Though it’s only in its third year, the LVMH prize (and its €300,000 cash award) has already acted as a catalyst for the careers of previous winners Thomas Tait and Marques’Almeida. Now, the list of 23 nominees has been whittled down to just eight finalists, who will be judged by an elite jury that includes J.W. Anderson, Riccardo Tisci and Marc Jacobs.
Among this year’s finalists are Dazed 100 stars Grace Wales Bonner and Vejas, both celebrated for their unconventional yet groundbreaking work. Along with her elegant and exquisite menswear, Wales Bonner is praised for how she delicately and poetically explores the portrays of black masculinity in her work. Vejas Kruszewski on the other hand, is acclaimed for his futuristic, genderless designs, as well as his complex cuts, thought-provoking presentations and diverse cast of models.
The global nature of contemporary fashion is represented by the selection of Finnish brand Aalto International and Tokyo’s Facetasm, as well as French fashion house Koche and Y/Project, the label headed up by Belgian designer Glenn Martens. One other recognisable name on the final list is Brandon Maxwell, Lady Gaga’s current stylist and the designer behind her tux-gown hybrid that stole the show at this year’s Oscars. L.A. label Alyx rounds off the overall line-up; the brainchild of renowned creative director Matthew Williams, recently spotlighted by Dazed.
Vote for Grace Wales Bonner in the Dazed 100 here and for Vejas here.
