Credit: Prada
Among the most iconic pieces of Prada's Spring Summer 2025 collection, the mirror-effect skirt with geometric circles undoubtedly stands out. A fascinating process that blends futuristic Sixties aesthetics with artisanal mastery. To find out how it was created, we spoke with Daniele Fiorin of Artigiani Moderni, a company specializing in the production of manufacturing components for footwear, leather goods and furniture.
The process begins with a calfskin that is laminated, that is, covered with a very thin metal sheet. This is done using a flat press, where, thanks to heat, a special adhesive welds the sheet to the leather uniformly, creating the mirror effect typical of the model. Once the leather has been prepared, the holes are made, performed using automatic cutting. We start by creating the template - the digital mold of the skirt - and, once the shape has been defined, we move on to the actual cutting.
At this point, the circles are applied, which are made of galvanized ABS, a lightweight but resistant plastic material. Galvanization is a treatment that serves to coat the surface of the plastic with a thin layer of metal, giving the accessories a shiny and bright finish. The result is a solid decorative element that does not weigh down the garment or alter its structure. Each circle is composed of two components - a male and a female - that are screwed together. In the case of this skirt, with a wide cut, the application of the circles can take place either before or after the packaging, depending on the needs of the production process.
Although it may seem like a simple process, it requires special attention, especially in the management of the material. The metal sheet, in fact, is extremely delicate and easily subject to scratches. For this reason, during the entire process, it is essential to wear cotton gloves, to protect the surface from damage, even the smallest ones caused by nails.
