A Global Challenge for the Future of Accessories
An international competition at the school in Florence for young designers, exploring experimentation, sustainability, and new visions.
The Firenze school reaffirms its role as a Creative Laboratory of excellence with the launch of the Innovative Accessory Challenge, an initiative in collaboration with Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director of Fondazione Sozzani.
The Accessory is an autonomous expressive code, capable of conveying identity, values, and visions.
The future of the sector lies in digital experimentation, the search for sustainable materials, and the integration of technologies that redefine aesthetics and functionality.
It’s no longer just about creating beauty: designing accessories today means giving life to responsible objects.
The project was born with a clear goal: to rethink the contemporary Accessory through an innovative and responsible approach, where aesthetics and ethics meet.
The challenge is open to designers under 30 from all over the world, invited to interpret the Accessory as an expressive form, wearable sculpture, or functional device in dialogue with body and environment.
Applicants are asked to submit an original project in the form of a mini capsule collection of accessories, consisting of a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 proposals. Each proposal must be accompanied by a complete design development (including technical details, material selection, and concept).
“Tomorrow’s fashion requires creativity, skills, and responsibility. With this challenge, Istituto Marangoni Firenze offers young designers the opportunity to transform their talent into a concrete professional path, experimenting with innovative and sustainable solutions. We believe the future of fashion design and accessories depends on the conscious use of materials and the ability to combine aesthetics and ethics. Our goal is to train professionals ready to lead change.” — Lorenzo Tellini, School Director, Istituto Marangoni Firenze
On digital innovation, Sara Sozzani Maino added:
“The Innovative Accessory Challenge was created to offer new generations a space to freely express their creativity. The project aims to foster the meeting between craftsmanship and new technologies.” — Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director, Fondazione Sozzani
This project is not just a competition but a bridge to the future, offering the winner not only the opportunity to attend the Master’s in Luxury Accessories Design Management at the Florence school but also the production of their prototype.
AWARDS:
- Full scholarship for the Master’s in Luxury Accessories Design Management at Istituto Marangoni Firenze
- Production and prototyping of the selected project, which may be showcased during the 10th anniversary celebrations of Istituto Marangoni Firenze
N.B.: The two awards may also be assigned to different participants at the jury’s discretion.
JURY
The winner will be chosen by an international jury composed of leading figures and authoritative partners from the fashion world:
Paul Andrew – Creative Director of Sergio Rossi; Founder & Creative Director of Paul Andrew
Giuliano Calza – Founder & Creative Director of GCDS
Edward Buchanan – Creative Director and Cultural Advocate
Nicolò Beretta – Footwear Designer; Founder of Giannico
Niccolò Pasqualetti – Niccolò Pasqualetti Creative Director
Anna Dello Russo – Fashion Journalist
Sabrina Scarpellini – Co-Founder & Fashion Director, Massimo Bonini showroom
Sara Sozzani Maino – Creative Director @ Fondazione Sozzani
Supporting the first Edition of the Innovative Accessory Challenge are prominent industry partners, including:
- Manteco – Tuscan textile company internationally recognized for excellence in wool fabrics and its pioneering approach to sustainability.
- Leather & Luxury – Magazine dedicated to Italian leather goods and manufacturing excellence, focusing on materials, companies, and supply chains that define the uniqueness of Made in Italy.
- Tivoli Group – Florentine group with over 40 years of experience in developing and producing leather goods for the fashion and luxury sector, with strong attention to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
From application to the Award Ceremony, every phase of the Innovative Accessory Challenge follows a precise timeline to ensure a structured and engaging experience:
Applications open: January 14, 2026
Applications close: March 31, 2026 – 11:59 PM CEST
Finalists announced: by April 15, 2026
Jury presentation: May 14, 2026 – Fondazione Sozzani, Milan
The official presentation will take place during Pitti Uomo 2026, with a dedicated panel talk on circular innovation and an exclusive Event at Fondazione Sozzani in Milan.