The public events of MFW

"Fashion Week is not an opportunity for everyone. It’s a privilege for the few," said the formidable Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada. But is that really the case? In the collective imagination, the fashion industry and everything that revolves around it are often associated with exclusivity. However, in recent years, things have started to change. Slowly but surely, the myth of Fashion Week as an elitist, privileged space is fading, making room for communities. Brands, editorial teams, and organizations are actively involving cities through pop-ups, stands, and public events. Back in 2019, Prada selected florists in Milan to create a custom pop-up stand, while Jacquemus opened his first pop-up at Palazzo Clerici during Milan Fashion Week in February 2022. In short, even those who aren’t particularly into fashion can’t escape the magic that takes over entire cities for a week, offering unique moments filled with endless queues, stylish freebies, and captivating street style worth watching—and maybe even copying. If you want to experience MFW 2025 from February 25 to March 3 but don’t know where to start, don’t worry—here’s a handy guide to public events.

Balenciaga: Shoes from Spain Tribute

From February 21 to March 2, 2025, Palazzo Morando will host the exhibition Balenciaga. Shoes from Spain Tribute, a unique event celebrating the 130th anniversary of Cristóbal Balenciaga, a legendary figure in fashion. This marks the first Italian exhibition entirely dedicated to the renowned designer. Organized by the Federation of Spanish Footwear Industries (FICE), the event highlights the connection between Spanish tailoring traditions and the excellence of the country’s contemporary footwear industry. Expertly curated by Elisa Ossino Studio, the exhibition offers an immersive experience into the artistry of one of fashion’s greatest masters. Visitors will admire twenty-five total looks, blending original Balenciaga designs with footwear from leading Spanish brands, creating a dialogue between past and present, the timeless genius of Balenciaga, and modern Spanish craftsmanship. Find all the details on the initiative's official website, supported by the brand and its partners.

Bazaar Bizarre Pop-up

Amid the buzz of Milan Fashion Week, a sustainable creativity hub opens its doors at Via Pietro Crespi 17. The “Mini” pop-up celebrates the intersection of fashion, craftsmanship, and upcycling, offering a unique experience from February 25 to March 2. Brands like Saphiro Studio, WHO AM, and Pierluigi Porfirio present A-shell, an eclectic mix of vintage, accessories, and hand-painted garments, accompanied by aperitifs and workshops. The opening event on February 25, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, kicks off a week packed with activities: from afternoon openings with aperitifs to garment repair and customization workshops, plus DIY scooby-doo crafting sessions. A must-visit for vintage lovers and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a world where fashion meets sustainability and craftsmanship fuels creativity.

K-Way’s 60th Anniversary Exhibition

As we previously reported, during Milan Fashion Week, K-Way is celebrating its 60th anniversary with the exhibition In Y/Our Life - The Hidden Side of Everyday Things at the Museo della Permanente. This immersive experience explores the hidden meaning of everyday objects through design, art, and technology. Open to the public for free starting February 26, 2025, the exhibition offers a rich program of talks, workshops, and interactive installations. Visitors will admire works by international artists such as Emiliano Ponzi, who will interpret the power of elements and digital writing, and Luisa Rabbia, who will reimagine Dante’s Paradiso circles using Bic pens. Leanne Shapton will explore autobiographical narratives, Patricia Urquiola will present the Tree of Gifts, and Olimpia Zagnoli will transform a beach cabin into a vibrant artwork using 6,800 lollipops. The exhibition also includes a journey through K-Way’s historical archives and sections dedicated to iconic partner brands, inviting the public to reflect on their relationship with objects and their cultural, social, and environmental impact.

Manila Grace Pop-Up

From February 25 to March 3, 2025, Milan turns into a stage for style, and Manila Grace brings an elegant touch to the city. The iconic newsstand at Corso Magenta 24 will be dressed in the brand’s signature colors, transforming into an exclusive pop-up store where the most beloved bags—the Sacca Morbida and the Felicia—will take center stage. This is an unmissable chance to preview the Fall Winter 25/26 collection, featuring leather variations and new details that enhance the unique and versatile design of these accessories. Manila Grace goes beyond simply displaying its creations; it invites the public to a sensory experience: trendy tote bags, fashion gazettes, keychains, and exclusive printed scarves will be given away for free, turning each visit into a moment of discovery and sharing. An invitation to explore the world of Manila Grace, be surprised by its creations, and experience Fashion Week with a touch of originality.

GIADA and the Art to Art exhibition at the Braidense Library

Sophisticated Elegance and Culture. Fashion and Literature. Craftsmanship and Art. These are all elements that come together in GIADA's new project. On February 28, 2025, the brand will unveil its Fall Winter 25/26 Collection at the Biblioteca Braidense of the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan, a stunning location hosting many past fashion shows. GIADA will also reveal the Art to Art exhibition through an exclusive press presentation on this occasion. Following the event, from February 28 to March 2, 2025, this unique aesthetic experience—highlighting the fusion between classical culture and modern artistic inspirations—will be open to the public for free.

Fashion Issues #2: The Future of Designers at Triennale Milano

During the most glamorous week of the year, Triennale Milano becomes the epicenter of the conversation on the future of fashion. Fashion Issues #2: The Future of Designers presents two must-attend talks curated by Vanessa Friedman of The New York Times. On February 24, the discussion will focus on nurturing the next generation of Italian designers with Sara Sozzani Maino and Renzo Rosso. On March 2, the conversation will explore the role and importance of designers with Silvio Campara of Golden Goose. A unique opportunity to dive into the challenges and transformations of the industry, featuring international guests and forward-thinking perspectives.

Fashion Hub 2025

Milan Fashion Week 2025 isn’t just about exclusive runways: Palazzo Giureconsulti, in the heart of Piazza Mercanti, opens its doors to the public with the Fashion Hub, an immersive experience in the world of emerging fashion. From February 25 to March 3, visitors can feel the excitement of Fashion Week through live streaming of runway shows on a massive LED cube, explore exhibitions by young talents, and participate in inspiring talks and creative workshops. The Fashion Hub is a unique opportunity to discover the key projects of this edition, including Designers for the Planet, Ensemble: Voices of Seoul, and a special presentation by designer Charles De Vilmorin. A must-attend event, open from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with a rich schedule available on the official Milan Fashion Week calendar.

Modes Hosts The Archive

Modes hosts The Archive, the world’s largest collection of archival Céline pieces from the Phoebe Philo era. For the first time in Italy, this pop-up collaboration offers highly sought-after archival pieces available for purchase during Milan Fashion Week. Founded by Martina Lohoff in 2020 on Instagram, The Archive has built a community of over 50,000 followers and collectors passionate about the nearly cult-like Phoebe Philo era at Céline. Rare and limited-edition pieces will be showcased, available while supplies last. The event takes place at Piazza Risorgimento 8.