BARI-The Apulia Runway Experience has drawn attention to the world of Pugliese artisans and the region’s fashion industry, showcasing their contributions as part of the larger "Made in Italy" brand.

 Held last month for the second time ever, the Apulia Runway Experience, also known as Puglia Fashion Week, took place from November 9 to 13, 2024, across multiple locations in the Apulia region. From modern catwalks to historic cathedrals, the event highlighted the accomplishments of the region's artisans and designers.

 It was a bold showcase, featuring everything from models in futuristic space suits strutting down runways to artisanal designers using recycled plastic and even coffee byproducts in jewellery and design features.

 Rea Space, an innovative Puglian company that won the 2024 Compasso d’Oro, presented its work at the show for the first time. Flavio Augusto Gentile, the designer behind the space suits, made waves with his creations, which were a key element in the company’s award-winning collection.

 The event highlighted a wide range of sustainable designs, from jewellery made from recycled coffee products to the futuristic space suits. Over 50 selected Puglian brands and dozens of professionals were involved in this ambitious effort.

 The fashion shows and exhibitions of accessories and jewellery reflected the diversity of the region. Puglia is a land of distinct experiences, where no two catwalks were the same. Each town has its own dialect and culture, making the event a true reflection of the region’s uniqueness.

 “[This event] emphasizes these professionals and an area that already enjoys great fortune due to its geographical location and historical and architectural beauty and makes them VISIBLE in the eyes of international operators,” said Daniele Del Genio, President for Puglia of the Confederazione Nazionale dell'Artigianato e della Piccola e Media Impresa (CNA), an organization based in Puglia, not Rome.

 The Apulia Runway Experience aimed to bring attention to the important innovators driving the region's activities, particularly in Bari. Despite being Italy's ninth-largest city, Bari often does not receive the attention or investment that other regions enjoy, even though its artisans frequently work behind the scenes to produce design masterpieces. According to the event’s organizers, ARE (Apulia Runway Experience) focuses on artisans, seamstresses, designers, and small and medium-sized producers who have been serving major international brands for years.

 The event not only celebrated craftsmanship but also highlighted Bari’s economic potential. In Italy, as elsewhere, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) drive employment and provide well-paying jobs. Jobs in the fashion industry earn more than the average in Italy.

 As of 2024, entry-level designers in Italy can earn around €42,247, while veteran professionals can make up to €72,792. These are good jobs though ones that admittedly depend very much at the whims of consumers.

 Still the overall growing interest in events like the Apulia Runway Experience, which elevate the value of craftsmanship and innovation in the fashion world speaks to the fact that the creative economy remains a vital part of the overall Italian economy.