Meet Teen Vogue’s Next Generation, Class of 2023

We are happy to announce our teen fashion Next Generation 2023 designer class. Every year, teen fashion calls on young fashion designers as a way to support their careers, help them rise in a competitive industry, and provide them with the mentorship they need on their journey. More than 100 designers ages 18 and older from across the United States submitted their work in hopes of landing a spot in the Class of 2023, and our panel of judges selected six exceptionally talented creatives as winners.

This year’s judges included designer and entrepreneur Elena Vélez; Theophilo designer Edvin Thompson; stylist and creative director Brittany Howard; Studio 189 co-founder Abrima Erwiah; and Snapchat’s global head of fashion and beauty, Rajni Jacques.

Each designer will receive a $1,000 prize and a professional consultation with one of the judges to provide guidance as they pursue a career in fashion.

“We are very excited about the winners of this year’s Generation Next contest,” says teen fashion Executive Editor Danielle Kwateng. “with so many conversations right now about the need for diversity in fashion, particularly representation in creative director roles at major fashion houses, this new generation of designers gives us hope that change is coming. Each of the six winners draws on their rich cultural backgrounds to create garments that highlight the beauty of style across the diaspora. “We are sure that they are stars of the future and that they will shake up the industry for the better.”

Congratulations to the teen fashion Next Generation, Class of 2023! Meet the winners below.

Layla Wan, 22 | Savannah College of Art and Design

“Being a womenswear designer with a strong sense of style and creativity, I have a relatable design aesthetic,” says Layla Wan. “My designs thrive at the intersection of modern elegance and innovation, while keeping them fun, honest and contemporary. Growing up with my grandmother, who is a restorer of antique textiles, I had access to learning about various textiles from a very young age. Therefore, I understand the characteristics of different types of fabrics and materials, which allows me to do less with the fabric, but still have it show the satisfactory effect.”