In an industry where trends evolve overnight and competition is relentless, the spotlight often shines brightest on established names. But what about the young creatives just beginning to make their mark? These emerging talents bring fresh ideas and unique perspectives with the potential to reshape the fashion landscape. They are pushing boundaries and challenging conventional design codes. Recognising that nurturing new talent is essential to the industry's growth and longevity, Longchamp is stepping up as a partner and patron of ANDAM, supporting the discovery and development of the fashion visionaries of tomorrow.
Since its founding in 1989, ANDAM has been a key force in championing emerging fashion talent. Breaking into the industry is no easy feat for young designers, but the prestigious ANDAM Fashion Awards have long served as a launch pad for some of fashion’s most celebrated names. Today, ANDAM continues to empower the next generation by providing the tools, resources, and support they need to transform their creative visions into reality.
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As a proud patron of ANDAM, Longchamp reinforces its ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion talent. Longchamp’s Creative Director, Sophie Delafontaine, a long-standing jury member for the ANDAM Fashion Awards since 2007, returns once again to champion bold new voices in the industry.
This year, the winner of the prestigious Accessories Award will not only receive an endowment of €100,000 (approximately S$149,500) but will also gain rare access to Longchamp’s inner circle—benefiting from a year-long mentorship with Delafontaine herself, alongside guidance from the brand’s operational teams.
Longchamp’s commitment to the fashion industry extends beyond aesthetics. It's deeply rooted in sustainability and the meaningful preservation of craft. By transforming surplus into creative opportunity, the brand provides award finalists with access to leftover leather and canvas from its production.
In the past year alone, Longchamp has donated 2,300 square metres of materials to finalists such as Christian Heikoop, Sarah Levy, Meryll Rogge, and 2013 finalist Christine Phung—empowering them to push the boundaries of their creative vision. This initiative continues to evolve, with ready-to-wear deadstock added to the mix for the first time this year.
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“Longchamp has a mission to help young fashion designers bring their creative dreams to life. It is essential to support them, especially when they are just starting out. We are proud of giving them the opportunity to express their vision through our high-quality materials and precious leathers. I can’t wait to see their future designs” says Delafontaine in a press release. Longchamp is helping to write the next chapter of fashion by driving innovation that keeps the industry dynamic.