Emerging Designers Shine: Setchu by Satoshi Kuwata Takes Top Honors at 2023 LVMH Prize taking home a 400,000 Euros prize.
by Diane Pernet
The electrifying atmosphere in Paris reached its zenith as Setchu by Satoshi Kuwata emerged victorious at the highly anticipated 2023 edition of the esteemed LVMH Prize for Young Designers. Celebrating a momentous milestone of its tenth anniversary, the glamorous ceremony took place at the prestigious Louis Vuitton Foundation.
Gracing the occasion with her unmistakable charm, Israeli actress Gal Gadot had the honor of unveiling the coveted winner. A constellation of fashion luminaries adorned the event, including Maria Grazia Chiuri and Kim Jones of Dior, Nicolas Ghesquière representing Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, and Jonathan Anderson, currently steering the ship at Loewe.
Julie Pelipas for her label Better-1
Overcoming fierce competition from an impressive pool of 2,400 applicants hailing from 15 countries, Milan-based designer Satoshi Kuwata claimed the crown, etching his name in the annals of fashion history. His triumph came with a remarkable grand prize of 400,000 euros, an unparalleled honor that will undoubtedly catapult his career to new heights. Additionally, Kuwata will receive a year of invaluable guidance and mentorship from the expert tastemakers at LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the prestigious luxury conglomerate that boasts an illustrious portfolio encompassing renowned brands such as Louis Vuitton, Guerlain, Dom Pérignon, and Sephora. This prestigious accolade is set to unlock countless opportunities and pave the way for his future success.
In a turn of events, the Karl Lagerfeld Special Jury Prize was jointly bestowed upon Ukrainian designer Julie Pelipas for her label Better and Italian designer Luca Magliano’s eponymous brand Magliano. Chinese pop star Xin Liu had the honor of presenting this prestigious accolade, symbolizing their remarkable talent and vision.
As recipients of this esteemed recognition, Pelipas and Magliano will not only enjoy the glory but also receive a generous grant of 200,000 euros. In addition, they will partake in a transformative one-year mentorship program facilitated by the esteemed LVMH Group.
Luca Magliano’s eponymous brand Magliano
The LVMH Prize, which remains a beacon of hope for emerging talents, is dedicated to designers under the age of 40 who have showcased and commercially sold at least two collections of women’s, men’s, or unisex ready-to-wear. Over the years, this coveted accolade has been bestowed upon visionary designers such as S.S. Daley, Nensi Dojaka, Thebe Magugu, Marine Serre, Grace Wales Bonner and Marques’ Almeida.
As the curtains draw on the awards ceremony, one can’t help but wonder about the myriad possibilities that lie ahead for the winners of the LVMH Prize and the Karl Lagerfeld Special Jury Prize. With a grand prize of 400,000 euros at their disposal, and an additional 200,000 euros granted to the joint recipients of the special award, the burning question remains: how will these talented designers utilize their newfound resources to elevate their brand awareness and propel their businesses to even greater heights? Only time will tell as these emerging visionaries embark on their transformative journeys, armed with ambition, creativity, and the invaluable support of the prestigious LVMH Group.
Setchu by Satoshi Kuwata
