The International Woolmark Prize celebrates outstanding fashion talents from around the globe who showcase the beauty and versatility of Australian Merino wool. Adeju Thompson, founder and creative director of Lagos Space Programme, is the winner of this prestigious prize this year. This non-binary, luxury design project exploring African futures was founded in 2014. Overall, the brand has a focus on craftsmanship and a dedication to slow fashion.
In 2023 the applications for the Woolmark Prize closed on the 3rd of April and winners were announced on the 15th of May. Before then there was a shortlist of eight finalists. This included Paolina Russo from the United Kingdom, Marco Rambaldi from Italy, Robyn Lynch from Ireland, Bluemarble from France, Maxxij from South Korea, and Rhude from the United States. The designers were asked to design a Fall 2023 collection utilizing ‘the innate versatility, innovative nature and eco-credentials of merino wool.’
In 2021, Lagos Space Programme was shortlisted for the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers so taking a fashion award home this year has been a while in the making. At the International Woolmark Prize, held on the 15 of May at the Petit Palais in Paris, Adeju Thompson was awarded the cash prize of $200,000 AUD; a business mentorship from some of the industry’s leading voices to aide in expanding their brand; and opportunities at top retailers for their clothing brand.
The judging panel included Marni creative director Francesco Risso, Zegna’s artistic director Alessandro Satori, and footwear designer Salehe Bembury to name a few. Further, LSP hopes to recapture and preserve the culture of Thompson’s Yoruba ancestors. From its most visual signature of indigo resist-dyeing to slow fashion informed by age-old craft traditions, LSP is at the forefront of rethinking African dressing in a contemporary age. It is the first Nigerian clothing line to win this prize.
