At Labels & Things, we believe that exceptional design is often found in the details. This belief once again guided our presence at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp 2026 Graduate Show, where the next generation of fashion talent presented collections defined by creativity, craftsmanship, and individuality.

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting emerging designers, we had the pleasure of collaborating with several students throughout the development of their collections. This year, we proudly sponsored Lars Mertens, supporting him in bringing his creative vision to life. We also worked alongside Tristan and Stan, contributing bespoke accents and finishing details that helped enhance the storytelling and identity of their pieces.

Each year, the Labels & Things Award recognizes a designer whose work reflects the values that define our company: creativity, authenticity, technical excellence, and a strong attention to detail. Following this year’s show, we are proud to announce Minghui Zhao as the recipient of the 2026 Labels & Things Award.

From the moment we discovered her collection, we were drawn to the energy behind her work. Her creative vision felt both confident and distinctive, combining technical skill with a clear personal narrative. In particular, her use of embroidery, badges, and headwear elements captured our attention. These details were not merely decorative additions but integral parts of the collection’s identity, demonstrating how craftsmanship can elevate storytelling and create emotional connection.

Minghui Zhao

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LABELS & THINGS AWARD

 

For us, Minghui Zhao represents the kind of creative talent that continues to push fashion forward while remaining deeply committed to the value of detail and individuality. Her approach resonates strongly with the spirit of Labels & Things, making her a natural choice for this year’s award.

We congratulate Minghui on this well deserved recognition and look forward to supporting her creative journey as she takes the next steps in her career. We also extend our congratulations to all graduates of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, whose work continues to reinforce Antwerp’s reputation as one of the world’s leading centers for fashion education and innovation.

ph / Alie Storfs / Emmanuel De Prycker