The online fashion, lifestyle and beauty destination continues its mission to uncover emerging, innovative talent in 2026, as it announces the three finalists of its Visionary Award
The highly anticipated Zalando Visionary Award is set to return for its fourth consecutive year, reaffirming its mission to spotlight the emerging designers shaping fashion's next chapter. In continued partnership with Copenhagen Fashion Week, a collaboration that has infused the event with fresh energy and forward-thinking perspectives for three years running, the award once again put the industry's most compelling new voices centre stage.
This year, Zalando has unveiled a trio of standout finalists - Institution, Kyle Ho, and Milk of Lime - each selected for their ability to transcend creative conventions while engaging deeply with fashion's role as both cultural mirror and catalyst. One of these rising talents will join the prestigious lineage of previous winners, such as Iamisigo, and present their spring/summer 2027 collection during the upcoming August shows.
Industry, Kyle Ho & Milk of Lime. Photo: Zalando
As anticipation builds towards the final announcement at the end of January, Zalando has revealed an esteemed jury poised to select the next Visionary. The panel brings togther some of the fashion world's most authrotitative and discerning voices: Edward Buchanan (creative director and cultural advocate), Christiane Arp (former editor-in-chief of Vogue Germany), Jeanie Annan-Lewin (contributing fashion editor at British Vogue), Sara Sozzani Maino (creative director of the Fondazione Suzan) and Sara Spännar (VP marketing at Zalando).
Together, they form a formidable group united by a shared commitment to nurturing the designers who challenge norms and reshape the industry's direction. Reflecting on this year's selection, Sara Sozzani Maino notes, "As a jury, we have three finalists with three very unique stories to tell. Each one is deeply rooted in the heritage of their brands and expressed through collections that are both carefully considered and meticulously crafted. They have all demonstrated clear vision and unwavering commitment to their brand DNA.
Fellow juror Sara Spännar echoes the sentiment, emphasising the importance of boldness in the contemporary fashion landscape: "We want to champion brands that dare to be different, challenge conventions and push boundaries. This year's selection highlights three distinct voices, each bringing a fresh perspective and ambition in how to drive the industry forward within design, innovation and social impact."
By the end of January, one designer will be named the winner, securing a robust support package designed to propel their creative journey. The recipient will be awarded €50,000 cash prize, along with €35,000 in production funding for their runway show at Copenhagen Fashion Week in August. Beyond financial support, the winner will receive exclusive mentorship from jury member Edward Buchana, as well as a dedicated masterclass with industry expert Giuliano Calza, ensuring targeted and meaningful development for the brand's next steps.