Nothing is more powerful than an independent project that continues to grow without losing its radical spirit. LAUD END PRAUD proved exactly that during its sixth edition, Queer Cosmo, held on June 20 at BASE Milano.
Conceived by Andrea Semeghini through VANADIO23, the event reimagined astrology not as a tool for prediction, but as a symbolic language to explore identity, freedom and human connection. The concept challenged the idea of a single center or a single way of being, embracing instead a universe where bodies, identities and relationships move freely, just like celestial bodies.
The afternoon opened with a talk featuring Le Cosmiche, philosopher and performer Lorenzo Cattel, and researcher Arianna Jakubowski, who reflected on astrology, tarot and new narratives of identity. Chora Media and Francesco Zaffarano followed with a live edition of Ossigeno, the positive-news segment from the podcast Sei e 30, offering an optimistic perspective on the future.
The highlight of the day was the runway show, where eight designers each interpreted a planet in the Solar System through their collections.
Mercury was explored by four recent IED graduates—Filippo Sansalone, Teresa Giannattasio, Luca Togni and Aurora Perinelli—who translated the planet’s harsh environment into garments reflecting vulnerability, transformation and the LGBTQ+ experience. Venus was interpreted by Pecora Nera, the Milan-based collective known for reinventing knitwear through craftsmanship and technology.
Earth was represented by Venerdì Pomeriggio, the new project by Vivetta Ponti, while Mars came to life through BERGIE, Giorgia Andreazza’s label combining tailoring, innovation and sustainable design. Jupiter belonged to Be Nina by Sabrina Bonatesta, whose dreamlike aesthetic blends Italian heritage with upcycling.
Saturn was interpreted by MOJA ROWA, founded by Yelena Mojarova and Benedikt Sitter, while Uranus was represented by VIENMNSUONNO1926, the project by Massimo Parisi and Annalia De Falco celebrating Neapolitan craftsmanship. Neptune closed the journey with Simon Cracker, Simone Botte’s brand dedicated to transforming discarded garments into one-of-a-kind creations.
The show was styled by Roberta Astarita, with casting by PWC Milano, a soundtrack by Plastikdoll and Manuela Bagnato, and make-up by MAC Cosmetics, which partnered with the event for the first time. The evening concluded with Gran Varietà, hosted by Elisa Marinoni, followed by music and celebrations.
More than a fashion show, LAUD END PRAUD once again demonstrated how creativity can become a platform for activism. After the runway, all looks were auctioned at Fondazione Sozzani, with the proceeds donated to the Sportello Trans of ALA Milano Onlus, supporting the transgender community.
By bringing together fashion, performance and social engagement, LAUD END PRAUD confirmed its role as a space where creativity and inclusivity continue to evolve together.
