A chance to display her body of work

Fashion is a fickle mistress. In an industry predicated on newness, timing is crucial to maintaining a profile that is both relevant and exciting; not least for a designer whose name has yet to open any doors. For haute couture specialists, the success rate is riskier still.

Dubliner Maria Lola Roche, who has been shortlisted as one of the top five emerging names in the prestigious Designer for Tomorrow competition is all too aware of this. Hosted by Peek & Cloppenburg Düsseldorf and its online shop, Fashion ID, the award aims to provide individual and long-term sponsorship of up-and-coming design talent, an international platform for their creativity and valuable insights into the machinations of the fashion industry.

The prize? Personal mentoring by 2014’s patron Tommy Hilfiger, provision of a studio, production of a collection, sponsorship acquisition and his or her solo fashion show at the next Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Berlin.