The glamour of Milan was on full display during the fifth edition of Vogue World, held on September 22 in the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This year’s celebration of fashion and artistry showcased an impressive roster of celebrities, reflecting the magazine’s commitment to highlighting both fashion innovation and star power. The grand event took place amidst Milan’s Fashion Week, attracting some of the most renowned names in the industry and beyond.
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The theme for this year’s show revolved around Italian craftsmanship and innovation, a nod to the rich cultural heritage of Italy. The evening kicked off with model Gigi Hadid, who donned a striking printed ballgown, setting the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable experience. She introduced the first act, titled “The Artisanal Revolution,” which featured a parade of stars walking the runway in uniquely crafted outfits.
Musician J Balvin made a statement in a flamboyant pink printed suit that shimmered under the venue’s historic lights, closely followed by K-pop sensation EJAE, who captured the audience’s attention in a strapless black and blue ruffled ensemble. The integration of music, dance, and design was evident as the palpable energy of the celebrities electrified the atmosphere.
As the show progressed to the next act, “The Industrial Revolution,” the audience witnessed a dynamic display of talent with Matthew McConaughey taking to the runway alongside his son Levi Alves McConaughey, who at just 18 years old demonstrated impressive flair in a sophisticated grey suit. The segment was further enlivened by actor Sam Claflin, who added his own charm to the affair.
The third segment, aptly titled “Made in Italy,” was heralded by rapper Cardi B, who turned heads in a stunning Versace dress from the Spring 2018 collection adorned with pop-art motifs. The ensemble was further complemented by exquisite jewellery from Tiffany & Co. The segment also included appearances by professional tennis player Aryna Sabalenka, dressed in Gucci, and actress Simone Ashley from the hit series Bridgerton, both showcasing a vibrant embodiment of Italian craftsmanship. The act culminated in a choreographed performance by Jennifer Lopez, who dazzled the crowd in an elaborate black gown from Dolce & Gabbana, complete with glittering accessories.
As the event reached the fourth act titled “The Age of Intelligence,” Machine Gun Kelly took centre stage in an eye-catching orange jumpsuit by Byblos, aptly styled to accentuate his unique personal style. This segment did not shy away from the avant-garde, featuring dancing robots that added an intriguing twist to the proceedings.
The evening was brought to a spectacular close by the celebrated Alicia Keys, whose performance was as memorable as her stunning outfit. Designed collaboratively by Francesco Risso and Alex Sossah from the Bureau of Imagination, her ensemble consisted of a tapestry of luxurious fabrics including satin and chiffon, intricately sewn to embody elegance and movement. As she sang Donna Summer’s classic “I Feel Love,” the runway welcomed models in minimalist, all-white looks, highlighting the sheer beauty of the garments and the power of simplicity in fashion.
Francesca Ragazzi, Vogue Italia’s head of editorial content, shared insights into the significance of this year’s event, emphasising the importance of celebrating Italy’s legacy of artistry and innovation, especially in the context of today’s technological advancements. “This extraordinary event offers a unique opportunity to celebrate with a global audience the timeless story of Made in Italy, a story of genius and craftsmanship,” she explained, emphasising the timely relevance of the theme in an age increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.
Vogue World: Milano not only marks a continuation of the magazine’s global showcase, which began in New York City in 2022 before travelling to cities like London, Paris, and Los Angeles, but it also sets the stage for its next destination: San Francisco in 2024. With each production, Vogue World invites audiences worldwide to join in the celebration of both contemporary fashion and the time-honoured traditions that inspire it.
As the dust settles from this spectacular event, it’s clear that Vogue World: Milano has once again solidified its place in the annals of fashion history, leaving an indelible mark on both the industry and its admirers.