The theme of this competition, Cultural Heritage, invites participants to explore the rich legacy of traditional craftsmanship, symbols, and patterns, reinterpreting them within a contemporary fashion context. This is an opportunity to celebrate cultural identity while embracing innovation, seamlessly blending historical motifs with modern aesthetics.
Participants are encouraged to draw inspiration from Romanian folk art, local craftsmanship, and cultural narratives, transforming them into fashion-forward designs that honor the past while looking toward the future.
75-80% of each collection must be created using preloved garments. This approach not only aligns with ethical fashion practices but also reinforces the idea of giving heritage new life—revitalizing tradition through responsible and creative design.
MARA POPA
Thread Across Time • exploring heritage, emotion and sculptural form
As part of the prize, the winner will enjoy a unique educational experience at POLIMODA (www.polimoda.com) —one of the world’s leading fashion schools
Submission Opening
Submission Deadline
Shortlist Announce
Collection production, workshops and mentorship
Collection production
Winner Announcement
eligible
- Students and graduates of Arts & Designs universities from Romania, with Romanian citizenship
- Young Romanian designers who already have their own fashion brand, founded no earlier than 2022
- Submissions are limited to clothing and apparel for women and/or men
- Designs for shoes and/or accessories are not eligible
- Bridal designs/collections are not eligible
- Complete the application form by 10 May
- Add your personal details, as well as information about your vision for the collection
- Make sure to check the selection criteria before starting the application and design process
- Have your portfolio ready
- Send us a short video (1 minute) where you tell us a bit about yourself and the concept design for your collection (optional)
- Fill in the Application Form diligently
- Please send all visual files as JPG/PDF – size should not exceed 10MB
- Contestants need to propose 3 designs for 3 full outfits
vision
