At the 41st edition of Milano Unica, held from July 8–10 2025 at Fiera Milano Rho, the AlpTextyles – Intertwining Cultures project introduced a multi-sensory exhibition designed to reimagine Alpine textile traditions through ecological transition and circular innovation. 

The 120 m² stand, located in the Trends & Innovation Area, presented materials, capsule collections, narratives, and methods shaped by the Alpine region’s cultural and environmental history.

Visitors explored native wools in the tactile Library of Alpine Wools, alongside artisanal fabrics and natural dye experiments that revived ancestral techniques. 

Garments created by young designers blended traditional elements—such as Cantù lacework—with contemporary forms, illustrating the potential of short supply chains and heritage-based design.

The digital area featured the AlpTextyles Metaverse, a virtual space where Alpine landscapes and textile stories were reinterpreted through interactive experiences. A preview of the AlpTextyles MOOC offered insights into circular practices rooted in local knowledge and community engagement.

With more than 1,500 professionals from across the fashion and textile industry visiting the exhibition, AlpTextyles championed its core message: that heritage is not a static feature that needs only preservation, but a living resource that is open to re-imagination, redesign, and redistribution.

For more information on the project see the project website. 

Photo Credits: Federico Masini for AlpTextyles

AlpTextyles is co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg Alpine Space Programme 2021–2027. The project is coordinated by 12 partners across
6 Alpine countries (Austria, France,Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland), including research institutions, regional authorities, design schools, and cultural agencies.