Filigrana walks the runway at ModaLisboa for the first time
The presentation took place at Pátio da Galé on March 13, through a collection created by designer Francisca Nabinho for Joalharia do Carmo, which pushed the boundaries of this centuries-old tradition by transporting it into an unexpected territory: that of contemporary fashion.
Francisca Nabinho’s light and irreverent presentation was one of the most talked-about moments of this edition of ModaLisboa, and Joalharia do Carmo made its mark by bringing to the runway one of the most emblematic techniques of Portuguese jewellery: Filigrana.
Known for the delicacy of gold and silver worked into extremely fine threads, Filigrana is an art that demands time, precision, and mastery passed down through generations. Each piece is born from the hands of specialized artisans, in an entirely manual process that keeps alive one of the most singular expressions of Portuguese jewellery. It was precisely this meeting between tradition and experimentation that defined the show.
For this presentation, unusual pieces were created, conceived not merely as items of personal adornment, but as objects of creative expression. Among the highlights were hairpins, masks, headbands, tiaras, and bags, in bold compositions that revealed the sculptural potential of Filigrana when placed within a contemporary context. Beyond the runway, the pieces were also worn by several public figures attending the show, including Bárbara Branco, Joana de Verona, Vera Moura, and Sofia Barbosa.
All pieces were entirely handcrafted by Portuguese artisans, preserving the traditional techniques that make Filigrana de Portugal Certificada one of the most distinctive heritages of national goldsmithing.
The audience’s reception confirmed the impact of the collection. Before an audience of hundreds, the pieces were met with enthusiasm, demonstrating how a technique with centuries of history can continue to surprise when reinterpreted through new creative languages.
With this collection, Francisca Nabinho will begin an ongoing collaboration with Joalharia do Carmo, bringing new readings and approaches to the universe of Filigrana de Portugal Certificada. This partnership opens a new chapter for traditional Portuguese jewellery: to show that what is made by hand, with time and knowledge, still has a place—and a future—on the great stages of contemporary creation