The Palm Court in the Miami Design District buzzed with anticipation as Istituto Marangoni Miami (IMM) unveiled its annual fashion extravaganza, Volare, a celebration of youthful creativity, innovation, and boundless ambition. More than just a runway showcase, this event marked a milestone: the launch of the IMM x Miami Design District Scholarship Fund — a full-tuition opportunity designed to propel local talent into the global fashion arena.
The iconic courtyard transformed into a vibrant stage where imagination took center stage. The final collections of IMM’s budding designers—Chenqi Jiang, Daniel Uribe, Emilia Mourier, and many others—lit up the runway with daring designs that echoed themes of liberation, exploration, and artistic flight.
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for: supermodel Karolína Kurková made her grand entrance, closing the show amidst thunderous applause. Draped in a vintage wig crafted by legendary hairstylist Antoni Cierplikowski—once worn by Josephine Baker—the Czech beauty embodied the spirit of glamour and history. Kurková, a steadfast supporter of IMM and member of its advisory board, also rocked a piece by student designer Ilayda Polat, showcasing the impeccable talent nurtured within the school’s walls.
The night was about storytelling. Some designs—created with Swarovski crystals courtesy of the brand—sparkled brilliantly under the lights, exemplifying craftsmanship and innovation. The theme—Volare—embraced ideas of flight, freedom, and limitless creativity, mirroring the very ethos of Miami’s burgeoning reputation as a global fashion hub.
Mario Braghieri, Dean of Fashion at IMM, expressed pride in his students’ work: “This show is more than garments—it’s a testament to their passion and perseverance. We’re witnessing the next generation of visionary designers take flight.”
Adding to the evening’s grandeur, the Miami Symphony Orchestra performed live, infusing the event with an auditory elegance that elevated the runway experience to new heights. This seamless blend of fashion, music, and artistry underscored Miami’s unique position as a city where culture and creativity collide.
Perhaps the most impactful announcement came with the debut of the IMM x Miami Design District Scholarship Fund. A full-tuition award valued at $162,300, dedicated to a graduating senior from Design and Architecture Senior High (DASH), aims to ignite dreams and dismantle barriers. Craig Robins, CEO of Dacra, affirmed the district’s commitment: “Supporting this scholarship celebrates our city’s core values—culture, innovation, and community.”
Tickets sales from the event — 100% of proceeds — will directly fund this ambitious initiative, making every seat in the house a contribution toward nurturing Miami’s creative future. Applications are now open via the IMM website, inviting aspiring designers to step into the spotlight.
Credit: World Red Eye & Jonathan Sheriff