Christopher Körber of Hugo Boss, celebrity stylist Mike Adler and Institute of Digital Fashion founders Leanne Elliot-Young and CattyTay return this year.
Alongside these returning judges, Paola Arosio from Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana and 2022 overall winner Gal Benjamin complete the panel.
The final of the 2023 competition will take place in Milan, Italy, in October. The competition aims to promote slow style and a more sustainable future using long-lasting natural materials.
Designs must be made using at least 50% natural, sustainable, responsibly produced leather and are assessed on their fashion, sustainability and durability credentials with judges wanting to see pieces that will not only last but will be loved for a lifetime.
Benjamin said: “Winning this competition was an unparalleled experience. It showed me the potential of sustainability-focused design. Now, as a judge, I look forward to fostering creativity, innovation, and sustainable practices among the new generation of designers.”
RLSD is funded by the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA). LHCA President Steve Sothmann added: “The time for talk has passed. We need to take action now to challenge the damage wrought by the fast-fashion industry. We need to set out an alternative future that makes use of natural materials, that challenge fast-fashion and that cuts the waste going to landfill.
“We are delighted to welcome such an esteemed panel of judges for this year’s competition. Their collective expertise and commitment to sustainable fashion are sure to inspire and guide our participants in a meaningful way.”
