Applications open for 2021 International Woolmark Prize

Entry to participate in the International Woolmark Prize is available to any brand worldwide who meets the application criteria. All applications will be reviewed by an Advisory Council of industry experts, committed to discovering and nurturing outstanding achievers in fashion.

The Advisory Council will look for designers in the early stages of their career who have shown promise and dedication in growing a sustainable business, though are yet to be established in a global sense. Ten finalists from any country across the world will be chosen to participate in the final event in early 2021.

Each finalist will receive AU$70,000 to develop a capsule collection which highlights the innate versatility, innovative nature and eco-credentials of Merino wool. Finalists will take part in The Woolmark Company’s Innovation Academy, a robust 18-month education and mentoring programme, offering access to International Woolmark Prize partners and advisors supporting product development, research and development, business and sustainability strategies to assist in the development of their collections and brands.

To apply, participants must have been producing commercially available apparel for a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 8 years (at the time of submitting an application). He/she should have consistent experience in working with and promoting best practice across apparel supply chains, show a yearly growth in sales and demonstrate an innovative use of fabrics and textiles. The total combined prize fund for the 2021 International Woolmark Prize stands at AU$1 million, with the overall winner awarded AU$200,000, and the winner of the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation being awarded an additional prize fund of AU$100,000.

Winners and finalists will also have the opportunity to have their Merino wool capsule collections commercialised and sold in the world’s top boutiques and department stores through the International Woolmark Prize’s extensive Retail Partner Network.

“Now more than ever we need a reason to celebrate and give hope to independent designers in a way which breaks down cultures and borders to unite us as one,” said The Woolmark Company managing director Stuart McCullough. “Online applications ensure the International Woolmark Prize has the potential to benefit designers from every corner of the globe. We also thank the continued support of the International Woolmark Prize nominating bodies who play a valuable role in connecting the best emerging design talent with the prize.”

The Woolmark Company is the global authority on wool. Through its extensive network of relationships spanning the international textile and fashion industries, it highlights Australian wool’s position as the ultimate natural fibre and premier ingredient in luxury apparel.

The Woolmark logo is one of the world’s most recognised and respected brands, providing assurance of the highest quality, and representing pioneering excellence and innovation from farm through to finished product.

The Woolmark Company is a subsidiary of Australian Wool Innovation, a not-for-profit enterprise that conducts research, development and marketing along the worldwide supply chain for Australian wool on behalf of about 60,000 woolgrowers that help fund the company.     

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (PC)