The fashion prizes you can apply for in 2025

Want to expand your brand in 2025? Big and small, global and local – here's a list of fashion competitions worth entering.

As a fashion designer, while expectations tower high, funds can run low. But, as long as creativity has existed, so has patronage. While a fashion prize that requires an application may lack the romance of a Renaissance benefactor the word patron inspires, its support remains essential. Financial backing is just one of the benefits. These initiatives also provide access to industry networks, giving designers a foot in through the proverbial door – not to mention the much-needed validation to persevere in a demanding field.

International Prizes

ANDAM Fashion Award

Martin Margiela won the first of these prizes in 1989. One of the most prestigious competitions supporting emerging fashion designers out there, The Grand Prize winner receives €300,000, mentorship, and development support. Additional prizes include the Creative Label Prize (€100,000), Accessories Prize, and Innovation Prize.

Timeline: Applications open in January and close by the end of March. Winners are announced in June.

More info here: andam.fr

International Woolmark Prize

The Woolmark prize has been awarding designers working with Merino wool for 70 years. Past winners include Yves Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren and Karl Lagerfeld. The winner receives AUD 200,000, while the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation recipient gets AUD 100,000. Plus, there are development funds of AUD $60,000 each. Winners also gain global exposure, professional mentoring, and access to The Wool Lab, Woolmark’s sourcing and trend guide.

Timeline: Applications typically open in late summer (August–September). Winners are announced in the following spring.

More info here: Woolmark Prize