Next Generation Awards

Student Competitions

Six years ago, the Accessories Council began a student design award competition for the graduating class of the Accessory Design program the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). The Next Generation Awards was formed. We are proud to say that this program has now grown to include both a design competition at FIT and a marketing competition at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM). The Council is committed to fostering the talents of the next wave of designers and professionals in the accessory industry.

The Next Generation Awards: FIT features an accessories exhibition that includes designs from 1 year and 4 year students from the Accessory and Jewelry Design programs. Students compete for design awards in handbag, footwear, belts/small leather goods, hat & glove and jewelry categories. This event is designed to celebrate the work of young talent and provide internship opportunities for the graduates.

The Next Generation Awards: LIM is a special program focusing on encouraging the marketing skills of tomorrow’s business leaders. The event features an exhibition by the graduates of LIM’s marketing program who competed for awards in the categories of retail store, accessory product and publication development.