Among more than 630 applications from 65 countries, 24 talents were selected for the final, including student Matilde Gori and alumna Giulia Lin, both from Istituto Marangoni Firenze.

Standing out among the finalists was Matilde Gori, who won the Prato Circular & Sustainability Award, a recognition promoted by Confindustria Toscana Nord and dedicated to the themes of sustainability and circularity in fashion.

Her collection stems from a research process that combines knitwear, material experimentation, and Prato’s textile heritage. At the heart of the project is a reference to the cenciaioli of Prato, the historical figures of the district who specialised in sorting discarded garments and textile scraps destined to be recovered and reintroduced into the production cycle. A tradition that has helped shape a culture deeply rooted in textile regeneration.

Through this reference, Matilde Gori brings a territory-based heritage into the present, interpreting it through her own design language and knitwear research. Her creative journey is characterised by a particular interest in knitwear and in the expressive possibilities of yarns and materials.

Winning the Prato Circular & Sustainability Award marks an important milestone for Matilde Gori and represents another international recognition for the emerging talent of Istituto Marangoni Firenze.