The LVMH Prize for young fashion designers has long been the industry’s prestigious crystal ball, and the 2026 semi-finalist shortlist is no exception. For those of us following the sustainable movement in Asia and beyond, these five names are the ones to watch
Kinyan Lam
Launched in 2023, Kinyan Lam’s genderless label began with natural dyes, a passion that led him to France to study under the world-renowned master Michel Garcia. For Lam, colour and textile innovation are the heartbeat of every collection. By blending nature-inspired silhouettes with a commitment to community-based production, his work serves as a reminder of the provenance behind what we wear.
Lii
Zane Li, a 2023 graduate of FIT and the creative force behind LII, is currently making waves in New York. Born in Chongqing, Li’s work explores the intersection of bold, tactile materials and modern colour play.
Nong Rak
A first-time entry for Thailand in the LVMH Prize history, Nong Rak is the brainchild of duo Teerapat Phuangfueang and Cherry W. Rain-Phuanfueang. Their work is a whimsical, sensory-heavy exploration of knitwear and sustainable materials. Moving between Bangkok and the US, the brand is celebrated for its one-of-a-kind, hand-worked pieces that feel like wearable art.
Shinyakozuka
Shinya Kozuka, a Central Saint Martins alumnus, views fashion as much more than just clothing. Based in Tokyo, his label Shinyakozuka builds entire narratives around sound, scent and scenery, treating each garment as an extension of a story. Having recently presented his first runway show at Pitti Uomo 109 in Florence, Kozuka is quickly becoming a spot in the menswear space, known for the balance of experimentation and storytelling.
Ssstein
Founded by Kiichiro Asakawa in 2016, Ssstein is built on the philosophy of stillness and motion. Asakawa, who is largely self-taught, spent years deconstructing and remaking vintage garments before launching his own brand. Today, Ssstein is a masterclass in minimalist precision, combining expert Japanese pattern-making with a quiet strength. Each piece feels natural, designed for those who are minimalism.
