The first ‘Real Leather. Stay Different.’ design competition was launched in 2020 to find the next generation of outstanding fashion and design students, and to promote the use of sustainably-sourced, natural leather. Organiser, the Leather & Hide Council of America (LHCA), has confirmed that beginning September 2020, the competition will become an annual event open to eligible universities and their student intake. This decision follows strong international interest in the competition before the advent of, and disruptions caused by COVID-19.
The competition, which awards prizes ranging from work placements with leading fashion brands including Mulberry to a US tour, was co-ordinated by industry associations in China, Italy, Taiwan and the UK. More than 800 entries across three categories of apparel, footwear and fashion accessories were received from 25 leading fashion and design colleges and universities.
For the full press release, see here 200520-LHCA Press Release_Leather UK