THAILAND STUDENT DESIGN

COMPETITION

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The Real Leather. Stay Different. Thailand Student Design Competition returns for 2026 and the sixth chapter of our global search for bold, future-facing design talent.

This is your opportunity to design with real leather, challenge the fast fashion cycle and showcase your work on an international stage. Previous finalists have presented their work in London, Milan and Taipei, with each year opening new doors for the designers involved.

Have you got what it takes to stand out globally and shape the future of fashion?

Sign ups open on 15 January. Head to rlsd.internationaldesigncomp.com to register and submit your entry

The brief and deliverables

You are asked to use leather as the inspiration for a single item, either clothing, shoes, or accessories. Entries must be at least 50% cowhide leather by surface area and use natural materials wherever possible. While exceptions may be made for items such as zippers, snap fasteners, the overall design will be evaluated holistically, and a comprehensive list of materials must be provided upon submission. It is important to emphasise that natural materials should be used whenever possible. Please note that the use of fur or exotic skins is strictly prohibited.  We would like your piece to capture one or more of the facets of leather, from beauty and versatility to strength and durability.  

Entries should include the following elements: 

  1. A summary of your project provided in English. 
  2. Storyboards and design inspiration. 
  3. Sketches, flats, technical specifications (including full list of materials used), and final design (the item does not need to be physically made at this stage). 
  4. A short two-minute video to introduce you and your design. This is optional but encouraged, as it would make a great addition to your entry. 

Please give consideration to ease of recycling, reuse and disposal at the end of the products life, and also think about the practicalities of commercial production, as we are looking for designers who will start new brands, fashion movements, or style trends.  

THREE CATEGORIES AVAILABLE:

1

Apparel

2

Footwear

3

Accessories

DESIGNS THAT CELEBRATE THE BEAUTY, VERSATILITY & SUSTAINABILITY OF LEATHER AND CHAMPION SLOW STYLE.

Designs must be made of at least 50% leather from cow hide.

Any other materials used must be natural or organic materials, for example wood or any natural fibres.

No fur or exotic skins. Our mission is to cut waste and utilise materials that would otherwise be sent to landfill.

Designs will be judged hollistically on all materials used, these must be natural or organic where possible.

Prizes

i) The Overall Winner will be invited to attend the international award ceremony to represent their region. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the Organisers. (The Organisers reserve the right to host a digital event in case of travel restrictions being in place);

ii) Category winners will receive receive a certificate and trophy according to their category; and  

iii) Winners will be included in publicity including, but not limited to, social media promotion, website promotion, and print and digital collateral;

2025 Thailand Winners

Click the below images to find out more about the finalists!

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  • Chai Watana Tannery Group
  • Thai Tanning CO.,LTD.
  • Sanguanthai Chong Chaoroen
  • Interhides public company limited
  • SNK Tannery
  • SRI SINN FAH Tannery
  • Vaikijanek Co., Ltd.
  • Chun Wang Brothers
  • Kongsiri Tannery
  • S.F. Leather House