What's Happening?
Alexandre Mattiussi, the founder and artistic director of Ami Paris, has been appointed as the president of the 2026 ANDAM fashion competition jury. This marks a significant milestone for Mattiussi, who won the Grand Prize in 2013. As president, he will mentor the Grand Prize and Special Prize winners, focusing on both creative and strategic aspects to help them develop their labels and establish a global reputation. The ANDAM competition, established in 1989, is a prestigious platform for emerging designers, with past winners achieving international recognition. This year, the competition also welcomes new corporate sponsors, including the Karla Otto PR agency and retailer Zalando, which aim to support the development of sustainable brand strategies
for emerging designers.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Alexandre Mattiussi as president of the ANDAM jury underscores the competition's commitment to nurturing emerging talent in the fashion industry. By providing mentorship and financial support, ANDAM plays a crucial role in helping designers gain international recognition and develop sustainable business models. The involvement of corporate sponsors like Karla Otto and Zalando highlights the growing importance of strategic partnerships in the fashion industry, particularly in promoting sustainability and long-term brand development. This initiative not only benefits the designers but also contributes to the evolution of the fashion industry by encouraging innovation and creativity.
What's Next?
The complete jury for the 2026 ANDAM competition will be announced in late February, with finalists slated to be revealed at the end of May. The prize ceremony is scheduled for July 1. As the competition progresses, the focus will be on how the new mentorship and sponsorship arrangements impact the participating designers. The involvement of industry leaders in mentoring roles is expected to provide valuable insights and guidance, potentially leading to significant advancements in the designers' careers and the broader fashion industry.
