PARIS — This year’s edition of the prestigious French fashion competition ANDAM is set to be guided by Sidney Toledano, the influential figure in the fashion world and former CEO of LVMH Fashion Group and Dior. Toledano, who currently serves as an advisor to LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton Chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault and presides over the Institut Français de la Mode, is set to bring a wealth of experience and insight as he leads the jury for the 36th annual event.
Joining ANDAM’s roster of supporters this year is the fashion label AMI, spearheaded by founder and artistic director Alexandre Mattiussi, himself a previous recipient of ANDAM’s grand prize in 2013. The entry of AMI as a sponsor marks a significant milestone, symbolizing the full-circle journey of a former winner returning to foster new talents in the industry.
Toledano, a founding member of ANDAM, expressed his enthusiasm for his role, noting his commitment to nurturing the future talents of the fashion industry. He articulated his desire to impart his passion and experience to the winners, hoping to effectively contribute to the growth of their creative businesses.
As part of his mentorship, Toledano will offer guidance to this year’s grand prize and special prize winners, assisting them through the creative and strategic facets of their operations. His aim is to help elevate their brands and secure their recognition on a global stage quickly. Nathalie Dufour, the founder and managing director of ANDAM, praised Toledano’s dedication and expertise, anticipating that his guidance will be invaluable to the winners.
The winner of ANDAM’s grand prize will receive an award of 300,000 euros, while the runner-up will be granted 100,000 euros. These significant sums aim to provide substantial financial support to emerging designers, enabling them to scale their businesses and expand their reach in the competitive fashion industry.
Mattiussi will also contribute his expertise, serving as the mentor for the Pierre Bergé Prize, which is dedicated to supporting a French brand with a prize of 100,000 euros and a year of mentorship. His role underscores the narrative of success and community support that defines ANDAM’s mission.
Dufour highlighted the importance of Mattiussi’s return, emphasizing how his exceptional growth and leadership reflect the core values of ANDAM. She noted that his participation sends a powerful message to younger generations about the potential for achievement in the realm of fashion when creativity and ethical leadership converge.
In addition to these prizes, ANDAM recognizes contributions in other areas of fashion such as accessories and technological innovation. This year, French leather goods brand Longchamp will provide resources to the finalists in the accessories category, offering them access to materials needed for their creative processes.
Furthermore, the Innovation Prize is awarded to a tech startup focusing on ecological solutions within the fashion industry. The prize seeks to identify and support advancements in materials, production, distribution, and sustainable practices. Yann Gozlan, founder and president of the Paris-based startup incubator Creative Valley, will mentor the recipient in this category.
The full list of jury members will be announced in February, with the finalists for the prizes revealed in May. The winners are set to be unveiled on June 30, marking another significant chapter in ANDAM’s enduring legacy of promoting excellence and innovation in fashion.
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