The International Woolmark Prize, a beacon for groundbreaking fashion talent, is back, and the anticipation is palpable. After adopting a biannual schedule in 2023, the prestigious competition has announced its eight finalists for the 2025 edition, a cohort representing a vibrant tapestry of innovative design and global perspectives. These rising stars are poised to redefine the future of the fashion industry.
This year’s finalists are a truly diverse group, reflecting the evolving landscape of modern fashion. They include: Act No 1 (Luca Lin and Galib Gassanoff), Diotima (Rachel Scott), Duran Lantink, Ester Manas (Ester Manas and Balthazar Delepierre), LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi, Luar (Raúl Lopez), Meryll Rogge, and Standing Ground (Michael Stewart). Each designer brings a unique approach and vision, promising a compelling competition and a refreshing showcase of talent.
Guest Artistic Director Ib Kamara eloquently captured the essence of this year’s selection: “This year’s cohort is a diverse group of creatives—which is so important for the future of fashion and the industry in general. Being from different countries, backgrounds, and disciplines means that we will have a very global take on fashion. I hope they will bring their own culture and perspectives to this year’s prize and allow us a glimpse into their worlds.” This global perspective is critical, underscoring the prize’s commitment to inclusivity and representing a truly international voice within the fashion world.
The stakes are high. Each finalist will receive AU$60,000 (approximately $39,000 USD) to create and develop a small collection using Merino wool. They will also benefit from invaluable mentorship from industry giants, including Tim Blanks (Business of Fashion), Sinéad Burke (Tilting the Lens), Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Roopal Patel (Saks), and Sara Sozzani Maino (Sozzani Foundation). This unparalleled support system will be instrumental in guiding these emerging designers towards success.
The ultimate prize? A staggering AU$300,000 (approximately $195,000 USD) to invest in their burgeoning businesses. This substantial award highlights the Woolmark Prize’s commitment to nurturing and fostering the growth of exceptional talent. Furthermore, the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation has been expanded to encompass any member of the fashion industry, reflecting a broader recognition of innovative contributions across the sector.
Innovation is the cornerstone of the Woolmark Prize, and this year’s finalists embody this spirit. Their innovative approaches span diverse aspects of design and business practices. Rachel Scott of Diotima focuses on refining her understanding of craft and textile manipulation; Ester Manas champions inclusivity and sustainability by redefining size and fabric usage; Duran Lantink reimagines the possibilities of upcycling and reconstructing existing garments; Raúl Lopez of Luar pushes boundaries by blending cultural references, streetwear, and luxury; and Louis Gabriel Nouchi emphasizes sincerity in his innovative designs. Act No 1’s Luca Lin and Galib Gassanoff view innovation as an ongoing process of transformation and evolution.
Joining this prestigious competition places these designers alongside a remarkable alumni network, including A. Roege Hove, Lagos Space Programme, Gabriela Hearst, Rahul Mishra, Bode, Saul Nash, and legendary figures like Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino Garavani. The legacy of the Woolmark Prize is evident in the success of its past winners, providing inspiration and validation for this year’s finalists.
As Meryll Rogge aptly states, “I remember seeing our fellow Belgian Christian Wijnants win the prize a decade ago and feeling inspired by his achievement. To now be recognized ourselves feels surreal and motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the International Woolmark Prize – a celebration of talent, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence within the fashion industry.
