The response to student design competition ‘Real Leather. Stay Different’ has been so high that the event will go annual from September, says organizer the Leather & Hide Council of America (LHCA). The competition, which aims to find tomorrow’s design talent while promoting the versatility, beauty and sustainability of authentic leather, attracted more than 800 entries from 25 leading fashion and design colleges and universities in Europe and Asia.
LHCA President, Stephen Sothmann commented, “As a global leader in leather, we are committed to promoting best practice in quality leather production. And we are committed to supporting fresh talent, at a time when they need it most. We are therefore delighted to announce the continuation of this unique competition. It gives students with an interest in promoting style ahead of fast fashion the opportunity to innovate and inspire, using a natural and incredibly durable material.”
‘Real Leather. Stay Different’, which awards prizes including work placements with leading fashion brands, was coordinated by industry associations in China, Italy, Taiwan and the UK.
First round judging has been completed in China and Taiwan. In Italy and the UK, judging has been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and entrants have been invited to join the 2021 competition.