Applications open for evolved Woolmark Prize

Applications have just opened for one of the key emerging-talent-focused prizes, the International Woolmark Prize, with Woolmark saying the contest is “evolving to future-proof fashion”.

In its 71st year, the award programme, “which aims to empower emerging designers through education, financial investment, and industry support to harness the potential of wool within their collections”, has a number of updates.

It’s now been extended to a two-year programme, “providing designers with more time to focus on innovation – encouraging a test, trial, learn, and improve design philosophy”.

And in an unsurprising move given the importance of the subject, the judging criteria “will have an enhanced focus on sustainability and innovation”.

The winner will also receive an increased prize fund of A$300,000, “providing them with the financial support needed to bring their ideas to life”.

And the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation is being expanded to an industry award that will go “to any brand within the fashion industry that has pushed the boundaries of Merino wool innovation”.

Woolmark said the changes all make sense given its commitment to supporting young talent. MD John Roberts added: “To do this effectively, designers need more financial support, better access to sustainable materials and time to innovate with the latest technology. Our revised programme aligns more closely with the evolving needs of the industry.” 

So what happens now? Designers globally who meet the criteria are invited to apply for prize until  30 June, after which an Advisory Council of industry experts will work with Woolmark to select finalists “that prioritise and champion inclusivity, innovation and fresh perspectives”.

That Council includes key names such as designer Gabriela Hearst; Janet Wang, Head of TMall Luxury Pavilion; Livia Firth, Founder and Chief Agitator Officer, Eco Age; and Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director, Fondazione Sozzani.

Previous winners of the prize (including when it was divided into a menswear and womenswear award) include Lagos Space Programme, Saul Nash, Matty Bovan, Richard Malone, Edward Crutchley, Matthew Miller, Cottweiler, Gabriela Hearst, Suket Dhir, Teatum Jones, Public School, M.Patmos, Rahul Mishra, Christian Wijnants and back in the 1950s, Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent.