A stunning exhibition in Brussels celebrates the history of Italian style with 40 iconic creations
Italian fashion conquers Brussels
“60 Years of Made in Italy – The history of Italian style” is more than just an exhibition: it’s an emotional journey through fabrics, cinema, and celebrities. From June 5 to September 19, 2025, the exhibition space of the Italian Cultural Institute in Brussels hosts a tribute to Italian sartorial genius featuring 40 archive couture pieces designed by fashion giants such as Armani, Versace, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Gucci, Moschino, Ferré, and many more.
This “museum red carpet” recounts 60 years of fashion, design, and Italian identity in a European capital that amplifies the prestige of Made in Italy worldwide.
40 dresses, endless stories
Each dress tells a story. From the Naomi Campbell Genny gown (1992) to the Jennifer Lopez Jungle Dress by Versace, from the Brioni tuxedo worn by Pierce Brosnan as James Bond to Cate Blanchett’s Prada sequin stunner.
Gems include the “Pretino” by the Fontana Sisters for Ava Gardner, Galitzine’s “Palazzo Pajamas” for Claudia Cardinale, and the iconic red Valentino dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley. Each piece is a bridge between fashion, cinema, culture, and pure glamour.
Where fashion meets cinema and art
Italian fashion has never been afraid to dare. Moschino’s witty bra-dress, Mattiolo’s harlequin hand-painted corset, and Laug’s artisanal stripe gown redefine couture through a theatrical lens.
Fashion becomes a mirror of personal and collective identity: from opera inspirations like Balestra’s “Carmen” gown for Maria Callas, to the Sicilian baroque mosaic of Marella Ferrera’s “staircase dress”, every outfit embodies bold creativity.
A global journey in the name of Made in Italy
Launched in Rome in 2012, the format has toured globally—from Washington to Mexico City, from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, from Moscow to Guangzhou—and now arrives in Brussels, the heart of European institutions.
The exhibition is produced by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and the Italian Cultural Institute, curated by journalists Fiorella Galgano and Alessia Tota, and inaugurated by Pierre Di Toro, Director of “Chiara Fama”, and Tindaro Paganini, Director of ITA.
When, where, and why to go
📍 Italian Cultural Institute, Rue de Livourne 38, Brussels
📅 June 5 – September 19, 2025
ℹ️ Info: Official Event Page
An exhibition that’s a journey, a tribute, and a visual manifesto. So… have you ever worn a dream?
FAQ
1. When is the exhibition taking place?
From June 5 to September 19, 2025.
2. Where is it located?
At the Italian Cultural Institute in Brussels.
3. How many garments are on display?
40 unique, archival, and haute couture pieces.
4. Which designers are featured?
34 designers including Armani, Versace, Valentino, Gucci, Prada, Moschino, Ferré, Biagiotti and others.
5. Are the dresses worn by celebrities?
Yes—by stars like Naomi Campbell, Cate Blanchett, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Hurley.
6. Is admission free?
Not specified in the release; please check the official website.
7. What makes this exhibition unique?
It showcases iconic garments that made Italian fashion history.
8. Are there side events?
Yes, including a documentary with an exclusive interview with Micol Fontana.
9. What eras are represented?
From the 1950s to today, including Dolce Vita, cinema, and red carpet glamour.
10. Who should attend?
Anyone passionate about fashion, film, costume history, and Italian excellence.
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