Exploring Luxury and Craftsmanship: A Visit to Ferragamo’s Headquarters in Florence
On April 4, 2025, a delegation of students from John Cabot University had the opportunity to visit the headquarters of Ferragamo in Florence, Italy. Organized by the Career Services Office, this visit provided students with a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion, as well as the craftsmanship and innovation that has made Ferragamo a global icon.
The visit kicked off with a detailed presentation about the company’s rich history, offering students insights into how Salvatore Ferragamo’s visionary approach to shoe design revolutionized the fashion industry. Students learned about the company’s journey from its humble beginnings to its current position as a leader in luxury footwear, accessories, and apparel. This history of passion, creativity, and commitment to quality introduced an engaging exploration of Ferragamo’s core values and the integral role that craftsmanship has played in its success.
Ferragamo’s representative shared a detailed overview of the company structure and its future vision. From the creative team to the marketing and business development departments, students learned about the variety of roles that contribute to the continued success of Ferragamo. The company’s commitment to excellence and innovation was highlighted, showcasing how Ferragamo has stayed ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of luxury fashion. Furthermore, the students learned about exciting career opportunities within the company, ranging from design and craftsmanship to business strategy and management. This provided them with a broader understanding of how professionals can build successful careers at a global luxury brand.
Following the presentation, the students were led on an exclusive guided tour of the Ferragamo Museum, a treasure trove of the company’s history, designs, and iconic creations. The museum also highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, a key theme in Ferragamo’s future initiatives, as seen through its efforts in incorporating eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices in its collections.
The Students’ Perspectives
Marketing major Lucrezia Zambusi said: “From the moment we walked in, I was drawn in by the atmosphere of creativity, elegance, and history surrounding us. I enjoyed most seeing the design process up close, watching how a simple concept evolves into a finished product through detailed craftsmanship and innovative thinking. Seeing how much thought and precision goes into every stitch, material choice, and silhouette was terrific. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the artistry behind luxury fashion. I also really enjoyed speaking with the professionals behind the brand. Hearing their stories, their career journeys, and their passion for what they do made the experience so personal and inspiring. I loved learning about the different departments and how they all work together — from the designers and marketers to the merchandisers and product developers. I’m incredibly grateful for this experience, and I’ll carry the inspiration and insights I gained with me as I move forward in my journey.”
“Visiting Ferragamo was an incredible experience that exceeded my expectations. One of the key takeaways from the visit was the importance of innovation in maintaining a legacy of excellence. Ferragamo’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge design has allowed the brand to stay relevant and continue to inspire new generations of fashion enthusiasts. Students were inspired by how the company continuously pushes the boundaries of design, sustainability, and creativity, ensuring that its products remain as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago,” said Communications major minoring in Social Innovation Entrepreneurship Alena Sazonova.
Marketing major and Psychology minor Greta Ficorilli shared: “Visiting the historic Ferragamo headquarters was an incredible experience for me. Stepping into such beautiful and iconic spaces was inspiring – not just for their architectural beauty but also for the rich legacy of craftsmanship and innovation they carry. The museum tour and the precious insights of the tour guide allowed me to reflect deeply on the intersection between heritage and the avant-garde luxury fashion industry. What I especially enjoyed was learning about the revolutionary beauty of Salvatore Ferragamo’s creations, but also how, even as a global leader, the brand still remains true to its artisanal roots. Being in that situation was eye-opening as it reignited my interest in working in the fashion and luxury sector.”
This visit underscored the importance of blending tradition with innovation, showing students how they can contribute to preserving a brand’s legacy while driving forward-thinking change. Overall, the experience reinforced the importance of craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability in shaping the future of the fashion industry. It encouraged students to think creatively, embrace innovation, and pursue excellence in their own careers, no matter what industry they choose to enter.
