In the dazzling world of fashion, where every season brings fresh talent to the forefront, we eagerly anticipate the debut collections of emerging designers. Fashion’s ever-evolving landscape is enriched by their unique perspectives, local craftsmanship, innovative techniques, and commitment to sustainability. Here are ten promising designers that deserve your attention this season.
1. Maisie Wilen
Los Angeles-based designer Maisie Schloss, a graduate of Parsons, unveiled her eponymous brand in June 2019. With prior experience as a womenswear designer for Kanye West’s Yeezy brand and the distinction of being the inaugural recipient of his creative incubator grant, Schloss has made her mark in the fashion world. While known for her vibrant party attire, she’s recently reimagined her creations for the ultimate comfort of dancing at home.
2. Kenneth Ize
Vienna-born designer Kenneth Ize, now based in Nigeria, established his eponymous collection in 2013. His primary focus is preserving Nigerian craftsmanship by utilizing locally sourced fabrics and engaging local communities. His signature style incorporates the vibrant Aso Oke woven cloth. Ize’s work garnered attention when supermodel Naomi Campbell closed his Fall 2020 collection. In 2019, he was a finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize.
3. Chopova Lowena
The sustainably-driven duo, Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena, crossed paths while studying at Central Saint Martins. Operating out of London, they create fashion pieces using vintage fabrics sourced from Bulgaria, and the garments are produced in both Bulgaria and England. Chopova Lowena’s pleated patchwork skirts have already captured a devoted following of fashion enthusiasts.
4. Del Core
Debuting at Milan Fashion Week in 2021, Daniel Del Core introduced his womenswear collection, “Del Core.” His previous role overseeing the VIP department at Gucci, where he dressed celebrities like Lana Del Rey and Bjork, undoubtedly influenced his eccentric and colorful eveningwear creations. It’s easy to imagine seeing his designs on red carpets, both virtual and in the real world.
5. Charles de Vilmorin
At just twenty-four years old, Charles de Vilmorin has experienced a meteoric rise in his career. In April 2020, he launched his eponymous collection, initially inspired by artist Niki de Saint Phalle. His journey led him to participate in GucciFest and present his first haute couture collection in January 2021. Excitingly, he’s been appointed as the creative head of the renowned French fashion house, Rochas, with his first collection set to debut in spring 2022.
6. Thebe Magugu
Hailing from South Africa, Thebe Magugu earned the distinction of becoming the first African designer to win the prestigious LVMH Prize. His designs celebrate South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, with his clothing collection produced in Johannesburg. Magugu also publishes an annual zine dedicated to ideas and individuals from his homeland.
7. Daniel W. Fletcher
After honing his skills at fashion giants like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Victoria Beckham, and Lanvin, Daniel W. Fletcher has embarked on his own journey. His menswear collections earned him a fan base when he competed on Netflix’s series “Next in Fashion.” Currently serving as the artistic director at Fiorucci, Fletcher continues to captivate the fashion world with his innovative designs.
8. Supriya Lele
British-Indian designer Supriya Lele debuted her eponymous label at London Fashion Week in 2017. Her contemporary, sheer, and colorful body-conscious creations have garnered a modern following, with stars like Dua Lipa donning her designs for special occasions. In 2020, she was a finalist for the LVMH Prize.
9. Peter Do
Founded in 2018 by a collective of friends led by Vietnamese designer Peter Do, the Peter Do brand defies traditional industry conventions. They showcase their collections when and where they choose, most recently in Paris, despite being based in New York. Do’s clean, minimalist tailoring, influenced by his time working under Phoebe Philo at Celine, has earned him a celebrity fan base, including Zendaya and Solange.
10. Ahluwalia
Priya Ahluwalia, an Indian-Nigerian designer, introduced her menswear brand in 2018. Ahluwalia’s unique approach involves the use of vintage and deadstock fabrics, offering a modern twist on traditional menswear. She was invited to participate in GucciFest and was honored with the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design during London Fashion Week last month.