Young Designer Of The Year Awards

2026

RDS Becomes the Catwalk

Save the Date: 6th Feb 2027

We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Fashion Show will take place at the RDS, one of Dublin’s most iconic venues. Get ready for an unforgettable showcase of style, creativity, and emerging talent in a space perfectly suited for a night of fashion and flair.

If you want it shorter, more formal, more playful, or tailored to a specific audience, I can shape it however you like.

Meet our host for 2026 Show

Lorraine Keane

Lorraine Keane is one of Ireland’s most recognisable and respected broadcasters, journalists, and event hosts. With a career spanning over two decades in television, radio, and print, she has established herself as a trusted voice in lifestyle, entertainment, and current affairs. Best known as the former anchor of Xposé on TV3, Lorraine has interviewed some of the world’s biggest stars and continues to be a sought-after presenter and media personality.

Beyond her broadcasting career, Lorraine is also a highly engaging keynote speaker and event MC, renowned for her warm personality, professionalism, and ability to connect with any audience. Her strong reputation and loyal following make her an ideal brand ambassador and media partner, bringing both credibility and influence to any project she’s involved in.

Tan brand

 

Partners for 2026 Fashion Show

Mattress Mick’s

Known across Ireland for his bold personality, creativity, and unforgettable campaigns, Michael “Mattress Mick” Flynn has turned a family business into an iconic Irish brand. From high-quality mattresses to stylish bedroom furniture, beds and bed frames. He’s all about comfort, design, and making a big impact!

This year, Mick has also released his new book “Bouncing Back,” sharing his remarkable story of resilience, reinvention, and success, a true inspiration to anyone chasing their dreams.

Having Mattress Mick as one of our PARTNERS adds fun, energy, and heart to the show. It’s because of the generosity of people like Mick that allows us to run this event in a place as prestigious as Croke park in Dublin.

Check out his Website:  www.mattressmick.ie

Shanley Interiors

Based in Navan, Co Meath, Shanley Interiors is renowned for elevating spaces with warmth, elegance, and curated sophistication. Their expertise spans full-service interior design, bespoke furniture, luxurious lighting, and thoughtfully chosen décor pieces, creating interiors that are both inspiring and inviting. Their unwavering commitment to craft, attention to detail, and passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces is something we deeply admire, and it perfectly complements the creativity we celebrate in our emerging designers. Shanley Interiors also offers collaborations.

Their support is absolutely fundamental in helping bring this awards show to life, making it a celebration of talent and creativity we could only dream of.

Check out their website: www.shanleyinteriors.com

Meet our Judges

Helen Steele

Award-winning Irish fashion designer Helen Steele will be joining our judging panel at this year’s Project Fashion Show at The RDS

Check out: helensteele.com

Fashion with Heart

Supporting The Irish Youth Foundation

The Irish Youth Foundation is a registered charity and grant making foundation in the Republic of Ireland dedicated solely to meeting the needs of children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We do this by supporting a wide range of outstanding projects and organisations across the country and by working closely with Ireland’s dedicated youth workers and project leaders to help give Ireland’s underrepresented young people the tools needed to reach their full potential in life.

26/27 Collection Theme

Dress To Impress

Strut into the world of Dress to Impress and transform this fashionista fantasy into your own stylish reality! Whether you showboat your swag through street style, to being a rebellious punk or perhaps you have a young heart with a seventies soul, or maybe a visionary for the future of fashion this collection has it all. From dramatic silhouettes, tantalizing textures, and dynamic layering combinations. Become your own customizable avatar ready to make heads turn.

Previous Shows

Fashion Show 2025

Neon Jungle Collections

Fashion Show 2024

Sidewalk to Catwalk Collections

Fashion Show 2023

School of Style Collection

Fashion Show 2022

Wizard of Oz Collections

Empower Irish Creativity

Support Irish talent, inspire innovation, and showcase your brand as a leader in creativity. Join us as a sponsor of the Young Designer of the Year Awards and make a lasting impact!

Become a Sponsor