Is Italy Losing Its Fashion Status?

Is Italy losing its status as one of the fashion world’s most influential?

Miuccia Prada sure thinks so.

The Prada creative director, who recently spoke to WWD, believes that Italy will soon fall off the map when it comes to fashion.

“With the sale of our luxury labels to foreigners, our entire system risks falling into second league,” she said.  “If our brands cross the borders, the credit, glamour, fame and decision-making is in the hands of others and we are abandoned, downgraded.”

Prada feels that her country is to blame for the change.  She’s criticized Italy’s government for its belief that fashion is just “frivolous,” and that the country fails to realize how many jobs and sales are generated from the industry.

“We live in a weak cultural world, we are a country that has never wanted to know how to protect and promote its immense landscape and artistic patrimony,” she said.

However, Prada herself should also take some blame.  She recently decided to show her Miu Miu label in Paris rather than Milan.  Wouldn’t it have been better for her to fight for Italy’s place, and show her collection in her native country?  I surely think so.

But readers, what do you think?  Tweet us your thoughts @TheFashionFoot.

Written By: Joanelle Navarro