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January 18, 2015

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Fashion reaches for the clouds

ANDRé Cardinali has a mission in mind. The international cultural events creator is keen to bring the first “Cumulus Fashion World” show to Shanghai on May 22. Forty designers from 20 countries, such as Australia, France and South Africa, will participate the Shanghai event.

“Cumulus Fashion World is not a trade show, nor is it a school contest, it is a springboard for the careers of young designers,” said the Frenchman.

Following the success of the first Cumulus Fashion Tours, sponsored by Michel Rocard, in Paris at the Carrousel du Louvre, the Triennale di Milano and the London College of Fashion Cardinali wanted to pursue the idea in China.

Cardinali’s passion is to help young talent today so they will be successful tomorrow. He speaks with Shanghai Daily about the show, which is still being finalized.

Q: During your career you have been involved in public relations, strategy consulting, events, art and culture. How did you get your start in the fashion world and why did you found Cumulus?

As director of development for the “European Way(s) of Life” design exhibition at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris in May 2002, Cumulus students presented several creations. It gave me the idea to create the first European fashion show, which I called Cumulus Fashion Tour with 20 European countries participating.

Q: What is Cumulus?

Cumulus Association is an international network of universities, colleges, associations, businesses and other multicultural partners in the fields of art, design and media. It was founded in 1990 in Helsinki, Finland. Cumulus has 211 members from 48 countries. For the show in Shanghai, we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Cumulus. I have the support of professor Lou Yongqi, Cumulus vice-president and dean of the College of Design and Innovation at Tongji University.

Q: Why are you helping young designers?

I will never forget what some grown-up people did for me when I was young, this allowed me to have a good journey. It is my duty and mission to help young people and it is what motivates me. Adults often forget they were once young and were helped by their elders.

Q: Why are you bringing Cumulus Fashion World to Shanghai?

After the three fashion capitals, Paris, Milan and London, Shanghai is obviously the next perfect choice to host this unique event. Cumulus Fashion World aims to create links and develop the talents of tomorrow. Most of the young designers who participated in the European Cumulus Fashion Tour have found jobs in fashion houses.

Q: What is the most challenging part of making the Shanghai event happen?

I am looking for the support of French companies operating in China to provide us with financial and logistical support, as well as companies from other countries involved in the show. I am also looking for the support of the cultural authorities of Shanghai Municipality, of the Embassy of France in China, of 18 other embassies of the involved countries, and of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China.

Q: Where will the parade take place?

We are trying to get Shanghai Exhibition Center but nothing has been finalized. The past three European parades were held in prestigious places such as the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, the Triennale in Milan, and the London College of Fashion in London. They were all graciously offered.

Q: How do you select the finalists for the event?

The teachers from each design institute will choose the two models that will be presented. Cumulus Fashion World is an exceptional showcase for schools and students, allowing them to present two of their graduation works: a ready-to-wear and an haute couture models. That is to say 40 models in total.

Q: There are several fashion competitions for young designers around the world. What makes Cumulus Fashion World special?

Cumulus Fashion World is not a trade show, nor is it a school contest, it is a springboard for the careers of young designers. That’s why it’s unique.

Q: What prizes and opportunities are given to the winners?

Four prizes will be awarded by a jury coming from the world of fashion, media and design. The winners of the Jury Grand Prix will be invited to work for one year in an haute-couture house.




 

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