Paolina Russo wins the first Zalando Visionary Award

London based brand Paolina Russo has been named the winner of the first Zalando Visionary Award and will present its collection at Copenhagen Fashion Week in August 2023

The brand demonstrated its dedication to creativity and innovation through collections that combine artisan techniques with industrialized manufacturing, bridging the gap between heritage craftsmanship and technology.

The Zalando Visionary Award celebrates the makers of the future and enables designers to showcase their dedication to creativity, innovation and positive social impact.

About Paolina Russo

The London based brand, founded in 2021 by Paolina Russo and Lucile Guilmard, is rooted in outstanding creativity with a large focus on knitwear and an aim to lead the craft revival of tomorrow. Paolina Russo demonstrated its visionary approach and dedication to innovation through its vibrant and versatile knitwear collections that combine artisan techniques with industrialized manufacturing, bridging the gap between heritage craftsmanship and technology to push the boundaries of design.

Paolina Russo treats its supply chain as creative partners: through visiting manufacturers and working face to face on the factory floor, the founders have the ability to learn from their supply chain’s processes and expertise to create garments that change the perception of what traditional knitwear can be. In addition, the brand has demonstrated a strong focus on its environmental impact by ensuring ethical sourcing, the use of natural, singular fibres and partnering with certified manufacturers.

"Meeting the high standards of an award like this brings us closer to our goal: modernising craftsmanship and rethinking traditional techniques through innovation and responsible fashion products." – Paolina Russo

About the Zalando Visionary Award

The winner of the Zalando Visionary Award was chosen by an international jury consisting of thought leaders, representatives from Zalando and the Copenhagen Fashion Week show committee including Brand Advisor, Dio Kurazawa; Creative and Buying Director at Highsnobiety, Herbert Hofmann; Fashion Stylist, Leah Abbott; Director of Designer and Luxury at Zalando, Lena-Sophie Röper and CEO of Copenhagen Fashion Week, Cecilie Thorsmark.

As the winner of the award, Paolina Russo will receive a prize of 50.000 euros and showcase its collection at Copenhagen Fashion Week in August 2023 as part of the official show schedule. Zalando will provide monetary support for show production to bring Paolina Russo’s vision to the runway, spotlighting the brand’s commitment to creating a collection of the future.