Fashion in the Mediterranean is as diverse as the sea that surrounds it, and this October’s FiftySix Design Talk is set to explore two unique approaches shaping the region’s style. Join us on Wednesday 30th October for a conversation that spans from sustainable upcycling to high-fashion luxury with Dana Carmont and Charles & Ron.
Dana Carmont: Turning Fashion Waste into Style Statements
Dana Carmont is no stranger to the world of fashion, but it’s her ability to see potential where others see waste that sets her apart. Originally from Sydney, Dana has called Malta home for years, and it’s here that she turned her experience in swimwear into something much bigger. With the REFASHION Project Collection, she’s taking upcycling to new heights, transforming leftover fabrics, vintage curtains, and even pre-loved denim into stylish pieces that tell a story of sustainability and Mediterranean elegance.
Her Birkirkara studio is where the magic happens—bucket hats crafted from vintage curtains, elegant lace tops born from tablecloths, and patchwork creations that breathe new life into forgotten fabrics. For Dana, fashion isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making conscious choices. And in a world full of fast fashion, her slow, thoughtful approach is refreshing.
Charles & Ron: Fashion as a Love Letter to Malta
At the opposite end of the spectrum, we find Charles & Ron, Malta’s premier luxury fashion duo. Since 1992, Charles van Maarschalkerweerd Borg and Ron van Maarschalkerweerd Borg have been shaping the Maltese fashion scene with their bold designs that marry local tradition with international flair. Their pieces are unmistakably Mediterranean—vibrant, elegant, and rooted in the architectural beauty of Malta’s landscapes and culture.
From dressing global stars like Ariana Grande to showcasing at Buckingham Palace, their work has taken the world by storm. But at its core, Charles & Ron’s fashion remains a love letter to their homeland, blending the richness of Maltese heritage with the sleek sophistication of modern couture. At FiftySix, Ron will share their journey—how they grew from a small studio into a global brand, all while staying true to their roots.
FiftySix Design Talks is an exciting collaboration between The Golden Glitch and the Valletta Design Cluster. This dynamic partnership brings together artists, designers, and innovators for a series of talks that explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in design. It’s a space where time-honored crafts meet contemporary ideas, all hosted within the historic walls of Valletta.
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