The Amiri Prize opens to international applicants for second edition

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Jun 9, 2023

The Amiri Prize, a fashion award and incubator, has announced the launch of its second edition, opening applications for the first time to international applicants.

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The Amiri Prize by Mike Amiri, founder and creative director of L.A. men’s and women’s brand Amiri, was established as an annual fashion incubator to inspire hidden fashion talent across the U.S., in 2021. Applications are now open via amiriprize.com.

Alongside the namesake designer, applicants will be reviewed by a prestigious line-up of visionaries and entrepreneurs including Colm Dillane, founder and creative director, KidSuper; Law Roach, image architect; and Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, global contributing fashion editor-at-large, Vogue, among others. 

The prize winner, to be announced in early October, will receive a sum of $100,000 and a yearlong mentorship with Mike, opening up his brand’s infrastructure and resources. 

“We had absolutely nothing. No industry connections, no co-sign, no gimmicks and no backer. We just believed in ourselves and knew that if we did good work we couldn't be ignored. It's a new world and the doors are wide open for you and your dreams. The old guard is no longer relevant. I’m proof of this. You could do it as well. All you need to do is... try,“ said Amiri.

U.S. designer Lou Badger and his Philadelphia-based fashion brand Paulo Redeem was the winner of the inaugural Amiri Prize. Badger was recognized for her unique approach to her craft and a clear commitment to addressing the lack of representation and diversity in the sustainable fashion space.
 
“The Amiri Prize is an excellent opportunity for designers from nontraditional backgrounds to elevate their work, have the resources to invest more deeply in their craft, as well as have access to the wonderful people at the brand to cultivate more intention and focus,” said Badger. 

“Since the day I won the prize until now, I’ve had the opportunity to develop my creative ideas with more ease and greater intention. My journey has allowed me to cultivate technical expertise and understand the fashion industry at a higher level.”