As part of the official AW2026 program of Shanghai Fashion Week, the finals and awards ceremony of the first China Cup International Fashion Design Competition for High School Students were successfully held at the Sihang Warehouse Creative Venue.
More than 120 high school student designers from over 60 schools worldwide gathered in Shanghai to present their creativity across three competition categories: fashion design, fashion illustration, and fashion accessories. Through their works, the young participants showcased a fresh generation's perspectives on fashion, culture, and creative expression.
Founded in 1995, the China Cup International Fashion Design Competition marks its 30th anniversary this year. At this milestone moment, the competition introduced a high school category for the first time, aiming to create a more professional, international, and growth-oriented platform for young designers worldwide, while strengthening the connection between secondary art education, design training, and industry resources.
Since its launch, the competition has received nearly 400 submissions from students across China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, and other countries and regions. Following multiple rounds of evaluation, selected works advanced to the stage of Shanghai Fashion Week, completing a full journey from creative concept to runway presentation.
The successful conclusion of this year's competition also marks a further expansion of the China Cup system into youth design education. The event featured a series of ceremonies, including partner recognition, alliance school accreditation, and awards for outstanding organization, strengthening collaboration among schools, institutions, and industry partners.
Looking ahead, the China Cup International Fashion Design Competition for High School Students will continue to leverage high-profile platforms such as Shanghai Fashion Week to promote deeper integration between secondary art education and the fashion industry, supporting young creative talents as they step onto broader professional stages.