Young designers have countless ways to make a mark online in today’s social media era, but nothing compares to meeting fashion’s top leaders in person. That’s the opportunity offered by the LVMH Prize, which connects rising designers with icons like Phoebe Philo, Jonathan Anderson, and Maria Grazia Chiuri. Applications for the 2026 competition are now open.

Over the years, the LVMH Prize has launched the careers of designers such as Simon Porte Jacquemus, Grace Wales Bonner, and Steven Stokey-Daley. As judge Silvia Venturini Fendi noted at last year’s final, “We’re not just buying clothes; we’re supporting people who are sharing a message with the world.” Fellow juror Maria Grazia Chiuri added, “Beyond creativity, it’s about their vision for the future and their brand’s perspective. Each finalist had a unique, personal story behind their work.”

Think you have what it takes to win? Entries for the latest LVMH Prize are being accepted at lvmhprize.com. Designers aged 18 to 40 who have produced at least two collections are eligible to apply. The deadline for submissions is January 11, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and clear FAQs about the LVMH Prize

General Information

1 What is the LVMH Prize
Its a prestigious international fashion award and incubator program for young fashion designers Its main goal is to support the next generation of talent

2 Who organizes the LVMH Prize
It is organized by LVMH Mot Hennessy Louis Vuitton the worlds leading luxury products group

3 Is there a cash prize
Yes The winner of the main prize receives 400000 and a year of bespoke mentorship from the LVMH team

4 Is there a prize for younger designers
Yes The Karl Lagerfeld Prize also awards 200000 and a year of mentorship This prize often recognizes a designer with a very distinct creative identity

Eligibility Application

5 Who can apply for the 2026 LVMH Prize
You can apply if you have produced at least two readytowear womens mens or genderless collections and no more than eight collections You must also be 40 years of age or under

6 Im a solo designer not a team Can I still apply
Absolutely The prize is open to both individual designers and groups of up to two designers

7 When is the application deadline for the 2026 prize
The exact date for 2026 hasnt been announced yet For reference the application window for the previous prize typically opened in midDecember and closed in early February Keep an eye on the official LVMH Prize website for updates

8 How do I apply
You apply exclusively through the online application form on the official LVMH Prize website when the application window is open

9 What do I need for the application
Youll need to provide your personal and company details a biography a description of your creative universe and highquality visuals of your two most recent collections

The Process Judging

10 What happens after I apply
A committee of experts reviews all applications and selects a group of semifinalists These designers are then invited to present their work in Paris during a special showroom event

11 Who are the judges
The