My first memory of Ivana Conte is of a beautiful, soulful young lady wearing a striking black vest – a piece so stunning it inspired me to base my first collection around its design. That initial meeting left a lasting impression, and from that point on, Ivana became an essential guide in helping me discover my voice as a designer. She played a pivotal role in teaching me to listen to my instincts, recognize my unique strengths, and cultivate my skills. She encouraged me in my very first steps to embrace my talents and shape my creative vision. To this day, I am deeply grateful to Ivana for helping me develop my own style and identity. Ivana is the only teacher with whom I’ve stayed in touch for over 16 years, and I still turn to her for career advice. Her guidance has been invaluable in helping me grow both as a designer and as an individual, and I am forever grateful for that. Having a mentor who has known you from the very beginning and understands your full potential is invaluable. She has helped me approach new projects not with fear, but with an open mind and heart.

Ivana an exceptional teacher and also a wonderful human being. Her kindness and genuine concern for her students make her a rare gem in today’s educational platform. Her personal attention and mentorship guides us into the real world of design with kindness, yet without hand-holding, ensuring we are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. In summary, iLa Academy provides a fantastic educational experience, blending history, technology, and compassionate mentorship to prepare students for successful careers in fashion design.

The mentorship project was an incredibly enriching and transformative experience. What set this program apart was the ability of iLa Academy to pinpoint luxury brands where my work could be a strong fit and to tailor a project specifically to meet their needs—something that had been missing in my previous design education.

The flexibility of the course structure was another huge advantage, allowing me to balance the mentorship alongside my part-time jobs and freelance projects without feeling overwhelmed.

This experience has not only refined my skills but has also given me the clarity and confidence to position myself in the industry with a more strategic and purposeful approach.

My name is Zoja Muhič, and I am pursuing a Master’s in Fashion Design and Management at the International Luxury Academy (ILA). As a young designer from Slovenia living in Rome, I have gained a variety of experiences as a fashion student over the years and have learned the importance of continually seeking different and better ways to teach and create fashion. ILA exemplifies a new approach to studying fashion, preparing each individual to become a creative professional equipped with knowledge and real-world experience, all while preserving the art, craft, and their identity as a designer. 

The dedicated team of professors encourages you to give your best and share their industry expertise as both professionals and mentors. ILA has provided me with a fresh perspective on my fashion journey, emphasizing the quality of content that encompasses all facets of the field. I genuinely believe that being part of ILA will shape my success and boost my confidence as I transition from student to designer, helping me reach my highest career ambitions. 

Thank you! 

Studying at the International Luxury Academy has allowed me to learn in a more personal and meaningful way. The program not only gave me powerful insights into the fashion industry but also connected me with professionals who are essential to understanding its processes. I feel proud to be part of ILA’s story, as the Academy works hard to support each student in developing their own creative path. Joining the curriculum has given me the chance to gain new knowledge, sharpen my skills, and explore how heritage, sustainability, innovation, and creativity can come together. 

An incredible, fast-paced journey into the world of fashion! This course removed the intimidation of the

“blank page” and replaced it with practical illustration techniques and design thinking. Perfect for anyone looking to bridge the gap between a creative idea and a professional fashion portfolio.

Highly recommended for designers who want to seriously enter the fashion world!