Hyères Festival Opens Submissions for 2026 Edition Spotlighting Emerging Global Talent

The prestigious Hyères International Festival of Fashion, Photography and Accessories has officially opened its call for entries for its 41st edition. Set to take place from October 15 to 18, 2026, this annual event, meticulously organised by Villa Noailles, stands as a pivotal moment for young creatives across the globe. Recognised as a landmark gathering, the festival provides an indispensable launchpad for emerging talent, fostering vital connections within the fashion, photography, and accessories industries.

Aspiring designers and artists have until December 15 to submit their applications. Following this deadline, Villa Noailles will meticulously review all entries to compile a shortlist of promising candidates. These selected individuals will then have their work presented to the festival's distinguished juries in January. The juries will subsequently select the finalists, whose innovative creations will gain significant exposure through exhibitions and showcases during the festival in mid-October, offering them a unique platform to shine.

Since its inception in 1986, the festival has consistently played a crucial role in identifying and nurturing talents who have gone on to achieve international acclaim. It offers participants an unparalleled environment for networking, facilitating introductions to influential figures such as journalists, buyers, representatives from major fashion houses, talent scouts, industry consultants, manufacturers, and gallerists. This environment is specifically designed to cultivate collaboration and widespread recognition. Furthermore, the exhibitions featuring the finalists' work remain open to the public for several months post-festival, significantly extending the visibility and reach of these burgeoning designers.

Each of the festival’s competitions — fashion, photography, and accessories — features ten finalists, each chosen by highly esteemed juries comprising leaders in their respective fields. The festival's enduring success is underpinned by the steadfast support of major partners, including industry giants like Chanel, LVMH, Hermès, alongside 7L, FHCM, DEFI, Supima, American Vintage, and Le 19M. A recent leadership transition saw Hugo Lucchino take the helm of Villa Noailles last October, succeeding Jean-Pierre Blanc, who dedicated nearly four decades to shaping the institution into the cultural beacon it is today.

The festival's impact is clearly demonstrated by its past winners. As a testament to its commitment to discovering new talent, the main award recipients of the 2025 edition included Lucas Emilio Brunner, who earned the Grand Prix du Jury Mode; Noémie Ninot, honoured with the Grand Prix du Jury Photographie; and Amaury Darras, recipient of the Grand Prix du Jury Accessoires. The Hyères Festival thus continues its essential mission, providing an unparalleled platform and a crucial gateway for young designers to enter and thrive in the competitive professional world.