NIC Award Victory Connects COOLT with Japanese Importer

Italian bag and accessories brand COOLT has successfully secured a Japanese importer following their Media Prize victory at the 2024 NIC Award fashion competition. Founded in 2016 by sisters Eleonora and Eugenia D'Ambrosio De Dominicis in Italy's Abruzzo region, COOLT represents the new generation of Italian craftsmanship excellence.

The brand's journey to Japan began with their participation in the NIC Award, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan's annual fashion competition dedicated to showcasing emerging Italian designers to the Japanese market. COOLT's distinctive leather creations caught the attention of industry professionals, ultimately earning them the prestigious Media Prize in the 2024 edition.
This recognition proved instrumental in opening doors to the Japanese market, with several importers expressing interest in the brand following the award ceremony. The sisters' dedication to traditional Abruzzo leather-working techniques, combined with contemporary design sensibilities, resonated strongly with Japanese buyers known for their appreciation of quality craftsmanship.

The success of COOLT exemplifies the effectiveness of cultural and commercial bridges between Italy and Japan. Their story demonstrates how emerging Italian designers can find new markets through dedicated platforms that understand both Italian creativity and Japanese market preferences.
Looking ahead, the NIC Award will continue its mission of connecting Italian fashion talent with Japanese opportunities. The 2025 fashion show and award ceremony, scheduled for November in Musashi Koyama, promises to present another cohort of promising Italian designers to the Japanese market. COOLT's achievement serves as inspiration for future participants, showing that recognition through the NIC Award can translate into tangible business opportunities and international expansion.

Source: Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan