The highly anticipated LVMH Prize, a renowned competition that celebrates the talent of young designers, is making a comeback for its eighth edition following a disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Last year’s final event had to be called off, resulting in all eight finalists being acknowledged rather than a single winner being selected. Nevertheless, the prestigious competition, spearheaded by the renowned French luxury conglomerate LVMH, has officially opened applications for its upcoming edition.
In an official statement, it was revealed that the semi-final will take place virtually from April 6 to April 11, 2021, in light of the ongoing global health crisis. This digital platform will allow international experts to assess and pick the standout collections presented by the competing designers vying for the coveted LVMH Prize. This online format mirrors the approach taken by various fashion competitions, such as the ITS competition in Trieste which adopted a similar virtual model in 2020.
Aspiring designers keen on participating can submit their applications exclusively through the dedicated lvmhprize.com website. The eligibility criteria state that designers under the age of 40 who have crafted a minimum of two collections in womenswear, menswear, or gender-neutral fashion are invited to compete.
The winner of the LVMH Prize will secure a substantial cash award of 300,000 euros, while the recipient of the Karl Lagerfeld Prize will be granted 150,000 euros. Both winners are set to benefit from a year-long mentorship program provided by LVMH’s seasoned teams. Furthermore, the luxury powerhouse will bestow prizes upon three talented graduates from fashion schools.
Over the years, the LVMH Prize has proven instrumental in propelling the careers of numerous celebrated designers who have gone on to showcase their artistry on the grand stages of Paris and London’s fashion weeks. Notable past winners and recipients of special prizes include Thebe Magugu, Marine Serre, Jacquemus, Rokh, Grace Wales Bonner, and Marques’Almeida.
In 2020, the LVMH Prize extended its support to the eight finalists by offering mentorship and an award of 40,000 euros each. Additionally, the competition established a special fund to aid previous winners in overcoming the economic adversities brought about by the pandemic.
All in all, the LVMH Prize stands as a beacon for emerging talent within the fashion industry, providing a valuable platform for young designers to showcase their ingenuity and originality on a global scale.
To apply for the LVMH Prize, visit lvmhprize.com.
For more information on the prestigious LVMH luxury conglomerate, please refer to lvmh.com.
