At MICAM Milano, creativity takes the lead once again as the Emerging Designers initiative returns with twelve new voices redefining the language of contemporary footwear. Held from 13 to 15 September 2026 at Fiera Milano Rho, Italy, the project highlights MICAM’s ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of designers through visibility, dialogue and international exchange.
Launched in 2018, Emerging Designers has evolved into one of MICAM’s most distinctive cultural formats. Each edition brings together twelve designers selected by a jury of influential figures in fashion and communications, chaired by Ernesto Esposito. This year’s panel includes Sabrina Donadel, Ada Kokosar, Americo Cacciapuoti, Bojan Kostic and Sergio Zambon, alongside MICAM representatives Giovanna Ceolini and Giorgio Possagno.
The selected designers Eeclat, En Talons, Joel Wijangco, Maliko, Moon2gether, Nalebe, Paidal, Raphia, Stefano Mugnai, Te Dreamers Club, Tenconi and Wud—will present their collections in a dedicated exhibition area conceived to enhance visibility and foster meaningful encounters with companies, buyers and industry professionals. They will also participate in the MICAM Next programme, sharing their creative journeys and perspectives on the future of footwear.
What emerges from the 2026 lineup is not a single trend, but a shared sensibility: a desire to experiment, to explore materiality, and to rethink construction through a contemporary lens. The collections reflect a market where design quality, comfort and brand identity have become essential components of the product experience.
“Supporting new talent means investing in the future of the entire footwear supply chain,” says Giovanna Ceolini, President of MICAM and Assocalzaturifici. Her words echo the purpose of the initiative: to connect creativity with opportunity and to nurture the evolution of international footwear.
As the programme reaches its ninth edition, Emerging Designers continues to serve as an observatory of future directions in the footwear sector a space where craftsmanship, research and innovation converge. MICAM reinforces its role as a development platform for new brands, offering both Italian and international designers a place to grow, experiment and build their path from creative exploration to entrepreneurial reality. MICAM Milano will take place from 13 to 15 September at Fiera Milano Rho.