Fashion’s Oscars, and the prizes that launch young designers.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 15 November 2026
What are the big awards ceremonies?
The CFDA Fashion Awards in New York, held since 1981, honour American designers and give special awards such as Fashion Icon. In London, the British Fashion Council’s The Fashion Awards celebrate British and international talent; the 2026 ceremony is on 30 November at the Royal Albert Hall. Both are as much red-carpet events as industry prizes.
What is the LVMH Prize?
Launched by LVMH in 2013 for designers under 40, it gives the winner a large cash grant and a year of mentoring from the group’s experts. Judges include the group’s creative directors. Finalists and winners have gone on to lead major houses, and simply being shortlisted can put a young label on buyers’ radars.
What are ANDAM and Hyères?
ANDAM, founded in France in 1989, is a prize for emerging designers backed by the French state and the industry; its first winner was Martin Margiela. The Hyères International Festival of Fashion and Photography, held in the south of France since 1986, has been an early stage for many designers, including Viktor & Rolf.
What is the Woolmark Prize?
A prize for designs using merino wool, first awarded in 1954, when two young designers, Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent, won the coat and dress categories. Relaunched as the International Woolmark Prize, it still supports new designers. For more on talent schemes, see who runs fashion.
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