Belgian designer Julie Kegels has won the LVMH Prize 2026, marking the 13th edition of one of fashion’s most important awards for emerging talent.
The final took place on 4 September 2026 at Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, after more than 2,400 applicationswere received for this year’s competition. Twenty designers were selected for the semi-final, with nine ultimately reaching the final.
Kegels, who founded her eponymous womenswear label, was recognised for her contemporary and multifaceted approach to womenswear, with individuality at the centre of her work. She receives a €400,000 prize and one year of tailored mentorship from LVMH experts.
The Karl Lagerfeld Prize went to Lii, founded by Chinese designer Zane Li. The collection was recognised for bringing together sportswear and couture influences. Lii receives €200,000 and one year of LVMH mentorship.
The Savoir-Faire Prize was awarded to Yoshita 1967, founded by Kenyan designer Anil Padia. The recognition is particularly notable as Kenya was represented among the finalists for the first time. Padia receives €200,000, LVMH mentorship and additional support from LVMH Métiers d’Excellence through Maison Vermont.
All three winners will also receive material support through Nona Source, LVMH’s platform for upcycled deadstock materials.
The 2026 jury brought together 12 LVMH creative directors, including Jonathan Anderson, Sarah Burton, Nicolas Ghesquière, Nigo, Phoebe Philo and Pharrell Williams, alongside four LVMH executives. Thai actress Urassaya Sperbund joined as a special guest.
The prizes were presented by Jennifer Lawrence, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Urassaya Sperbund.
The 2026 edition highlights a new generation of designers bringing together individuality, craft and contemporary ideas, while showing how widely the next generation of fashion talent is emerging from around the world.
