Imphal: Manipur fashion designer Robert Naorem brought state handloom traditions to Italy on September 20, 2026. He opened a major fashion event at the Meliá Milano Hotel in Milan. The showcase featured 27 different runway shows from designers across the globe.
Naorem took the lead spot. He sent 22 models down the catwalk wearing pieces crafted from Manipur textiles. The collection blends traditional patterns with modern design. It represents a decade of work for the designer. This event marks the 10-year anniversary of his official fashion label.
Collaborators included the Department of Sericulture, Government of Manipur, and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. Event organizers Prasanna and New Stars pulled in professionals from London, Germany, Italy, and Kazakhstan. Naorem hopes to bridge the gap between cultural heritage and modern clothing. He noted the goal is to show how these fabrics function in a global market.
"The showcase is expected to bring together fashion personalities, industry professionals and an international audience, creating opportunities for greater visibility and potential collaboration around Manipuri textiles and craftsmanship," organizers stated. Naorem is no stranger to the Italian fashion scene. He has used Milan as a stage for his work in previous years.
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