The Link 2025 Contest: The 9 finalists have been chosen!
Over 120 entries were submitted from some of the most renowned fashion schools across Europe—each of exceptional quality, united by a strong vision and vibrant creative energy. The technical jury faced an even more challenging task than usual, requiring additional rounds of evaluation and deeper analysis to identify the most deserving candidates.
These selected finalists will now move on to the next phase: pattern-making and real-life design, following the initial stage focused solely on creativity and style. What stood out in the final review is that nearly all of the submitted works carry a powerful message of vitality—an evident desire to reinterpret the language of fashion with new symbols that are less somber and far more saturated with color. It’s a message coming from the youth, and as such, a hopeful bet on the near future.
MarediModa supports these young talents every step of the way, thanks to the invaluable contribution of its exhibitors, who supply fabrics and produce the custom prints designed by the finalists. In Cannes, the spotlight will be on their atelier—a creative hub free from commercial constraints, offering a pure expression of artistry. Their journey will culminate in a spectacular runway show on October 23.
THE FINALISTS:
BEACHWEAR
MATTIA D’AQUILA ITALY ACCADEMIA PBS
VICTORIA MINASCURTA MOLDOVA NEXT FASHION SCHOOL BY CARLA SECOLI
EMMA KIANINIA PARASTOO IRAN ACCADEMIA DI BELLE ARTI BOLOGNA
UNDERWEAR
REKA KINGA BARTHA HUNGARY UNIVERSITY OF ART AND DESIGN – CLUJ NAPOCA
MARILENA NICOLAU CYPRUS ALEXANDER COLLEGE – CYPRUS
JESSICA TWOMEY UK LONDON COLLEGE OF FASHION
ATHLEISURE
MARTA FANCIULLI ITALY ACCADEMIA DEL LUSSO – ROMA
MELISSA ISACCO ITALY ISGMD
MICHELE ZAZZERONI ITALY NEXT FASHION SCHOOL BY CARLA SECOLI
