Matchesfashion added three new designers in its Innovators talent support programme for 2021-2022. This includes Nensi Dojaka who is the latest winner the LVMH Prize.
Maximilian and S.S. Daley, a menswear designer, will join Dojaka. Maximilian celebrates Black history in his work. Matchesfashion explains that all three were selected for their “unique DNA” and compelling stories.
They join 11 other designers in womenswear and menswear, which were announced last September.
This initiative was created to promote emerging design. It includes a package that includes mentorship and preferential payment terms, along with marketing and content support. The retailer has also committed 2.2million pounds.
Matchesfashion’s head of menswear, Damien Paul, stated in a statement that: “We have always supported and incubated design talent – giving our global customers the chance to discover new designers alongside the most sought after luxury fashion.”
This support is formalized by the Innovators program, which recognises talent and promotes the launch of their collections at Matchesfashion. “We are thrilled to continue our journey alongside our 11 existing innovators, and look forward to welcoming Maximilian and Nensi Dojaka to our Showroom.”
Each designer was paired with an established designer to celebrate the Innovator programme’s second year. They were invited to “a conversation reflecting upon the past, present, and future fashion.” These conversations will air on Matches channels in September and October.
The established designers include Donatella Versace, Marni’s Francesco Risso, Jill Sander’s Luke Meier and Lucie Meier, Vivienne Westwood, and others.
Simon Chilvers is Matchesfashion’s creative director said: “The idea that big brands can sit alongside emerging designers is at Matchesfashion’s very core. This sense of discovery, which is why our customers choose us, is why they come to Matchesfashion. Our Innovators programme paired young designers with established brands, allowing for a series conversations that covering sustainability, the future of runway shows, how a collections are created, and so on.”
“The conversations took place via video, zoom, and e-mail. They looked at what it meant to be a fashion designer now. I loved the evolution of these conversations and how it led to a discovery between both brands. It’s amazing that so many of our designers are willing to support new talent. After all, everyone was developing at one point in their career.”
