Harris Reed and Klarna launch competition for designers to champion gender fluidity

British-American inclusive fashion designer Harris Reed has partnered with Klarna to launch a competition to find emerging talent within the fashion community.

The competition, which is now open to UK and US residents, will challenge young designers to think sustainably and champion inclusivity to create a look using recycled and eco conscious materials.

Judged by Harris Reed, the competition asks aspiring runway designers to create a look that represents a fluid world through a sustainable lens. Whilst open to all designers, the competition encourages members of the LGBTQIA+ community to participate.

The winner of the competition will have access to mentoring from Harris, where they will receive fashion advice and feedback on their design.

Commenting on the initiative, Harris Reed said: “My vision is that inclusivity and sustainability will become central to the future of fashion. There is no better way to foster this eco-conscious, inclusive culture than to instill this in the next generation of aspiring fashion designers. This competition builds on my previous work to champion gender inclusivity and I look forward to meeting with the winner and future creative talent.”

David Sandstrom, CMO at Klarna, said: “Klarna has long focused on championing diversity and inclusion in all that we do. Partnering with Harris Reed for this competition is a great opportunity to back the future of British American fashion, it builds on our work both supporting the fashion industry and designers but also ensuring consumers have sustainable fashion choices open to them."