(ANSA) - Milan, February 2 - Matteo Renzi is set to be the first Italian premier to open Milan's biannual women's wear fashion week when he attends a lunch at the city's royal palace on February 24.
The announcement by the National Chamber of Italian Fashion comes after deputy Economic Development minister Carlo Calenda slammed Italian leaders last year for failing to support the "strongly cultural" fashion industry due to snobbish attitudes.
Besides fashion, February's event is also focusing on research, and is set to showcase popular new brands including Arthur Arbesser, Vivetta, San Andres, Lucio Vannotti and Piccione Piccione.
Renzi to be first premier to open Milan fashion week
Leaders have been criticised for snubbing event