The International Woolmark Prize Announces 2022 Finalists
The seven finalists compete for two prizes the International Woolmark Prize and the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation, and the winners will be selected in April 2022.
The prestigious International Woolmark Prize recognizes emerging fashion talent from around the globe, with a focus on sustainable solutions and innovation in design. For the 2022 edition, American designer Peter Do, Chinese label Rui, South African brand Mmusomaxwell, French label Egonlab, Australian designer Jordan Dalah, and Ahluwalia and Saul Nash from the UK have been selected as finalists.
The seven designers each receive a grant to create a Fall/Winter 2022 Merino collection for which they are to create a sustainability roadmap and transparent supply chain. The finalists also have access to mentoring and support from the Woolmark Company's Innovation Academy, which includes industry leaders such as stylist and editor Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Business of Fashion Editor-at-Large Tim Blanks, Farfetch Chief Brand Officer Holli Rogers, and more.
This year, the designers are to interpret the theme of "play" in their collections, whether through the textiles, designs, or progressive business practices. All of the contestants will also have the opportunity to have their collections produced and stocked at leading retail stores through the International Woolmark Prize Retailer Network.
The finalists compete not only for the 2022 International Woolmark Prize, but also the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation. The former awards $144,000 for the winner to invest in their business, while the latter awards $72,000. An additional prize, the Woolmark Supply Chain Award, will also be presented. The winners will be selected in April 2022 by a panel of esteemed industry insiders.
“As the award continues to evolve, our aim is to support designers to think beyond today, highlighting the innovation, versatility and sustainability of Merino wool and showcase its basis for new technologies to meet the discerning needs of tomorrow’s customer,” The Woolmark Company CEO John Roberts said.
The Woolmark Company introduced the prize in 1936 to highlight how the material can be used in the luxury market. Previous participants in the competition include Karl Lagerfeld, Yves
Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren, Gabriela Hearst, and Matty Bovan.
