Zalando presents the finalists of the Visionary Award 2026

Zalando has announced the finalists for the Zalando Visionary Award 2026: the three shortlisted labels are Institution (Italy), Kyle Ho (UK) and Milk of Lime (Belgium/Germany). This year's nominees were selected by the jury for their visionary approaches to social engagement, innovation and design. According to the jury, each brand pushes creative boundaries and drives progress in the fashion industry.

The jury, made up of Edward Buchanan, Christiane Arp, Jeanie Annan-Lewin and Sara Sozzani Maino, will announce the winning brand on January 28 and present it with the Zalando Visionary Award 2026.

Beforehand, a select audience from the industry will have the opportunity to discover some of the finalists' looks in situ and meet the designers behind the brands during a round table.

The debate will be moderated by Giuliano Calza, founder and creative director of GCDS. The winning brand will have the opportunity to present its spring/summer 2027 collection at a fashion show during Copenhagen Fashion Week in August.

The three labels were recognized by the jury for their distinctive approaches: the institution sees itself as an artistic and social organization guided by ethical principles.

The brand has its roots in the Azerbaijani heritage of designer Galib Gassanoff. Through craftsmanship, natural materials and social commitment, the Institution works to preserve artisanal practices in danger of extinction.

Kyle Ho, a London-based fashion brand founded by Kyle Ho, specializes in contemporary tailoring. The brand's designs challenge traditional menswear conventions with progressive silhouettes and innovative craftsmanship, redefining masculinity. Focusing on sophisticated design, the brand continues to set the standard for a new generation.

Milk of Lime, founded by Julia Ballardt and Nico Verhaegen (graduates of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp), is a Belgian-German ready-to-wear brand. The brand is inspired by the relationship between people and nature, as well as traditional craftsmanship. With her “rural punk” attitude, she explores the poetic aspects of life. The collections combine natural fibers, haute couture techniques and traditional elements to create a unique poetic language.

The winning brand of the Zalando Visionary Award 2026 will receive a cash prize of 50,000 euros and financial support of 35,000 euros to present a fashion show at Copenhagen Fashion Week in August.

Additionally, the label will have access to one-on-one mentoring from jury member Edward Buchanan, as well as a masterclass with industry expert Giuliano Calza.

“I am delighted to have selected these three finalists. With the Zalando Visionary Award we want to honor fashion brands that show courage, challenge conventions and set new standards,” says Sara Spännar, vice president of marketing at Zalando.

“This year's selection focuses on three voices who, with new perspectives and a lot of ambition, are changing the industry in the areas of design, innovation and social commitment. I am looking forward to January, when brands will have the opportunity to show even more of what they can do,” says Spännar.