Loro Piana announces winners of Knit Design Award 2024

Loro Piana has announced the winners of the 8th edition of the Knit Design Award, presented at the Palazzo Gallarati Scotti in Milan, under the patronage of the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana. École Duperré students Pierre Sauvageot and Björn Backes and their professor François-Xavier Herody won this year’s prize with their project entitled “Cavalieri, A History of Innovation“. Fusing craftsmanship and innovation, the project pushes the boundaries of knitwear while paying homage to the history of Loro Piana.  

This 8th edition of the Loro Piana Knit Design Award continues to promote young designers and passing on the Maison’s unique savoir-faire in knitwear. The competition challenges international students to propose creative interpretations of iconic Loro Piana yarns that epitomize the excellence of the Maison. Since 2016, the award has welcomed talents from the world’s most prestigious design schools, encouraging and supporting a new generation of designers.   

In addition to the visibility created by the award, the winners receive a scholarship and a chance to work with Loro Piana artisans at the Maison’s knitwear workshops in the Piedmont region. 

As Loro Piana celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, the theme “Fast Forward Heritage“ has special resonance with the legacy of Loro Piana and its commitment to the next generation of designers.  

 “The Loro Piana Knit Design Award is an extremely important initiative that fosters the next generation of talents, an award that underlines the importance of craftsmanship, innovation, and creativity. I’m delighted to welcome so many young students who put their passion for the ultimate in quality and technical prowess at the heart of their approach. These are all ideals championed by our Maison,” says Damien Bertrand, CEO of Loro Piana.