In a move to provide a worldwide stage for emerging fashion designers, the Circular Design Challenge (CDC) has announced its expansion beyond borders. The initiative, pioneered by Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) five years ago, made its mark during the latest season of Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI. With the goal of fostering sustainability and circular practices in the fashion industry, the CDC has been a key player in steering India’s fashion towards eco-consciousness.
This season, presented by R|Elan, the next-gen fabric brand by RIL, and in collaboration with the United Nations in India, CDC has taken its mission to a global level. The challenge focuses on nurturing environmentally conscious creativity within the fashion industry, aiming for a greener and more sustainable future on an international scale.
For the past five years, the Circular Design Challenge has identified and supported innovative winners who integrate fashion with eco-friendly solutions. Previous winners include I Was A Sari, empowering women artisans by upcycling discarded sarees; Malai Biomaterials Design, offering sustainable alternatives to leather; Bandit, mastering the art of upcycling various materials into eco-cool products; and Pieux, concentrating on recycled materials and modular garment construction.
As a catalyst for positive change, the CDC has expanded its reach this season by opening up the competition globally. Designers from the UK, EU, and APAC regions were invited to contribute their creativity towards a more sustainable and circular fashion future. The initiative continues to champion transformative ideals, pushing the boundaries of eco-conscious design and fostering a global community committed to a greener fashion landscape.
