44 fa$hion prizes you should apply for this year
Money, yes, but also mentorship, networking and presentation opportunities.
By Wonne Scrayen
You know the drill. A new year, a renewed sense of ambition, purpose, intention, clarity, vision – now you just need a little bit of infrastructure and maybe €300,000. Here are 27 awards/prizes, both international and local, that could help an emerging designer or student realise their full potential in 2026.
In the coming days we’ll also be publishing a list of open days, academic applications, open calls, residencies/incubator programmes, funding/grants/sponsorships, mentorships and the upcoming fashion week schedule for 2026.
LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers (internationally)
The big dog. Open to all designers aged 18 to 40 who have produced at least two ready-to-wear collections across any category, the LVMH Prize winner receives €400,000 and one year of mentorship from a team of LVMH experts. The winner of the Karl Lagerfeld Prize receives €200,000 as well as a one-year expert mentorship. The same package is awarded to the winner of the Savoir-Faire Prize, focused on craftsmanship, technical innovation, and sustainability. Additionally, there is a separate LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Graduates, which distinguishes three young fashion school graduates. Each winner and their school receive €10,000 and a one-year fixed contract in a creative studio of a major LVMH house.
Deadline: Young Fashion Designers have until January 11 (23:59 CET) to submit their applications. For Young Fashion Graduates, the deadline is 5 April 2026, 23:59 CET.
ANDAM Fashion Award (internationally)
One of the most prestigious competitions supporting emerging fashion designers since 1989. Won in 2025 by Meryll Rogge, who has since been appointed new creative director at Marni. This contest holds the possibility of being career-changing, with four category-specific awards to apply for, with cash prizes typically ranging from €100,000 to €300,000.
Timeline: Applications typically open in January and close by the end of March. Winners are announced in June.
International Woolmark Prize (internationally)
The Woolmark Prize has been foundational in fashion history, with some of the most renowned names such as Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld taking their first steps there. All finalists receive a financial contribution for the development of their business and capsule collection. Additionally, they also have the opportunity to have their collections stocked in leading retailers and become part of the prestigious Alumni Program. The winner of the International Woolmark Prize will be awarded AUD 300,000.
Timeline: Applications for the 2027 International Woolmark Prize will open in early 2026.
Hyères International Festival of Fashion and Photography (internationally)
Next year will mark the 41st edition of the Hyères Festival. Divided into three categories – fashion, photography, and accessories – each competition will feature ten finalists. Villa Noailles forms the backdrop for this established competition, where all finalists’ work will be open to the public for several months. The professional days provide all participants with the opportunity to connect with industry professionals from across all areas.
Deadline: 31 January 2026
Redress Design Award (internationally)
The world’s leading sustainable fashion competition, spotlighting circular design principles and reducing environmental impact. Designers get a global stage to showcase their work in Hong Kong and a cash prize from a pool of HK$80,000. Aside from the first-prize and runner-up chosen by the jury, one designer also receives a People’s Choice award.
Timeline: Applications typically open in January and close in March.
ITS Contest (internationally)
Since its foundation in 2002, ITS has become one of the most influential awards for emerging designers in fashion, accessories, and jewellery. The ITS Contest rewards selected designers with financial support (€10,000 for the winner) and access to a network of mentorships, further career opportunities, and a chance to see their work exhibited. What sets ITS apart from other awards is its complementary residency program in Italy.
Timeline: Applications for 2026 were wrapped up earlier in 2025. Keep an eye out for the 2027 edition. Entry requirements are usually shared around July, before applications open in September.