Paris & Florence: A Couture Journey Between Two Fashion Capitals
Posted on 26/02/2026
As birthplaces of modern fashion, Paris and Florence have shaped the global language of luxury, craftsmanship, and haute couture over the centuries. Two cities, two cultures, two distinct approaches to savoir-faire, yet a shared commitment to excellence.
In Summer 2026, IFA Paris and Polimoda are joining forces to offer an exclusive four-week immersive program, designed to provide students with an academic and cultural experience at the heart of these two iconic fashion capitals.
An Immersion Between Italian Tradition and French Haute Couture
From June 27 to July 25, 2026, participants will experience a unique journey structured around two weeks in Florence and two weeks in Paris. The objective is to explore two complementary visions of design by combining Italian artisanal culture with the technical precision of French haute couture.
In Florence, the first two weeks focus on creative development and textile culture. Students work on fashion design, trend research, illustration, and technical drawing, building a strong conceptual foundation supported by a research book, moodboard, design development, and technical flats.
Special attention is given to fabric and material selection, informed by an immersion in the Prato textile district, approached as a major European textile and sourcing ecosystem. A visit to the Ferragamo Museum reinforces students’ understanding of craftsmanship excellence and product culture. The creative proposal developed in Florence directly feeds into the couture phase in Paris.
In Paris, the following two weeks take place in the workshops of IFA Paris, where students deepen their mastery of the fundamental techniques of haute couture: pattern making, draping, advanced sewing techniques, leather craftsmanship, and plumasserie.
Building on their research, participants translate it into technically accomplished, portfolio-ready garments. The immersion is complemented by professional visits such as the Marché Saint-Pierre and the 19M CHANEL Métiers d’Art, dedicated to the preservation and transmission of exceptional craftsmanship.
One Month to Strengthen Couture Foundations
With four weeks of practical workshops and professional immersion, the program emphasizes experimentation and hands-on learning. The structured progression from concept development in Florence to couture execution in Paris provides a balanced experience and equips students with portfolio-ready couture foundations.
Beyond technical skills, this dual immersion provides a true intercultural perspective on fashion. This partnership between IFA Paris and Polimoda reflects a shared ambition: to transmit heritage and artisanal excellence while preparing future designers for the realities of the international fashion industry.
- Dates: June 27 to July 25, 2026
- Applications are open via our partner agency here.


