Fashion, much like architecture and crafts, is deeply reflective of culture and identity. In the Mediterranean, fashion has always drawn from the rich tapestry of history and tradition. From handwoven fabrics to intricate embroidery, designers in the region have long celebrated the craftsmanship that goes into every garment. But as fashion evolves, so does the role of the designer, with contemporary-day creators facing new challenges around sustainability, ethical production, and changing consumer expectations.
In Malta, this fusion of traditional influences with digital advancements can be seen in how contemporary designers approach their craft. Local graphic designers are drawing from their cultural heritage, combining it with cutting-edge tools to create visual languages that speak to both the past and the future. Whether it’s through typography, branding, or interactive media, the digital world has opened up new avenues for expression.
At designMT, fashion design will be explored not just as a creative outlet but as a force for positive change. Exhibitions and discussions will delve into how Mediterranean designers are leading the way in the sustainable fashion movement, reshaping the industry while staying true to their cultural roots. From timeless pieces inspired by the region’s heritage to bold, contemporary designs that challenge convention, the fashion at designMT will showcase how designers are bridging tradition with innovation, and ethics with aesthetics.
This new wave of Mediterranean fashion is about more than just looking good. It’s about making a statement, preserving craftsmanship, and promoting responsible design practices that reflect the values of a region deeply connected to both the past and the future.
designMT is organised by the Malta Crafts Foundation with the support of Arts Council Malta, Heritage Malta, the Industrial Property Registrations Unit, Malta Digital Innovation Authority, and Malta Tourism Authority, and in collaboration with the Golden Glitch, Kamra tal-Periti, Spazju Kreattiv, and the Valletta Cultural Agency, with Lovin Malta as Media Partners. The event unites designers, architects, and creatives to explore the blend of tradition and innovation across architecture, fashion, digital art, and more, while celebrating Malta’s cultural heritage.