Azzopardi Studio Brings Malta’s Għonnella Into The Future At Expo Osaka
Malta’s leading couture designer Luke Azzopardi is taking the Għonnella, the iconic Maltese folk dress, to the global stage with a groundbreaking fashion project at Expo 2025 Osaka.
Azzopardi Studio, known for blending art history, costume research, and artisanal craftsmanship, presents THE BLACK GARMENT, a live fashion installation exploring Malta’s cultural heritage through contemporary couture. The project reimagines the Għonnella using historical research, photography, prose, and cutting-edge design techniques, connecting Malta’s past with global influences and new creative expressions.
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At the show, six live models wore contemporary interpretations of the Għonnella, accompanied by an immersive video and sound installation. A limited-run catalogue documented the historical and creative journey behind the collection.
The project goes beyond fashion: it’s a curatorial exploration of Malta’s folklore and intercultural history, highlighting how the Għonnella reflects centuries of connections between people and cultures. By transforming this traditional garment into a contemporary art piece, Azzopardi Studio honours Malta’s past while imagining the future of fashion.
This project was commissioned by Arts Council Malta and made possible thanks to Malta Enterprise, The Malta Pavilion, Malta Crafts Foundation and Heritage Malta.
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