The next generation of accessory design gathered in Florence. With the second edition of Behind the Shoes, Istituto Marangoni Firenze renewed its collaboration with Leather & Luxury—the leading magazine for the Made in Italy supply chain—offering students an educational journey in direct contact with the finest craftsmanship and industry expertise. 

Design meets Industry 

The project challenged the students of the Master in Luxury Accessories Design & Management to merge creativity, stylistic research and industrial feasibility. Each student was asked to develop a capsule collection of women’s shoes—pumps, boots or sneakers—for their own personal brand, guided by the theme Artisanal Intelligence, proposed by Leather & Luxury: an invitation to explore the dialogue between traditional craftsmanship and technological innovation. All collections were inspired by one of four FW25/26 trends, taking into consideration key aspects such as material sourcing, sustainable processes, production feasibility and aesthetic coherence. 

A Network of Production Excellence 

A unique opportunity turned creative ideas into tangible prototypes. Thanks to the collaboration with some of the most prominent companies in the Tuscan footwear district, the students’ projects were physically produced—a rare chance to follow every stage of the supply chain and understand its complexity, precision, and human value. 

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From concept to prototype, each student worked closely with companies such as David Leather Expressions, Ramponi, Rino Mastrotto, Lampo, Labam, Simonetta Rossi, Monti, Italsform, Nastrotex Cufra, Taurini, BC Servizi, and others—immersing themselves in the entire development process. A true exercise in creative and technical awareness that strengthened the connection between school and industry, between talent and territory. 

A Dialogue with the Design World 

As part of the experience, students had the opportunity to meet Felipe Fiallo—Istituto Marangoni alumnus and visionary designer known for his radical and sustainable approach to footwear design. Fiallo shared insights, experiences and bold perspectives on contemporary design and industry collaboration. The project concluded with a final presentation event, where a panel of experts—including Barbara Borghini, founder and creative director of Gia Borghini, Matteo Caparrini, CEO Founder @matteo_1to1 e Giulia Tanini, Head shoes designer Moonray, and Ashi Studio, —evaluated the prototypes based on creativity, innovation and execution. The winning project, Visceral Nature by Chiara Guastella, reimagined feminine elegance through organic shapes and visceral simplicity. 

Shaping the Talent's of Tomorrow 

Behind the Shoes is more than an academic project: it is where ideas meet reality, and design walks hand in hand with production. A precious opportunity for young creatives to experiment, express themselves, and build—step by step—their own vision for the future.  

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Behind The Shoes