ITALIAN FASHION ACCESSORIES AT MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK

New York, February 12, 2010 - The Italian Trade Commission in collaboration with FIAMP, the Italian Federation of Fashion Accessories, will showcase for the first time, the creativity, flair, sophistication and exquisite craftsmanship and style of every accessory category "Made in Italy". These include footwear, eyeglasses, jewelry, handbags, small leather goods and fur products. The exhibition will be in view during New York's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, from February 11th to February 18th in Bryant Park.

Italian accessories are renowned for their beauty that stems from the attention to detail shown by the artisans who create them; expert artisans who are able to combine traditional craftsmanship and modern technology and design. They have retained the largest influence on the accessory industry internationally. The most prestigious fashion accessories designs in the world today are Italian.

The weeklong exhibition will present the latest trends and styles in every accessory category to fashion enthusiasts from around the world attending the fall 2010 fashion shows in New York. Authentic high quality, "Made in Italy" handbags, leather accessories, jewelry, eyeglasses, fur products and footwear signed by some of the most prestigious names from the Italian industry will be displayed in the lobby at the tents in Bryant Park.

FIAMP was founded in 2004 and reunites the Associations of Leather Goods Manufacturers (AIMPES), Footwear (ANCI), Eyewear (ANFAO) and Jewelers (FEDERORAFI). The Tanners Association (UNIC) joined the Federation in 2007, as did the Furriers Association (AIP) in 2009. FIAMP groups together the excellence of Italian fashion accessory producers that employ more than 270 thousand associates working in 34 thousand businesses. Together, these firms generate export revenues of over 21 billion Euros, a contributory value of 7.8 billion Euros and steady foreign sales of approximately 11 billion Euros.

"We are very happy and proud to bring this important exhibition to Bryant Park in collaboration with the Italian Trade Commission in New York. It certainly allows us to present in a comprehensive way the workmanship, design and extraordinary imagination of our designers and artisans", says Mauro Muzzolon , FIAMP President.

"For the Italian Trade Commission is always a pleasure to be able to keep our commitment to support the magnificent work and products from our country, Italy. In this case we are certain that the international public attending this important fashion week will be able to confirm the uniqueness and exquisite taste of the "Made in Italy" says Aniello Musella, Executive Director of Italian Trade Commission – ICE for the US.