The Swedish designer is headed to the semifinals, taking place in Paris in two weeks
Since its launch in 2013, the LVMH Prize has been a cornerstone in fostering and supporting emerging talent in the fashion industry, with this year marking its 11th edition. In much-anticipated news, the Prize has now announced the 20 designers who have secured the coveted spot in the semifinals, taking place in Paris on February 29 and March 1. Among the group, which has been selected from 2,500 applicants – a record number of entries – is Swedish designer Ellen Hodakova Larsson’s namesake brand Hodakova.
Bursting onto the scene in 2021, Hodakova has been lauded for its meticulous hand-craftsmanship. The brand’s collections often feature everyday objects refashioned into luxury pieces, catching the eye of major maisons and A-listers alike. Hodakova’s innovative designs have been wor on the likes of Rihanna, Dua Lipa and Julia Fox, while just last year, the label partnered with Gucci on a line-up of handbags crafted out of old Gucci belts. Eco-consciousness is at the core of Hodakova, which is evident in both the garments created and the flexible business model employed by Larsson. Firmly dedicated to achieving tangible change in the industry, Larsson aims for Hodakova to become the first-ever completely sustainable fashion house.
In two weeks, the LVMH semifinalists, hailing from 18 countries, will present their collections to a jury of 85 industry professionals. As in previous years, the public can vote for their eight favourite candidates to proceed to the finals. The winner of this year’s top prize will receive an endowment of €400,000, along with invaluable one-year mentorship by a skilled LVMH team. Past winners include names like Jacquemus, Nensi Dojaka, and Grace Wales Bonner, all of whom are now defining today’s fashion landscape.
In addition to the Grand Prize, two other accolades are up for grabs this year. The first is The Karl Lagerfeld Prize, whose winner will receive a €200,000 grant and a one-year mentorship. The second award, The Savoir-Faire Prize, will be given to a young brand that showcases exceptional craftsmanship, technical prowess and innovation. The winner of the Savoir-Faire will also receive a €200,000 endowment and a one-year mentorship.