From 6 to 15 July 2026, participants from countries including Mexico, Taiwan, Colombia, Ireland and beyond embarked on an immersive journey through Paris and Antwerp. Organized under the umbrella of the Antwerp Summer & Winter University and in collaboration with the Institut Français de la Mode, the Summer School combined academic learning with direct engagement with fashion professionals, companies and craftspeople, as well as with the cultural heritage of both cities.
The journey started in Paris, where participants explored the city’s position in fashion history and the evolution of luxury fashion. Lectures explored Paris as a global hub for luxury and its historical role as the capital of couture, while also addressing how sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of the future of French maisons.
The connection between fashion, creativity and heritage came to life during a visit to the Dior Fall/Winter 2026–2027 exhibition by Jonathan Anderson at the Musée Rodin. The exhibition offered participants an opportunity to look at fashion not only as an industry, but also as a form of artistic expression shaped by heritage, innovation and cultural dialogue.
The students then travelled to Antwerp, where the focus shifted towards the broader realities of fashion management and responsible business. A diverse program of guest lectures explored the many challenges and opportunities facing the sector today. Topics included finance, marketing, supply chain management, techno-responsibility, and legislative frameworks under EU regulation, demonstrating that responsible fashion requires multiple perspectives and a holistic understanding from across the entire value chain.
The training program was complemented by experiences outside the university. Participants visited REantwerp, one of the Just Fashion pilot cases, to discover how local manufacturing can contribute to more sustainable and responsible fashion practices. At the Wouters & Hendrix atelier, the students gained a closer look at artisanal jewelry making, local craftsmanship and responsible production, experiencing first-hand the knowledge and skills behind a more considered approach to making.
Antwerp’s fashion history also played an important role in the program. A visit to the Antwerp 6 Expo offered participants the opportunity to discover the legacy of the Antwerp Six and revisit the impact of the Antwerp Fashion Festival on the city’s fashion identity.
The 2026’ edition of the Responsible Fashion Management Summer School created a vibrant space for international exchange, bringing together diverse perspectives on responsible fashion. Participants shared ideas and explored how responsible practices can be applied across the industry. The success of the edition was made possible by the enthusiasm of the participants and the valuable contributions of speakers, partners, companies and institutions.
The journey may have ended in Antwerp, but the conversation continues. We look forward to welcoming a new international group of students and professionals to the 2027 Summer School on Responsible Fashion Management.
Stay tuned for the Edition 2027 and join us in exploring how we can shape a more responsible future for fashion.
