Italian fashion and lifestyle influencer Chiara Ferragni was acquitted this week of aggravated fraud charges in the widely followed “Pandorogate” case, in which she was accused of misleading consumers through charity-linked promotions of holiday products. Prosecutors in Milan had argued that Ferragni’s marketing suggested that proceeds from branded pandoro cakes and Easter eggs would fund children’s charities, but a judge ruled there was insufficient evidence to uphold the aggravated fraud charge.
Court Decision and Legal Outcome
A Milan judge dismissed the aggravated fraud allegations against Ferragni, concluding prosecutors did not demonstrate she knowingly committed a criminal offense under Italy’s fraud statutes. The trial, which began after a 2025 indictment, could still be subject to appeal, although prosecutors have not confirmed next steps.
Ferragni, who has tens of millions of followers on Instagram, expressed relief at the verdict, calling it the end of a difficult chapter in her life and career. Her lawyers maintained she acted in good faith throughout the promotional campaigns.
Background of the Pandorogate Controversy
The controversy originated with a 2022 partnership between Ferragni and Italian confectioner Balocco to sell limited-edition pandoro Christmas cakes marketed as charitable fundraising initiatives. Critics and regulators said the campaign implied that higher prices would directly benefit a children’s hospital in Turin, though only a modest donation was ultimately made.
A related promotion involving branded Easter eggs drew similar criticism. Previous administrative actions included a fine of over €1 million by Italy’s antitrust authority and multi-million-euro contributions by Ferragni to charity groups.
Impact on Ferragni’s Brand and Industry Regulation
The scandal damaged Ferragni’s public image and affected her business deals, leading to cancelled partnerships and heightened scrutiny of her influencer activities. It also coincided with personal pressures, including public attention on her marriage.
At the policy level, the case spurred reform in Italy’s approach to influencer marketing, contributing to new regulations aimed at increasing transparency in charitable promotions by social media creators.
