Net-A-Porter collaborates with Mr Porter to enhance its mentorship programme, supporting upcoming designers.
- Three emerging designers selected for 2024 will benefit from an extended mentorship duration.
- The initiative is part of the Vanguard programme in partnership with the British Fashion Council.
- Designers are chosen for their focus on responsible design and sustainability.
- Innovative digital ID technology is introduced in new capsule collections.
Net-A-Porter, in collaboration with Mr Porter, has expanded its mentorship programme to further support emerging designers. This enhancement is part of the Vanguard programme, which is conducted in partnership with the British Fashion Council. Three new designers have been selected for 2024, marking a significant step in nurturing design talent.
The selected designers, namely Diotima, Liberowe, and Kartik Research, reflect a commitment to responsible design and sustainability. These designers are known for their unique design approaches and their capsule collections will introduce innovative digital ID technology.
Diotima, founded by Caribbean-born designer Rachel Scott in 2021, highlights Jamaica’s handmade crafts such as crochet. Liberowe, based in London, offers luxury tailoring inspired by Indian menswear and historical European fashion styles. Kartik Research, established by Kartik Kumra, produces limited clothing pieces influenced by local Indian styles.
Each designer will benefit from an extended mentorship period, now lasting two years. During this time, the designers will receive guidance from two mentors, drawing expertise from a committee of global industry experts. Additionally, they will receive tailored advice from Create Sustain for sustainable practices, and business support from both Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter.
Mentors include key figures such as Alison Loehnis, interim chief executive and president of both Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter, and other industry leaders. This diverse mentorship approaches aim to empower these designers to reach their full potential by providing comprehensive support across various aspects of fashion design and business.
In tandem, the Education Fund, in its third year, continues to support final year students at UK educational institutions. Sponsored by Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter, this initiative provides financial backing and dedicated mentoring to students embarking on their fashion careers.
The expanded mentorship initiative underscores a significant commitment to developing responsible and talented design leaders for the future.
