Fashion as Protest: Designing for Change, Vivienne Westwood Global Challenge

This challenge invites aspiring fashion designers to channel the bold spirit of Vivienne Westwood by creating a statement piece that fuses sustainability with political activism.

Participants will explore how fashion can become a tool for protest, using design to address pressing global issues such as climate change, social justice, or ethical production.

The goal is to craft a conceptually rich, visually striking garment that not only makes a statement but also incorporates sustainable practices like upcycling, zero-waste techniques, or innovative eco-friendly materials. Through this challenge, participants will embrace Vivienne Westwood’s legacy of defying conventions and using fashion as a platform for meaningful change.

This is their chance to showcase creativity, passion, and a commitment to shaping a more sustainable, more just, and more beautiful world.

Key Details

When
April 6, 2025 (On-demand/Asynchronous)
All participants will receive the necessary materials to compete.

Who can participate?
High school students starting university in September 2025 or 2026.
Applicants must participate individually.

About the deliverables

Participants will submit:

A digital portfolio with research notes, concept sketches, and final design illustrations.

A 2-minute video showcasing the garment and its message.

A 500-word summary detailing the design process, material choices, and impact.

A detailed brief with full submission guidelines will be sent to all participants after the registration deadline.

Format
Online (On-demand/Asynchronous)

Key Dates

Registration Deadline: April 6th2025

On that date, from 3 PM to 4 PM (Madrid Time), participants will receive a detailed brief with full submission guidelines to help them work on their project and submit it.
Project Submission Deadline: 20th April 2025
Winner Announcement: 6th May 2025

Winner’s Award

The winner will receive a 30% award to pursue any undergraduate degree at IE University.

Note: The award is contingent on successfully completing the IE University admission process and securing an offer to start in September 2025 or 2026.

Fashion as Protest: Designing for Change, Vivienne Westwood Global Challenge award apply to all 4 or 5 years of studies of the undergraduate degree at IE University on the condition that recipient comply with IE University award yearly renewal requirements policy.

The award is compatible with other IE scholarships/awards, with a maximum total accumulation of 100%.

Participants who submit high-quality work will receive a certificate of recognition, with special mentions for second and third place.