Julie Kegels Wins 2026 LVMH Prize Grand Award

Belgian designer Julie Kegels, founder of her namesake womenswear brand, was awarded the Grand Prize at the 13th edition of the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers on September 4, 2026. At 27 years old, Kegels' multi-faceted, contemporary wardrobe, which champions individuality, impressed a distinguished jury of twelve creative directors and a special guest jury member. The LVMH Prize includes a €400,000 EUR endowment, equivalent to approximately $464,548 USD, and one year of tailored mentorship from LVMH experts. Additionally, she will receive a €20,000 EUR allowance, approximately $23,227 USD, from Nona Source, a platform that upcycles deadstock materials from LVMH's fashion houses. Actress Jennifer Lawrence presented the award, highlighting Kegels as a significant emerging talent in European fashion.

The Karl Lagerfeld Prize was presented to 25-year-old Chinese designer Zane Li, founder of the LII label. Li's work is characterized by a fusion of sportswear and couture, creating a hybrid aesthetic that garnered jury approval. He will receive €200,000 EUR, approximately $23,227 USD, along with a year of mentorship and a €10,000 EUR fabric allowance, about $11,614 USD. The award was presented by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, underscoring the global recognition of Li's innovative approach to design.

Anil Padia, founder of the artisan-led brand Yoshita 1967, received the Savoir-Faire Prize. This award specifically recognizes brands that excel in craftsmanship and traditional techniques, highlighting Padia's commitment to artisanal production. Padia's brand focuses on heritage-inspired designs and meticulous execution, contributing to the preservation of skilled craftsmanship within the luxury fashion industry. The Savoir-Faire Prize also includes financial support and mentorship to help further develop the brand's artisanal capabilities.

The final of the prestigious competition took place at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris. The jury panel comprised influential figures in the fashion industry, including Jonathan Anderson, Sarah Burton, Maria Grazia Chiuri, Nicolas Ghesquière, Stella McCartney, NIGO, Phoebe Philo, Michael Rider, and Pharrell Williams. Thai actress Urassaya Sperbund served as a special guest juror. The LVMH Prize, established in 2013, aims to discover and support emerging fashion talent worldwide, providing them with crucial resources and industry exposure to foster their growth and success in the competitive luxury market.