Exciting New Competition Unveiled
On June 3, 2025, CLO Virtual Fashion, a leading innovator in three-dimensional fashion design software, announced a groundbreaking partnership with Tapestry, Inc., the parent company of the iconic accessories brand Coach. Together, they launched 'The Handbag Edit,' a global design competition which aims to challenge and empower the next generation of handbag designers.
A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Coach Play stores, which promote co-creation and community engagement, this competition seeks to merge traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation. Coach Play locations embody a youthful and adventurous spirit, celebrating the brand's 84-year legacy while encouraging fresh ideas and creative expressions.
The competition invites designers from around the world to reimagine Coach handbags through digital mediums. Participants are tasked with creating a unique digital capsule collection tailored for Coach Play stores using CLO’s advanced software. Each submission must include at least one handbag, along with optional accessories like bag charms or lifestyle objects to complement their designs.
Guidelines for Participation
To guide participants, CLO provides comprehensive brand standards and a specific color palette, ensuring that all designs resonate with Coach's aesthetic while allowing room for innovative expression. Contestants are permitted to submit up to five entries, which will be assessed based on several criteria including the concept, research efforts, and final product renders.
Exciting Rewards Await
In total, the competition boasts a prize pool of $5,000. The rewards are structured as follows:
- - 1st Place: $2,500
- - 2nd Place: $1,000
- - 3rd Place: $500
- - 4th Place: $250 (for four winners)
The opportunity for recognition will not be limited to financial rewards. Winning designs will receive features on both the CLO and Tapestry channels, providing invaluable exposure to aspiring designers.
Key Dates to Remember
- - The submission period opens on June 3, 2025 and continues until July 31, 2025.
- - Winners will be announced on August 25, 2025.
Designers interested in participating are encouraged to visit the official contest page on CONNECT, where they can find detailed guidelines, brand assets, and submission instructions.
About CLO Virtual Fashion
CLO Virtual Fashion has established itself at the forefront of 3D fashion technology, admired for its revolutionary CLO software. This tool is utilized by designers, small businesses, and major fashion brands striving for a seamless digital workflow. The company has dedicated over two decades to perfecting accurate garment simulation, aiming to empower users throughout the entire garment creation journey—from concept and design to manufacturing and marketing.
In addition to CLO, the company's offerings include CLO-SET, a platform for digital asset management and collaboration, and CONNECT, a marketplace for digital fashion. The ecosystem of products fosters a complete and interconnected approach to fashion design, catering to the industry's future needs.
About Tapestry, Inc.
Tapestry, Inc. is known for its diverse portfolio that includes not just Coach but also Kate Spade New York and Stuart Weitzman. Each brand maintains its unique identity while sharing a commitment to innovation and customer-centric experiences. Tapestry leverages its strengths to enhance sustainability within the fashion industry and promote inclusivity and diversity across its operations.
About Coach
Founded in New York in 1941, Coach embodies the spirit of its city with collections inspired by Creative Director Stuart Vevers. The brand’s philosophy centers around crafting beautiful, lasting products that encourage authenticity and individuality among its wearers. As a Tapestry brand, Coach seamlessly balances its rich heritage with a focus on future-forward fashion.
This competition marks a significant initiative that underscores the importance of creativity and innovation within the fashion realm, as CLO and Coach invite designers to envision the future of handbags through their creative lenses.