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Discovering the Future of Fashion in Tokyo

In an exciting initiative spearheaded by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, two fashion competitions aim to discover and nurture upcoming designers who can make their mark on the global stage. These competitions, dubbed the Next Fashion Designer of Tokyo 2026 (NFDT) and the Sustainable Fashion Design Award 2026 (SFDA), invite students residing or studying in Tokyo to showcase their creativity.

An Overview of the Competitions

This year, around 2,000 entries were submitted, reflecting a diverse range of styles and ideas. The NFDT competition is divided into two main categories: the Open Category, which has 15 finalists, and the Inclusive Design Category, featuring 14 finalists who create clothing accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. Meanwhile, the SFDA showcases innovative designs that incorporate traditional kimono fabrics, with 15 finalists in both the Wearable Category and the Fashion Goods Category.

General Voting Event

From now until October 31, the public is invited to participate in voting for the top designs that made it past the preliminary screening. Anyone can act as a judge by liking their favorite designs on the official Instagram accounts of NFDT and SFDA. Each Instagram post includes vital information about the design, including its title and the concept behind it, allowing voters to appreciate the creativity on display. Notably, multiple votes for different designs are permitted, making this a truly democratic selection process.

The top three designs from each category with the most likes will be announced on the official website and social media by the end of November. Designers chosen will advance to the final jury selection, scheduled to take place in March 2026, where they can compete for special selection awards.

Fostering Innovation Through Creativity

One standout design from last year’s NFDT was an outfit tailored for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, showcasing a fashionable aesthetic while ensuring practicality. Similarly, the SFDA's notable winner featured a dress made from kimono scraps, creatively merging traditional fabric with contemporary ideas.

The second evaluation stage will feature the 59 selected designs being judged by esteemed industry professionals and buyers, ultimately selecting six finalists from each category for further review.

Tokyo as a Global Fashion Hub

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government envisions elevating Tokyo to the ranks of famous fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, New York, and London. To support this goal, they established NFDT and SFDA in 2022, welcoming submissions from not just fashion students but also talented young creators involved in arts, digital, and multimedia.

This year, applications for participation closed in July. The process includes an initial design submission phase, workshops, and a final runway presentation in March 2026 where categories will culminate in awards such as the Tokyo Governor's Award.

The most defining aspect of these competitions is their focus on developing talent. Preliminary round finalists gain access to workshops led by renowned designers and industry professionals, while those who make it to the second round are offered practical experiences, including merchandising and promotional opportunities.

Celebrating Diverse Expertise

The jury boasts a variety of members, including leading designers, buyers, and representatives from disability support organizations, making this competition one of the most watched in the country. The NFDT's chief judge is Katsuhiko Hibino, president of Tokyo University of the Arts, while the deputy chair of the SFDA is Tomoe Shinohara, an artist known for her vibrant creativity.

To learn more about these exciting initiatives and participate in the voting process, visit the official websites: NFDT and SFDA. Together, let us support these emerging talents as they journey towards defining the future of fashion.