Dhaka, Sept. 28 -- Haitian designer Stella Jean made a striking return to the Milan runway on Saturday after a three-year hiatus, showcasing a collection crafted with Bhutanese artisans and appealing for stronger political support to preserve the world's dwindling artisan class.

"I said I would come back when I had something to say," Jean told reporters backstage.

Appeal for artisans

Jean, known for blending Italian tailoring with textiles and artistry from global artisans, stressed that Italian craftsmanship is at risk as fewer young people are entering the trade. She urged lawmakers to extend the same fiscal benefits recently granted to artworks to fine craftsmanship.

Such support, Jean said, would allow consumers to pay less value-...