Working together,growing together.
What does it mean to create together?
Every year, our team visits the Fashion Department of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp as part of the selection procedure for the L&T Award. This isn’t about remote selections on paper – it’s about showing up, meeting face-to-face, and building real connections.
We introduce ourselves: what we do, how we work, and what we value – craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a shared commitment to responsible creation. Most importantly, we share why these values matter to us – because we believe that what you make should matter, and how you make it matters even more.
Then it’s time for the students to speak.
In a series of personal, one-on-one conversations, they show us their work, their vision, their uncertainties, and their aspirations. They share where they are now and where they hope to go – not only their current collection but also their early ideas for the year ahead: from material choices to mood, and everything in between. And, most importantly, how they would use a collaboration with us to shape their vision.
From these conversations, we select our top three. Not just the most eye-catching designs, but the ones who show openness to collaboration – to co-creating something new. During the SHOW where the students present their final collection, we observe again and make our final decision based on who truly stands out. That way, we’re certain we’ve chosen the one who made the strongest impression.
What does this mean for them?
A journey of creative freedom. They’ll have access to our international production teams, materials, and techniques – from custom headwear to metal hardware, embroidery to experimental branding. Nothing is too unconventional, as long as it’s personal and purposeful.
But this collaboration is more than just support for a masters collection. It’s a shared experience, built on trust. A space where designers can express themselves freely, and where we act as partners, not just advisors. We guide, but we don’t control. We inspire, but we don’t take over. It’s a tailored journey that we hope marks the beginning of a lasting relationship.
Together, we create something that resonates – a collection that stands as a statement, a collaboration, and a signature in one.
This is what it means to create together.
Stay tuned – after the show, we’ll be announcing the winner of this year’s Labels & Things Award.
