Fashion is an integrated part of the Italy Pavilion, where a recent fashion show featured haute couture gowns by emerging Italian designer Anton Giulio Grande and jewelry by eight traditional goldsmiths from the Calabria region.

Italy Pavilion held its first fashion show on May 24.

On his first visit to China, Grande has brought to Shanghai sensational, aggressive evening gowns lavishly embroidered with gems and laces, in white, black and red. He claims that all his products are completed by hand and even sewing machines are prohibited in his studio.

The jewelry collections are a wise mixture of raw materials, such as ceramic and stone, and precious stones, such as rubies, emeralds, and gold and silver.

"It's not about showcasing 'super luxury' but the traditions of Italians," comments Ernesto Miraglia, curator of the Italy Pavilion. "The Italian lifestyle has always held fascination for Chinese people, and through events like this we'd like to showcase the best of our best.

"Of course, not everyone could afford to drive Ferrari or wear Prada, whether in China or in Italy," he adds, "however, hopefully, by getting in touch with these high-end products at the Italy Pavilion, people will get the idea of what luxury is - and what is the best."