Zalando Announces Three Visionary Finalists Pushing Fashion Forward

Zalando has officially unveiled the three distinguished finalists for its prestigious Zalando Visionary Award 2026. The shortlisted labels, Institution (Italy), Kyle Ho (United Kingdom), and Milk of Lime (Belgium/Germany), were meticulously chosen by the esteemed jury for their groundbreaking approaches across social engagement, innovation, and design. Each nominee has demonstrated a remarkable ability to push creative boundaries and drive significant progress within the dynamic fashion industry, according to the jury.

The highly anticipated winning label will be announced on January 28 by the distinguished jury, which comprises fashion luminaries Edward Buchanan, Christiane Arp, Jeanie Annan-Lewin, and Sara Sozzani Maino. Prior to the grand announcement, a curated audience of industry professionals will be granted an exclusive opportunity to preview select looks from the finalists' collections and engage directly with the designers during a dedicated panel discussion, offering unique insights into their creative philosophies.

The insightful panel discussion will be expertly moderated by Giuliano Calza, the visionary founder and creative director of GCDS. Beyond the immediate recognition, the ultimate winner of the Zalando Visionary Award 2026 will earn the invaluable opportunity to showcase their Spring/Summer 2027 collection in a dedicated fashion show during Copenhagen Fashion Week, scheduled for August.

Each of the three finalists has garnered recognition for their truly distinctive visions. Institution, an Italian label spearheaded by Galib Gassanoff, identifies itself as an artistic and social organisation deeply rooted in ethical principles and Azerbaijani heritage. The brand is committed to preserving endangered artisanal practices through its focus on meticulous craftsmanship, the use of natural materials, and profound social engagement.

Kyle Ho, a London-based fashion label, founded by Kyle Ho, stands out for its contemporary tailoring that boldly challenges traditional menswear conventions. With a focus on progressive silhouettes and innovative craftsmanship, the brand redefines masculinity and sets a new benchmark for sophisticated design for the next generation of fashion.

Milk of Lime, a Belgian-German ready-to-wear label founded by Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp graduates Julia Ballardt and Nico Verhaegen, draws its creative essence from the intricate relationship between humanity and nature, as well as traditional craftsmanship. Embodying a "rural punk" attitude, the brand explores the poetic dimensions of life, combining natural fibres, couture techniques, and traditional elements to forge a unique and expressive poetic language in its collections.

In addition to the invaluable platform provided by Copenhagen Fashion Week, the winning label will receive a substantial prize package. This includes prize money of 50,000 euros, along with financial support of 35,000 euros specifically allocated for staging their fashion show. The winner will also benefit from individual mentoring by jury member Edward Buchanan and an exclusive masterclass with industry expert Giuliano Calza, providing unparalleled guidance and development opportunities.

Sara Spännar, VP Marketing at Zalando, expressed her enthusiasm for the selection, stating, "I am delighted that we have selected these three finalists. With the Zalando Visionary Award, we want to honour fashion labels that show courage, challenge conventions and set new standards." Spännar further added, "This year's selection focuses on three voices that, with new perspectives and plenty of ambition, are changing the industry in the areas of design, innovation, and social engagement. I'm really looking forward to January, when the labels will have the opportunity to show even more of what they can do."