Established in 2013, the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers is one of the most prestigious competitions in the fashion industry. This competition is dedicated to discovering and supporting emerging talent worldwide. Each year, it serves as a launchpad for visionary designers, offering funding, mentorship, and global recognition.

In 2025, African designers are making a powerful statement, with four creatives securing spots in the semi-finals. This growing presence signals a shift in the global fashion industry, one that acknowledges Africa’s rich heritage, diverse aesthetics, and forward-thinking creativity. As these designers gain international recognition, they challenge outdated narratives and redefine luxury through their cultural perspectives. The semi-finalists this year represent not just their individual brands but also a larger movement that is pushing African fashion onto the global stage.

(Photo Courtesy of SFASHIONUG)

A Legacy of African Excellence in the LVMH Prize

Over the years, African designers and creatives of African descent have made an indelible mark on the LVMH Prize, cementing their influence on the global fashion industry.  We have highlighted some of the past winners and finalists of African descent below. 

Grace Wales Bonner | 2016 WINNER – UK & JAMAICA

Grace Wales Bonner redefines modern luxury by blending British tailoring with Afro-Atlantic narratives. As the first designer of African descent to win the LVMH Prize, her work challenges conventional notions of luxury fashion, offering a unique fusion of styles that celebrate her heritage and reinterpret classic tailoring techniques.

(Photo Courtesy of Vogue Runway)

Thebe Magugu | 2019 WINNER – SOUTH AFRICA

Hailing from South Africa, Magugu has become a trailblazer in contemporary African fashion, using his designs to explore themes of identity, heritage, and politics. Magugu’s collections blend sharp tailoring, bold prints, and storytelling, redefining luxury by placing African craftsmanship and narratives at the forefront of global fashion.

(Photos Courtesy of LVMH Prize)

Sindiso Khumalo | 2020 FINALIST – SOUTH AFRICA

Sindiso Khumalo blends sustainability with compelling storytelling in her brand. Her designs focus on environmental consciousness while weaving in rich cultural narratives, creating a brand that speaks to both modern sustainability and cultural heritage.

(Photos Courtesy of LVMH Prize)

Priya Ahluwalia | 2020 FINALIST – UK, NIGERIA & INDIA

Priya Ahluwalia’s brand, Ahluwalia, fuses Indian and Nigerian influences with upcycled materials. Known for its commitment to sustainability, the brand makes a bold statement in the fashion industry, combining cultural richness with eco-consciousness.

(Photos Courtesy of LVMH Prize)

Charaf Tajer | 2020 FINALIST – France/Morocco

Casablanca, led by Charaf Tajer, is rooted in Parisian-Moroccan heritage. The brand merges the elegance of Parisian fashion with the vibrant, luxurious energy of Moroccan culture, offering a unique blend of style and tradition.

(Photos Courtesy of LVMH Prize)

Nicholas Daley | 2020 FINALIST – UK/Jamaica/Scotland

Nicholas Daley draws on his Jamaican-Scottish background to create designs that incorporate elements from both cultures. His work offers a distinctive fusion of influences, blending traditional tailoring with modern aesthetics and global sensibilities.

(Photos Courtesy of LVMH Prize)

Lukhanyo Mdingi | 2021 SPECIAL PRIZE WINNER – South Africa

Lukhanyo Mdingi, the 2021 winner of the Special Prize category, is known for his deeply researched, artisanal approach to design. His work reflects a strong commitment to craftsmanship and a deep respect for his cultural heritage, making a significant impact in the fashion world.

(Photos Courtesy of Vogue Runway)

These designers have set a powerful precedent, proving that African craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural narratives are essential on the world’s biggest fashion stages. Their success highlights the fusion of tradition, storytelling, and innovation, showing that African creativity is not just recognised but shaping the future of luxury fashion.

Africa’s Growing Influence in Global Fashion

As African designers continue to break new ground in competitions like the LVMH Prize, the global fashion industry is increasingly recognising the continent’s talent, craftsmanship, and cultural narratives. This shift is not just about visibility—it’s a reflection of how African creativity is actively shaping modern fashion.

Beyond aesthetics, African designers are at the forefront of sustainability and ethical production. Many embrace eco-friendly practices, circular fashion, and artisanal craftsmanship, proving that sustainability and luxury can go hand in hand. This commitment to both environmental and cultural preservation is redefining global fashion trends and challenging traditional notions of luxury.

With this growing recognition, African designers are no longer on the fringes of high fashion—they are leading it. The 2025 LVMH Prize semi-finalists represent this evolution, bringing fresh perspectives to an industry that is learning to embrace diverse voices.

Meet the African Semi-Finalists of the 2025 LVMH Prize

David Kusi Boye-Doe | GHANA

Boyedoe, founded in 2020 by David Kusi Boye-Doe, reimagines African heritage through sustainable design. Rooted in Ghanaian culture, the brand embraces deconstruction and reconstruction, taking inspiration from the mythical Sankofa bird. Boyedoe debuted globally at ARISE 30 Under 30 with designs that were steeped with folklore and included bright textures and patterns. In its four collections since then, it has kept pushing the envelope by fusing modern and traditional styles. As an ADJOAA brand partner, Boyedoe is part of a growing movement that celebrates African creativity and sustainable luxury. To explore and shop Boyedoe’s collections, visit Boyedoe's page on ADJOAA.

Tolu Coker | NIGERIA & UK

With a vision to reshape luxury, Tolu Coker established her label in 2021, merging sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural heritage. Drawing from her British-Nigerian background and a legacy of activism, her designs fuse traditional techniques like batik and loom weaving with modern craftsmanship. Beyond fashion, her multidisciplinary work spans exhibitions and global initiatives, using storytelling and design to push the boundaries of contemporary luxury.

(Photos Courtesy of Vogue Runway)

Yasmin Mansour | EGYPT

Blending artistic expression with structural precision, Yasmin Mansour has been redefining modern luxury since 2014. Based in Qatar, her brand is known for its sculptural silhouettes, intricate pleating, and dedication to craftsmanship. With a strong focus on sustainability and architectural influence, Mansour’s creations bridge the worlds of fashion and contemporary art, offering a bold new take on haute couture.

(Photos Courtesy of Vanity Teen)

Torishéju Dumi | NIGERIA & UK

Torishéju Dumi’s designs are a deeply personal exploration of heritage, spirituality, and identity. Shaped by her Nigerian-Brazilian upbringing and a fascination with 19th-century design, her work challenges conventional fashion narratives. A Central Saint Martins graduate with experience at Céline under Phoebe Philo, Ann Demeulemeester, and others, Dumi expands the representation of Black artistry, merging historical storytelling with modern innovation.

(Photos Courtesy of Vogue Runway)

The Future is Bright: Supporting Africa’s Rising Fashion Stars

The 2025 LVMH Prize semi-finalists showcase the incredible talent and creativity emerging from Africa. Each designer brings a unique vision to the global stage. Their recognition not only highlights their achievements but also underscores the growing influence of African fashion in the industry.

This moment marks a significant milestone for African designers, setting the stage for even greater success and shaping the future of fashion. As they continue to compete for the prestigious prize, it’s essential to support and celebrate their work. Following their journeys and championing their designs will help ensure that African creativity continues to thrive and inspire the world.

About The Author: Crystal Tan is a marketing and communication intern at ADJOAA, pursuing a bachelor’s in Global Management at Thunderbird School of Global Management, ASU.