Milan, Italy—The International Woolmark Prize, renowned for spotlighting emerging fashion talents and sustainable practices, has announced Donatella Versace as the chair of its 2025 jury. This prestigious event, set to return to Milan in April, marks the first edition in its new biennial format.

Versace, who recently transitioned to the role of Chief Brand Ambassador for the iconic fashion house, expressed her enthusiasm: “Supporting the next generation of fashion talent has never been more important. I am so excited to host the Woolmark Prize in our home city of Milan and to meet the designers selected. I am sure they will all be winners in their own way.”

Joining her on the esteemed panel are industry luminaries, including:

• Ib Kamara, Guest Artistic Director for IWP 2025 and Editor-in-Chief of Dazed
• Law Roach, celebrated Image Architect
• Alessandro Sartori, Artistic Director of Zegna
• Alessandro Dell’Acqua, Founder and Creative Director of N21
• Roopal Patel, Senior Vice President and Fashion Director at Saks Fifth Avenue
• Sinéad Burke, educator, advocate, and founder of Tilting the Lens
• Honey Dijon, renowned DJ, producer, and artist
• Danielle Goldberg, celebrity stylist and brand consultant
• Tim Blanks, Editor-at-Large at Business of Fashion
• Simone Marchetti, European Editorial Director of Vanity Fair and Editor-in-Chief of Vanity Fair Italia

The 2025 finalists, selected from hundreds of applicants, are:

• ACT N°1 (Italy)
• Diotima (USA)
• Duran Lantink (The Netherlands)
• Ester Manas (Belgium)
• LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi (France)
• LUAR (USA)
• Meryll Rogge (Belgium)
• Standing Ground (UK/Ireland)

Each designer will receive AU$60,000 to develop a Merino wool collection, either as part of their Fall/Winter 2025 line or as a standalone project. The grand prize winner will be awarded an increased fund of AU$300,000 to invest in their business development. Additionally, all finalists will have the opportunity to be stocked at leading global retailers through the International Woolmark Prize Retailer Network.

The International Woolmark Prize has a rich history of recognizing and supporting some of fashion’s most iconic designers, including Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, and Ralph Lauren. This year’s event not only continues this legacy but also emphasizes the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As the fashion world eagerly anticipates the final event, the 2025 International Woolmark Prize promises to be a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and the enduring versatility of Merino wool.