On July 9th, the Italy Pavilion auditorium at Expo hosted a seminar titled “Traditions to Wear: Molise Costumes and Japanese Garments Through Time” – a captivating exploration of two seemingly distant worlds brought together by their shared reverence for memory, identity, and craftsmanship.
The event began with welcome remarks from Molise Regional Councilor Angelo Primiani and renowned television personality Girolamo Panzetta. Dr. Antonio Scasserra, Director of the Museum of Vestments, captivated the audience with a visual journey through Molise’s traditional history, showcasing evocative historical images, traditional costumes, and jewelry. It was a deep dive into regional culture, exploring the embroidery, threads, and symbols that speak to identity and belonging.
The seminar then shifted focus to Japan with a presentation by Aika Okochi, founder of the Renacnatta brand and representative of Dodici company. This young entrepreneur with a global perspective shared her creative philosophy centered on “wearing culture.” She transforms surplus fabrics and vintage kimono into accessories like ties, contemporary clothing, and even wedding dresses that blend tradition with innovation – embodying both sustainability and the celebration of craftsmanship. Her creations, much like Molise’s traditional costumes, demonstrate that fashion’s future – and society’s – depends on understanding our roots and honoring cultural identity.
Next, Asano Hiroki, a master craftsman of Obi (traditional Japanese belts), provided a concrete example of how elegance, artisanal precision, and cultural memory can unite in contemporary forms that speak to today’s world while honoring the past. The event concluded with a spotlight on the art of bobbin lace, presented by Gerardo Abbatiello from the Isernia Lace Association. His presentation, enhanced by a live demonstration from a skilled lace maker, emphasized the importance of traditional “know-how” as a tool for storytelling and collective identity.
The gathering represented a genuine cultural embrace between Molise and Japan, connected by the delicate yet enduring thread of culture that becomes clothing, adornment, and wearable history.
