Meet the eight designers selected for the 2023 edition of the International Woolmark Prize. These 8 brands represent the next generation of creative game-changers, destined to design fashion for a better tomorrow whilst highlighting the beauty, versatility and eco-credentials of Merino wool.
A. ROEGE HOVE
A. ROEGE HOVE
“Being a finalist in the International Woolmark Prize is a unique opportunity to do what I love: challenge the expectations of knitwear - investigating, experimenting and innovating. It’s definitely the biggest moment for the brand so far.”
Bluemarble
Bluemarble
It is such an honour to have been selected as a finalist for the International Woolmark Prize. Being nominated allows Bluemarble to be recognized but winning the IWP would mean so much.
Lagos Space Programme
Lagos Space Programme
“It’s a major honour to be selected as a finalist for the 2023 International Woolmark Prize. Winning the IWP would not only be a personal triumph but also one that validates knowledge systems, cultural idioms and ancient craftsmanship that has hitherto been overlooked from a global perspective.”
Marco Rambaldi
Marco Rambaldi
“We are very happy; this news definitely comes at the right time. Knitwear for us is the fundamental way to express what we feel, it is the core of all collections. It is really nice to have recognition after years of work and experimentation.”
MAXXIJ
MAXXIJ
“I’m thrilled to be part of this great opportunity. It will be a tremendous significance for me. Winning IWP will be a great honour and an opportunity to unleash the MAXXIJ’s imagination and creativity to the world.”
Paolina Russo
Paolina Russo
“The support IWP provides is incomparable to any other fashion prize when it comes to innovation. It is a unique opportunity that will allow us to push our work towards new pathways, ideas, and techniques in the realm of wool. We are thrilled and grateful.”
R H U D E
R H U D E
“I am honoured to be selected as one of the finalists. Besides artistic freedom and the evolution of design and business, the recognition of honourable establishments such as Woolmark is very rewarding. To me, this stands as a symbol of hope for my peers and that young boy in me that always dreamed to be a part of the prize.”
ROBYN LYNCH
ROBYN LYNCH
“It is a huge honour to be selected as a finalist for the Woolmark Prize. I have been hoping to one day have the chance to compete in this competition ever since the days I was an intern working with previous finalists. To have the chance to learn from industry experts and present my brand to the judging panel is a dream come true.”
IWP 2023: Dialogue
This year’s theme – Dialogue – represents both an important element in the creative process and acts as a letter both to, and for, the next generation. The theme reflects The Woolmark Company’s mission to establish dialogue and connect leading design talent with industry players to collectively envision a more sustainable future.
The eight finalists will each develop six Merino wool looks as part of their Autumns/Winter 2023 collection, or a standalone IWP2023 capsule collection which highlights the innate versatility, innovative nature and eco-credentials of Merino wool.
One finalist will be awarded the International Woolmark Prize and receive AU$200,000 to invest in the development of their business. The Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation will be awarded to another finalist, with the winner receiving AU$100,000. The Woolmark Supply Chain Award will also be presented, celebrating outstanding contribution from a trade partner driving wool supply chain innovation.
All finalists will have the opportunity to be stocked at some of the world’s leading stores, via the International Woolmark Prize Retailer Network.
This year’s International Woolmark Prize finalists join an impressive alumni network including Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino Garavani, Gabriela Hearst, Rahul Mishra, BODE, Matty Bovan and, most recently, Saul Nash.
