In an effort to rejuvenate and elevate the prestigious Woolmark Prize, the esteemed award has recently undergone a transformation with the restructuring of its Advisory Council for the upcoming 2020 prize. The goal is to attract more attention and recognition within the fashion industry, especially in light of fierce competition from other awards that have dominated the media spotlight in recent years.
The newly revamped Advisory Council boasts a lineup of 16 influential members, including renowned personalities such as designer Manish Arora, sustainability advocate Livia Firth, fashion consultant Floriane de Saint Pierre, photographer Fabien Montique, journalist Sarah Mower, and fashion stylist Kate Young, among others. This diverse and distinguished group brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the table, aiming to steer the Woolmark Prize towards new heights of innovation and success.
Since its inception in 1953, the Woolmark Prize has served as a launchpad for aspiring designers to showcase their talent and creativity on a global stage. Past winners of the award, such as Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld, have gone on to achieve worldwide acclaim and recognition. Revived in 2012 by the Woolmark Company, the prize continues to champion innovative design and sustainability, with a focus on promoting the use of Australian Merino wool.
The Advisory Council’s main responsibility is to sift through hundreds of applications from designers representing 50 different countries, ultimately selecting the top 10 finalists for the upcoming prize. Despite facing tough competition, the Woolmark Prize remains highly esteemed in the fashion world, offering a generous cash prize of around $200,000 to the winner.
With its rich history and legacy of nurturing emerging talent, the Woolmark Prize remains a coveted award for designers who are eager to push boundaries and explore the endless possibilities of Australian Merino wool in sustainable and creative ways. The revamped Advisory Council is poised to breathe new life into this iconic award, ensuring its continued relevance and impact in the ever-changing landscape of the fashion industry.
To learn more about the Woolmark Prize and its Advisory Council, visit their official website here. For updates and news on the latest fashion trends and developments, be sure to check out leading fashion publications like Vogue here.
