In a bold move to reshape how emerging talent is supported in the local industry, New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has unveiled the Future of Fashion Showcase, a newly reimagined platform spotlighting Aotearoa’s most promising fashion brands.
Announced today, this elevated initiative marks a significant evolution from the previous Next Gen programme, introducing a more strategic, business-minded approach to nurturing rising designers. The new showcase is aimed at labels that have been commercially active for over three years and are now ready to scale up and break through into broader markets – locally and internationally.
“This shift is about more than a name change – it’s a reflection of our vision to nurture brands with real staying power,” said Dan Ahwa, NZFW Board Member and Creative Consultant. “We want to champion those up-and-coming designers who have laid a solid foundation and are now poised for broader recognition and growth.”
Designed for Designers Ready to Scale
Unlike many traditional emerging talent showcases, the Future of Fashion Showcase is not just about exposure – it’s about preparing designers for long-term success in a competitive global market.
Selected designers will receive:
- Full coverage of runway production costs at NZFW 2025
- A feature slot on the official NZFW schedule, attended by leading media, buyers, and tastemakers
- Shared model casting, along with dedicated hair and makeup teams
- Four one-hour mentorship sessions with top New Zealand fashion industry experts
- Ongoing access to advisors who will guide finalists pre-and post-show on topics ranging from retail strategy to sustainability practices
This comprehensive support package is designed to ease the financial burden often associated with runway presentations, while also giving brands the insight and tools needed to grow sustainably.
Stronger Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
Applications are now open to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents who have been producing commercially available apparel for at least three years. Brands must show:
- Strong runway potential
- Innovation and a unique point of view
- Demonstrated effort (or a clear roadmap) towards sustainable and ethical business practices
- A commitment to size inclusivity and broader accessibility
Each designer can present a maximum of 10 looks in the showcase, and can only participate once under the Future of Fashion banner to ensure fresh opportunities year after year.
“It’s not just about talent anymore,” said Ahwa. “It’s about business readiness, a compelling vision, and a responsibility to the environment and community. This is the next generation of fashion leadership.”
A Track Record of Launching Success Stories
The Next Gen programme has already played a pivotal role in launching several now-established names. Designers like James Bush, Oosterom, Flying Fox Clothing, Lipo, and Nicole van Vuuren have all leveraged the NZFW platform to expand their reach and gain national recognition.
The refreshed Future of Fashion initiative builds on that legacy with an even deeper investment in brand-building and market readiness.
Apply Now: A Once-in-a-Career Opportunity
Applications for the Future of Fashion Showcase at NZFW 2025 are open now.
Visit: www.nzfashionweek.com/the-future-of-fashion
Email: [email protected]
Key Requirements for Entry:
- NZ citizen or permanent resident
- 3+ years of commercially available apparel
- Demonstrated runway and business potential
- Focus on sustainability and inclusivity
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of respected industry leaders, with successful candidates notified in time to prepare for their moment on the NZFW runway this September.