Meet the 2024 Best Fashion Talent Finalists, Redefining Sustainable Fashion

Each year, Best Fashion Talent expands, highlighting outstanding Slovak talent and providing new opportunities for designers. The finalists have already showcased their collections at international fashion events, such as those in London and Budapest, and are available at the SOM store.

“One of our biggest successes was Mata Durikovic, who won the Best Fashion Talent title and the National Design Award. The Tatra Bank Foundation has been a longtime supporter of this meaningful platform, and this year’s partnership with eco-developer Corwin highlights the growing emphasis on sustainability,” says Zuzana Bobikova, Director of the Slovak Fashion Council.

This year, the finalists are also part of a mentoring program with guidance from renowned designers and industry experts like Juraj Straka, Mata Durikovic, Kristina Sipulova, and brands such as Alain Delon and Nehera.

These designers will showcase their collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Live! on October 13, 2024, in the iconic Slovak National Gallery, where the winner of this prestigious award will also be announced.

The expert jury looked at each designer’s artistry, craftsmanship, ability to communicate their vision, commercial potential, and commitment to sustainability. Dominika Kozakova, Jozef Kahanek, and GONOE impressed the jury with their distinctive styles and fresh ideas.

Meet the Finalists:

Dominika Kozakova: Known for her bold inspiration from modern circus themes, Kozakova’s collections stand out with daring cuts, vivid colors, and extravagant techniques. Her proactive approach to marketing, paired with her craftsmanship and creative vision, makes her one of the leading designers of her generation. The jury likened her to the iconic Vivienne Westwood for her ability to blend art and fashion with a commercial edge.

Jozef Kahanek: Kahanek is celebrated for his work with upcycled materials and experimental combinations, such as lace and clay, which create unique textures and visual stories. The jury praised his innovative techniques and skill in transforming used materials into artfully crafted pieces. His designs transcend fast fashion, focusing instead on the deep value of creativity and craft.

GONOE (Patrik Platko and Max Basala): Focused on upcycled streetwear, GONOE impressed the jury with their strong visuals and clear message. Patrik and Max have developed a cohesive, unique fashion concept, proving that sustainability can be integral to high-end streetwear. Their refined collections show that responsible fashion can be both stylish and practical.

Jury Remarks

Juraj Straka, a textile designer and honorary jury member, praised the finalists: “This year’s Best Fashion Talent competition showcased not only the diversity of each designer’s artistic vision but also their business sense. From original textiles to collectible pieces, upcycled garments, and thoughtful business models, the contestants have shown that fashion is a broad field where everyone can find their place. The top three finalists represent this diversity, and each has potential for international success.”

For the first time, this year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Live! will also present a special award for sustainability, sponsored by eco-developer Corwin. This new award highlights the importance of sustainability as a critical part of fashion’s future.

Corwin’s CEO, Marian Hlavacka, emphasized the company’s commitment: “Sustainability, community support, and artistic creation are our core values. We strive to lead by example, not only through our projects but also in the initiatives we support. It’s essential for us to give young, talented people the chance to develop and create responsibly.”

 The Sustainable Fashion Talent Award will be given to one of the three finalists, underscoring the importance of environmentally friendly practices in fashion design.

Director of the Slovak Fashion Council Zuzana Bobikova adds: “The Best Fashion Talent is a unique award celebrating young designers in our country. The consistent quality of our finalists and the expert jury’s recognition confirms that it’s valuable to keep developing and improving this format. We thank our partners for sharing this vision and congratulate the BFT’24 finalists!”