Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter have expanded their mentorship program to support emerging designers committed to sustainability and innovation.
- Three designers, Diotima, Liberowe, and Kartik Research, have been selected for the 2024 mentorship program.
- Exclusive capsule collections featuring digital ID technology mark the beginning of the mentorship.
- The selected designers will receive a two-year mentorship from industry experts and sustainability consultancy.
- The Education Fund has partnered to support final-year students in the UK through financial aid and mentorship.
In an effort to foster new talent in the fashion industry, Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter have joined forces to expand their mentorship initiative. This program is a part of the Vanguard, in collaboration with the British Fashion Council, and is designed to nurture the creativity and innovation of emerging designers who exhibit a strong commitment to sustainable and responsible design.
This year, the mentorship program has selected three designers: Diotima, founded by Rachel Scott, which celebrates Caribbean craftsmanship with a focus on crochet; Liberowe, which offers luxury tailoring with inspirations from Indian menswear and Parisian fashion of the 1960s and 1970s; and Kartik Research, which collaborates with Indian artisans to create limited-edition pieces that reflect local styles. Each of these designers showcases a unique aesthetic and a dedication to responsible fashion practices.
The launch of exclusive capsule collections by these designers is characterized by the incorporation of digital ID technology. This innovative technology provides customers with detailed information about the design and provenance of the pieces, along with valuable styling tips and advice on care and repair. Such advancements highlight the program’s forward-thinking approach to sustainable fashion.
Mentorship for the selected designers has been extended to two years from the previous one, providing them with comprehensive guidance. This includes access to a committee of global industry experts and bespoke advice from sustainability consultancy Create Sustain. In addition, business support from Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter further aids the designers in honing their craft and expanding their reach.
Alongside the Vanguard program, The Education Fund has widened its support for final-year students in the UK, offering both financial aid and mentorship. In collaboration with the British Fashion Council, this initiative aims to equip students with the resources and guidance needed to embark on successful careers in fashion. This year’s beneficiaries come from esteemed institutions such as the Glasgow School of Art and Central Saint Martins, among others.
Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter’s expanded initiatives underscore a commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of innovative designers.
