The LVMH Prize, renowned for being one of the most prestigious honors in the fashion industry, has revealed the 20 semi-finalists for its upcoming edition. In an unprecedented move, the semi-final will be held on a digital platform, breaking away from the traditional in-person format. What makes this year’s semi-final particularly special is that it will provide the public with an opportunity to participate in the voting process. The public’s vote will count as one expert opinion in the final decision-making.
From April 6 to April 11, the semi-finalists will showcase their collections on the lvmhprize.com website, enabling the general public to view their designs and cast their votes. This shift in format reflects LVMH’s commitment to democratizing the fashion industry and giving a platform to a wider audience.
The semi-final round is primarily judged by a panel of about 50 industry experts, including editors, models, retailers, and educators. This year, the Expert Committee has been joined by six notable figures, one of whom is tennis champion Naomi Osaka, who has also been designated as the ambassador for this edition.
The semi-finalists were handpicked from an impressive pool of 1,900 applicants hailing from 110 countries, demonstrating the global interest and appeal of the LVMH Prize. The 20 talented hopefuls represent 12 different nations, including Albania and Colombia for the first time. They encompass both established designers and emerging talent, with their base locations spanning fashion capitals such as Paris, London, New York, Shanghai, and Tokyo.
These semi-finalists have demonstrated a responsible and sustainable stance in their creative vision, incorporating innovative materials, upcycling, recycled fibers, artisanal techniques, and local approaches. Their commitment to sustainability aligns with the industry-wide shift towards ethical practices.
Following the exhibition period from April 6 to April 11, the 20 semi-finalists will be further narrowed down to just eight finalists. These finalists will then have the opportunity to present their collections in person to a final jury consisting of senior designers within LVMH and top executives. The date for the final event and the announcement of the winners is yet to be determined due to the ongoing pandemic.
The LVMH Prize grants five coveted awards, including a €300,000 endowment and a one-year mentorship program for the winner. Additionally, a special jury prize named after the late Karl Lagerfeld is also bestowed. Furthermore, three prizes are dedicated to recent fashion school graduates, providing financial support and an opportunity to join the creative studio of an LVMH house for a year.
The LVMH Prize remains an essential platform for young fashion designers, offering unparalleled recognition and support from one of the world’s leading luxury goods conglomerates. With the inclusion of the public’s vote this year, the upcoming edition promises to be an even more exciting and engaging event, allowing a broader audience to partake in shaping the future of fashion.
To learn more about the LVMH Prize and this year’s semi-finalists, visit the official website: https://www.lvmhprize.com.
