EPSON DESIGN AWARDS IN COLLABORATION WITH LABELEDBY CELEBRATE EMERGING FASHION DESIGNERS FOR THE 3RD YEAR

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23 Nov

“We are very proud to be able to organise the 3rd edition of this fantastic inspiring event. This edition we work even more closely with our partners. We use Epson sublimation print technology, Jetcol Sublimation transfer paper from Coldenhove, recycled PET 7 dead stock textiles from Greentex Fast and Klieverik calenders to create the most vibrant colours in the designs. I can’t wait till March 2024!” commented Jaco van Vuure of Epson B.V

Global technology company Epson and fashion innovator LABELEDBY. are once again organizing the Epson Design Awards for the third time. This award show provides talented designers with the opportunity to showcase their creativity to a larger audience.

The central theme for this year is inclusivity and diversity.

The final designs, as in previous years, will be judged by a professional panel of experts and will be featured in an exciting fashion show. The grand prize includes an Epson SureColor SC-F500 dye-sublimation printer valued at 2,415 euros and a cheque of 500 euros. Additionally, prizes will be awarded to the most colourful design and the most inclusive design.

PROJECT BRIEFING

This event aims to celebrate both the beauty of individuality and the importance of sustainable practices in the fashion industry.

Epson have invited fourteen designers to participate in a showcase that not only highlights their artistic vision but also promotes a more inclusive and environmentally conscious future.

Inclusivity and Diversity

The central theme of the fashion show revolves around “Inclusivity.” Designers are encouraged to explore the concept of inclusivity in their collections, celebrating all body types, genders, ethnicities, and abilities. The goal is to present a diverse range of designs that represent a true reflection of our society, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for everyone.

Sustainability is a core aspect of this event.

Designers are expected to incorporate sustainable practices into their creative process. From sourcing eco-friendly materials and using ethical production methods to considering the entire lifecycle of their garments, we aim to set an example for responsible fashion consumption. Whether through upcycling, zero-waste patterns, or digital prototyping, each designer should emphasize their commitment to a greener future.

Furthermore, fashion designers are encouraged to harness the power of artificial intelligence (A.I.) in creating their prints and designs, as long as their own signature or the message they wish to convey remains recognizable.

This fusion of human creativity and A.I. innovation can add a unique dimension to their designs.

Sky is the limit!

Designers are encouraged to design and create whatever they wish.

Final designs can consist of, for example, a single large dress or an outfit made up of multiple pieces. Each are allowed to create up to 2 full outfits for the show. Making sure to let their identity as a designer shine.

Designers are also encouraged to collaborate, nurturing co-creation and teamwork.

In total, fourteen designers have been invited to join the challenge and to explore vibrant colours and eye-catching prints. Ultimately, these will be the criteria on which the jury will evaluate.

Fabrics will be printed on behalf of the designers using Epson textile printing technologies, the textile sublimation prints can also be combined with other textiles/materials.

Now in its 3rd year, the EPSON DESIGN AWARDS In collaboration with LABELEDBY offer an unrivalled opportunity for emerging designers to showcase their talent to a global audience.

Emile Schmeits, marketing manager at Epson Netherlands commented.

"The awards are intended to help young, enthusiastic designers get their work to the attention of a larger audience. We saw last year how well that worked. At the same time, we want to introduce the next generation of fashion designers to a sustainable, small-scale and on-demand way of printing fabrics." The award winner will receive an Epson SureColor SC-F500 dye sublimation printer as a gift enabling them to take control of their own creativity and to explore printed production in-house and grow their design brand organically”.

Previous winners include:

Megan Van Englelen a talented designer and passionate creative. With the printer now installed in her studio, we asked her what’s next? “I'm super excited to start working with it. It gives me more space to experiment. One thing I really missed leaving school was the Epson printer because I've worked with it a lot - I was the workshop a lot. Having the printer now at home is so exciting, I'm already thinking creatively.”

Epson Design Awards winner Sophie Wantia created a dazzling collection of powerful fashion prints using Epson SureColor technology.

“I’ve always wanted to combine different print techniques, so this was a perfect opportunity to start doing this. I think the printed fabrics produced by Epson last year where really beautiful and beyond my expectations, I loved the quality of the printed colours. I was very honoured to have won the dye-sublimation printer, the Epson Design Awards, and to be able to start exploring the possibilities with digital textile printing.” commented Sophie Wantia.