Milan, Italy — This April, Milan will host the prestigious International Woolmark Prize, an event celebrating innovative and sustainable fashion. For the first time, the competition will be held in a biennial format, bringing together eight of the world’s most promising designers to showcase their talents and potentially shape the future of the industry.
The panel of judges for this year’s event includes some of the most illustrious names in fashion. Donatella Versace, soon to be Chief Brand Ambassador for Versace, will chair the panel, signaling her new role’s commencement on April 1, 2025. She will be joined by an array of fashion luminaries including IB Kamara, the IWP2025 Guest Artistic Director, and Law Roach, the renowned Image Architect.
Donatella Versace expressed her eagerness for the event, emphasizing the importance of supporting burgeoning fashion talent and celebrating this occasion in Milan, a city synonymous with fashion innovation. Each judge brings a wealth of experience and perspective that is sure to enrich the evaluation process.
The designers vying for the title come from a spectrum of backgrounds, reflecting the global reach and diversity of the competition. They include Act N°1 from Italy, Diotima from the USA, Duran Lantink from the Netherlands, Ester Manas from Belgium, Lgn Louis Gabriel Nouchi from France, Luar from the USA, Meryll Rogge from Belgium, and Standing Ground from the UK/Ireland.
The winner of the International Woolmark Prize will receive AU$300,000 to invest in their business, as well as the opportunity to gain exposure through the International Woolmark Prize Retailer Network, a platform that could potentially launch their global career.
In addition to the main prize, two other awards will be presented. The Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation will honor a brand or individual who has demonstrated significant innovation in the use of Merino wool, while the Supply Chain Award will recognize outstanding leadership and innovation in sustainable practices within the supply chain.
Historically, the International Woolmark Prize has played a significant role in the careers of many iconic designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, and Giorgio Armani, serving as a launchpad for major talent within the fashion industry.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, the emphasis on sustainability and innovation remains paramount. The International Woolmark Prize not only highlights exceptional design talent but also pushes the boundaries of what is possible within the textile industry, setting new standards for the future.
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