The fashion industry prepares for a seismic shift as celebrated image architect Law Roach takes his seat on the jury of the influential Woolmark Prize. This prestigious competition, which has become a launching pad for emerging design talent worldwide, will unfold under the chairmanship of fashion icon Donatella Versace. The culmination of this high-stakes fashion journey is scheduled for April 2 in Milan, where one designer’s vision will be crowned with industry-wide recognition.
Star-studded panel brings diverse expertise
The jury assembled for this year’s competition represents an exceptional cross-section of fashion’s most innovative minds. Alongside Roach and Versace, the panel includes Alessandro Sartori, artistic director of Zegna, and Ib Kamara, who serves as Off-White’s art and image director while also functioning as this year’s guest artistic director.
The impressive roster continues with Danielle Goldberg, whose work as a stylist and brand consultant has shaped numerous high-profile campaigns. Roopal Patel brings her expertise as senior vice president and fashion director of Saks Fifth Avenue, while educator and accessibility advocate Sinéad Burke offers perspective as founder of Tilting the Lens.
Creative visionaries complete the lineup
Completing this formidable jury are multifaceted artist Honey Dijon, whose work as a DJ and producer has influenced fashion runways worldwide; respected fashion writer Tim Blanks; Alessandro Dell’Acqua, the creative force behind No. 21; and Simone Marchetti, who leads as European editorial director for Vanity Fair.
This carefully curated panel ensures that contestants will be evaluated through multiple lenses, from commercial viability to artistic innovation.
Nurturing tomorrow’s design leaders
The competition represents more than just a prize—it embodies the fashion industry’s commitment to fostering new talent. The Woolmark Prize has historically identified designers who later reshape the industry landscape, making the jury’s selections particularly significant.
The winner will receive an impressive 300,000 Australian dollars (approximately $195,000), providing vital financial support that can transform a promising label into an established brand. This investment in emerging talent reflects the industry’s recognition that innovation often comes from fresh perspectives.
Eight finalists showcase global creativity
The competition has narrowed to eight exceptional finalists, each bringing unique aesthetic sensibilities and creative approaches:
Rachel Scott of Diotima Raul Lopez, founder of Luar Michael Stewart of London-based label Standing Ground Meryll Rogge, who previously headed womenswear design at Dries Van Noten Louis Gabriel Nouchi, creator of his eponymous Paris-based house Luca Lin, the design intelligence behind Act No.1 Ester Manas Balthazar Delepierre of Ester Manas
Beyond the main prize: Recognizing innovation
The competition extends beyond its primary award, with additional recognition for groundbreaking approaches to fashion. The Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation will highlight exceptional creativity in working with merino wool, celebrating designers who push material boundaries in unexpected ways.
Sustainability takes center stage
Further emphasizing the industry’s pivot toward responsible practices, the Supply Chain Award will recognize exceptional leadership in sustainable production methods. This acknowledgment highlights the growing understanding that fashion’s future depends not just on aesthetic innovation but on fundamentally reimagining production processes.
Milan moment heralds fashion’s future direction
As the fashion world turns its attention to Milan for the April announcement, anticipation builds around which creative vision will capture the jury’s imagination. The selection will inevitably signal broader trends and directions for the industry.
With Law Roach‘s addition to the jury, the competition gains a perspective informed by his transformative work with celebrities and his understanding of how fashion functions in the cultural spotlight. His expertise in crafting narrative through clothing adds a valuable dimension to the evaluation process.
The 2024 Woolmark Prize continues the competition’s tradition of identifying fashion’s most promising talents while adapting to reflect the industry’s evolving priorities. As sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation increasingly define success in fashion, this year’s jury selection suggests a competition attuned to both creative excellence and contemporary values.
When the winner is announced in Milan, the fashion world will not just celebrate individual achievement but also glimpse the industry’s future direction through the creative vision of rising talent and the discerning eyes of established innovators like Law Roach.
