The 17th edition of the International Talent Support (ITS) competition held in Trieste, Italy in 2019 brought together a diverse group of emerging designers from around the world. This year’s competition stood out for its strong representation from Asian designers and a notable emphasis on sustainability in fashion.
One of the standout winners of the competition was Daoyuan Ding, a 28-year-old designer from China, who took home the coveted ITS Award sponsored by Allianz. His collection impressed the jury with its masterful reinterpretation of classic men’s clothing, featuring oversized suits, versatile garment combinations, and abstract prints inspired by iconic filmmakers.
Having studied in fashion capitals like Milan and Tokyo, Ding shared his aspirations of launching his own label within the next five years, marking his win at ITS as a significant achievement in his promising career.
Another noteworthy designer recognized at the competition was Annaliese Griffith-Jones from Australia, who received the OTB Prize for her exceptional creativity and technical skills. The OTB fashion group, led by Renzo Rosso, also honored talents like Swiss designer Rafael Kouto, known for his fusion of African weaving techniques and contemporary streetwear.
The theme of sustainability was a key focus at ITS 2019, with a new prize introduced for sustainable development in fashion. US jewellery designer Corrina Goutos was lauded for her innovative use of recycled materials and organic elements in her creations, showcasing a unique blend of industrial and natural aesthetics.
Marie-Claire Daveu, a member of the ITS jury, highlighted the growing trend of sustainability among emerging designers, signaling a positive shift towards environmentally-conscious practices in the fashion industry. The ITS competition continues to provide a platform for young talents to showcase their dedication to sustainable fashion and groundbreaking design.
For more information on the International Talent Support competition and emerging designers, visit ITS official website. To learn about sustainable fashion initiatives and the impact of environmental protection in the industry, visit Global Fashion Agenda.
