The semi-finalists for the 2025 LVMH Prize represent an exciting selection of emerging designers from fifteen countries, reflecting the increasingly global reach of the competition. For the first time since the Prize’s inception, candidates from Egypt, Ghana and Saudi Arabia are among the selected talents, bringing fresh creative perspectives to the international fashion spotlight.
This year, more than 2,300 applications were submitted for consideration, underscoring the continued appeal and importance of the award. Delphine Arnault, CEO of Christian Dior, paid tribute to these up-and-coming designers, saying, “As the LVMH Prize steps into a new decade, it is my honour once more to welcome some exceptional talents.”
Several notable design trends emerged among the semifinalists. Arnault highlighted a renewed focus on refined tailoring, meticulous hand embellishment and striking occasion wear. Experimentation with aesthetic detailing and sustainable craftsmanship also feature prominently, in line with current consumer priorities and industry movements toward ethical production.
The semi-finalists presented their collections in Paris on March 5th and 6th, 2025, to an audience that included the LVMH Prize’s expert jury of over 80 fashion professionals. The event is also open to the public, who can vote online from March 5th to 9th at lvmhprize.com to help select the eight finalists.
This year’s semifinalists include two returning brands: Lebanon’s Renaissance Renaissance, which previously participated in 2021, and Japan’s Soshiotsuki, which competed in 2016.
The remaining 18 designers selected include Alainpaul (France); Boyedoe (Ghana); Francesco Murano (Italy); KML (Saudi Arabia); Yasmin Mansour (Egypt); Josh Tafoya, Meruert Tolegen (United States); Penultimate (China); Mfpen, Nicklas Skovgaarde (Denmark), Sinead O’Dwyer (Ireland), Steve O Smith, Tolu Coker, Torisheju (United Kingdom), Young N Sang (South Korea); Zomer (Netherlands); Pillings (Japan) and All-In (United States/Norway).
The eventual winner of the LVMH Prize 2025 will receive a €400,000 EUR grant and a one-year mentorship program with an experienced LVMH team. In addition, the Karl Lagerfeld Prize, which focuses on creative innovation, will award €200,000 EUR and mentorship support. The Savoir-Faire Prize, now in its second year, recognizes exceptional craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability, and offers €200,000 EUR and professional mentorship.
Three fashion school graduates will also benefit from the LVMH Prize initiative. Each will receive €10,000 EUR and a one-year internship in the design studio of an LVMH brand. Applications for this special category will remain open until March 30th, 2025.
