Polimoda plans expansion into lifestyle studies and US presence

Polimoda is set to broaden its academic offer and international reach, with newly appointed president Niccolò Ricciannouncing a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening the institution’s position in the global education sector.

Speaking in Florence, Ricci described the strategy not as a shift but as a necessary evolution, with the goal of turning Polimoda into what he called a “school of beauty”, expanding beyond fashion into a wider lifestyle focus.

New courses and academic recognition

A key element of the plan is the expansion of courses into lifestyle-related fields, including areas such as fragrances and hospitality. The school is also working to obtain more formal accreditation for its programmes from Italy’s Ministry of University and Research.

The first course to receive accreditation is the undergraduate programme in fashion marketing management, with further applications expected.

Ricci said the institution, which has around 2,000 students, already has a strong international profile, with only about 20% of students coming from Italy and a significant share from the United States.

US office and scholarships

Polimoda will open a representation office in Austin, a university hub chosen for its strategic position and connections with Latin America.

A non-profit entity, “Polimoda US”, will be established to support fundraising activities, particularly to finance scholarships for American students wishing to study in Florence.

Investment in facilities

In Florence, the school is preparing to renovate a building at Manifattura Tabacchi, a former industrial complex now being redeveloped into a cultural and creative district.

The project, with an estimated cost of between €2 million and €3 million, will include a fashion library and a research centre focused on anthropological and sociological studies.

Events and 40th anniversary

Several initiatives are planned to mark Polimoda’s 40th anniversary. These include the annual end-of-year fashion show, scheduled for 15 June at Manifattura Tabacchi, and a larger celebration event in October.

The school will also launch a capsule merchandising collection designed by alumnus Domenico Orefice.

Leadership continuity and outlook

Ricci acknowledged the work of his predecessor Ferruccio Ferragamo, noting that he inherited a financially sound institution with a strong international reputation. He is working alongside director Massimiliano Giornetti and a board he described as cohesive and supportive.

The new president also indicated that the school has received proposals from abroad to open additional campuses, though no decisions have been announced.

Overall, the strategy reflects an effort to position Polimoda within a broader creative and lifestyle education market, while reinforcing its ties to Florence and expanding its global network.

(Cover photo: Villa Favard, Florence – Polimoda headquarters and Polimoda Library / Stralanchi Ph. via Wikipedia)

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