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Design Industry in Context
The ‘Design Industry in Context’ Reading Room gathers notes on how design lives in the world. These pieces look at industry trends, histories, and emerging practices, with the aim of giving students a grounded sense of where design is heading, how it is changing, and how creative work takes shape in real contexts.
Why Design Schools Still Matter in an Age of AI
Students and families are starting to ask: “Why study design at all, when AI can already make things that look pretty good?” Behind that is a deeper question: “Why invest in a design education when AI can do the work?” This essay looks at how strong design programs help students develop discernment and judgment — skills far beyond AI’s reach. In a world where AI is just one tool among many, successful designers will direct AI, and produce work that is meaningful, not just pol
Jul 229 min read
Over 70,000 Specialists Needed in Luxury Manufacturing by 2028
Prada chairman: Technology will never replace the abilities of creators and craftspersons. Recent figures indicate that - because of generational turn-over - 70,000 specialized professionals will be needed in luxury manufacturing by 2028 - and over 270,000 overall. It is estimated that the current labor supply can meet only 50% of that demand. As a result, specialists in luxury manufacturing - fashion accessories, jewelry, leather goods, furnishings, and high-end watches,
Jun 241 min read
Exploring Form and Color: Pucci's Signature Style on Display in Sicily
The Florentine design house, Pucci, has long been known for its bold two-dimensional forms—curves, diagonals, and rhythmic geometries—paired with a distinctive palette that makes the brand immediately recognizable at a glance. Pucci’s recent Spring/Summer 2026 presentation delivered all that and more. Entitled "L’Alba" (Dawn), the show—directed by Pucci creative director Camille Miceli—was staged in the ancient Grotta dei Cordari (Ropemakers) in Siracusa, on the island of Sic
Jun 231 min read
How Color Informs Perception: Nike's "Black Tea" Shading
Athletics-inspired footwear can be tricky to wear casually: it’s comfortable and iconic, but it can read as overly sporty—or, in darker colorways, overly severe. With its latest Air Force 1 Low, Nike addresses that tension through a subtle color choice: “Black Tea,” a deep, earth-ground shade that isn’t quite pure black. It’s a smart reminder that color doesn’t just change how an object looks—it changes what we assume it’s for. “Black Tea” keeps the shoe refined and serious,
May 241 min read
Innovation from Tradition: Givenchy at Cannes
At the Cannes Film Festival premiere of Garance, Cate Blanchett appeared in a striking gown from Givenchy’s Fall 2026 collection. In its design, the gown is an elegant reminder that innovation often begins with what already exists. As W described it, the backless design features a softly wrapped neckline and a formal, floor-length hem, all crafted in black silk. Across the front, embroidered flowers in red, pink, yellow, and blue unfurl over swirling green stems, with subtle
May 211 min read
Charting Innovation Without Maps: Lessons from 109 Years of Balenciaga Fashion.
Archival 1937 image from the L'Officiel interview article. Approaching its 110th anniversary in 2027, Balenciaga remains a symbol of enduring innovation in haute couture. With nearly 25 years of experience at Valentino, including 16 as its creative director, Italian designer Pierpaolo Piccioli embarks on a new journey, shaping Balenciaga’s legacy since his appointment as creative director in 2025. Fashion publication l'Officiel recently featured an interview with Piccioli, of
May 92 min read
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