DHL introduces a new batch of up-and-coming fashion designers in the Next Gen 2024 Program. Know more about them before their exciting shows during Australian Fashion Week on May 13.
Despite its distance from the celebrated fashion capitals of Italy and France, Australian fashion has secured a prominent place on the global stage with its distinctive laid-back style and chic comfort. Australia has emerged as a fashion hub in its own right, driven by an array of talented designers who each bring a unique flair that exemplifies the country’s style. In fact, many popular Australian labels have found their way into the mainstream and into the closets of iconic celebrities. One great example would be Dua Lipa and Anne Hathaway, who flaunt outfits by one of the country’s renowned Australian fashion designers Dion Lee.
As fashion continues to thrive in Australia, numerous up-and-coming designers are making significant strides to establish their presence in the industry. The Next Gen 2024 Program serves as a crucial platform for these emerging talents, where they can refine their skills, present their unique design visions, and actively contribute to redefining Australian fashion. This program highlights their creative expression and offers them the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and gain exposure on an international stage.
What is the Next Gen program?
The Next Gen program is a nationwide competition established in 1996 that aims to discover and introduce fresh talent in Australia's fashion industry.
Each year, four winners are chosen by an elite panel of judges for the unique opportunity to showcase their creative designs on the runway at Australian Fashion Week, one of Asia-Pacific’s premiere fashion events. Some of the big names included in the 2024 panel include the likes of Adam Baidawi, who is the Head of British GQ and Naomi Smith, who is the Fashion Director of Marie Clare and ELLE Australia.
The competition is open to all Australian citizens currently residing in Australia and Australian permanent residents aged 18 and older.
Over the years, this prestigious competition has been a launchpad for numerous celebrated Australian designers and labels, such as Akira, CAMILLA & MARC, BEC & BRIDGE, Clea and Anna Quan, helping them achieve international acclaim.
How does the Next Gen 2024 program help support winners with their businesses?
The Next Gen prize provides four winning designers with a unique platform to maximise the visibility of their fashion business and increase their sales opportunities by showcasing their designs at the Australian Fashion Week. Valued at over $100,000, the prize package includes:
- A dedicated runway show for the four winners on the official Australian Fashion Week schedule.
- A comprehensive content package that features runway photography, show videos, and a livestream accessible to a global audience.
- A dedicated brand campaign that highlights looks from the four winning designers.
- Tailored PR, social media, and digital marketing strategies to enhance their profiles.
As the event is presented by DHL, winners also gain the opportunity to expand their business with the support of one of the world's most trusted logistics companies:
- Winners receive $2,000 in DHL International shipping credits, courtesy of DHL Express.
- An exclusive one-on-one session with a DHL Fashion logistics expert.
- Promotion across DHL's global social networks, broadening their exposure to an international market.
Winners of the Next Gen 2024 prize
This year's Next Gen 2024 has unveiled a host of remarkable new fashion designers in Australia, each eager to leave their mark on the Australian clothing industry.
