In a packed Cathedral of Matera, Lucanian fashion designer Michele Miglionico unveiled “Vestita di Sole” (Clothed in the Sun), a Jubilee gown created and donated to Maria SS. della Bruna, the patroness of the City of Sassi, in the presence of H.E. Mons. Antonio Giuseppe Caiazzo and the local community.
The event, part of the 70th anniversary of Matera Civitas Mariae and the Jubilee 2025, brought together faith and devotion, offering a deeply moving moment.
“Vestita di Sole” is the name of a gown born from an intimate dialogue between the designer and his spirituality.
Miglionico explained that the creative process was profoundly personal, marked by deliberations and continuous reflections, yet the gown ultimately seemed to take form almost autonomously. It is a piece of Haute Couture, rich in details that blend tradition and innovation, paying homage to craftsmanship and uniquely reflecting devotion to sacred fashion.
The gown draws inspiration from the 1856 copper painting, a symbol of the “Pastori” procession dedicated to the Madonna della Bruna.
The garment is crafted from silk duchess, Valencienne gold lace, and silk brocade. Its late Renaissance-style bodice, made from jacquard fabric, was artisanally woven on an ancient loom. The silk mantle is adorned with raised embroidered roses in gold and silver leaf, emphasizing Marian symbols. One of the two skirts is entirely lined with lace, intricately embroidered with festoons and roses in crystals, pearls, and jet.
A particular source of pride is the “Puntino ad ago” lace shirt, handcrafted by the lacemakers of Latronico, who are the last guardians of this unique technique. Over four months of meticulous work were required to create this extraordinary piece.
Miglionico is among the few designers daring to venture into creations of such spiritual significance, showcasing a rare combination of artistic and devotional sensitivity.
The event, organized by the Maria SS. della Bruna Association, led by Dr. Bruno Caiella, was hosted by journalist Antonella Losignore. It was further enhanced by performances from the Associazione Corale Cantori Materani, directed by Maestro Alessandra Barbaro, and the Coro della Polifonica Materana “Pierluigi da Palestrina”, directed by Maestro Carmine Antonio Catenazzo, which added a highly evocative atmosphere to the occasion.
