‑profile international jury composed of leading professionals and key figures from the fashion and accessories industry, including Paul Andrew, Giuliano Calza, Edward Buchanan, Nicolò Beretta, Anna Dello Russo, Sabrina Scarpellini, and, of course, Sara Sozzani Maino. 

With Tod’s S.p.A. joining as Special Partner, the jury is further  expanded with Carolina Pelizza, Tod’s Leather Goods Designer, strengthening the dialogue between education, creativity, and the luxury industry.

To apply, candidates are required to submit: 

• project concept 

• curriculum vitae and motivation letter 

• portfolio of previous work 

All information and the application procedure are available on the dedicated landing page: Innovative Accessories Challenge

Deadline: May 1st, 2026