Irish designer Sinéad O'Dwyer made her debut at Copenhagen Fashion Week as the 2024 Zalando Visionary Award winner, showcasing her Spring/Summer 2025 collection, “Everything Opens to Touch.” The show was set in the picturesque Opera Park, where the atmosphere was transformed into a dreamy summer landscape. Sculptures inspired by O'Dwyer's early work with artist Jade O'Belle and a soundscape by Witch Trials and Cosha added depth to the experience. Cosha also read a poem written by London-based author Anastasiia Fedorova, enhancing the immersive nature of the show.

Continuing her commitment to inclusivity, O'Dwyer collaborated with models and creatives, including Alva Claire and musician Mahalia, to bring her vision to life. For the second time, the brand partnered with the Hair and Care Foundation to ensure that blind and low-vision guests could fully experience the runway show. This included immersive audio descriptions, fabric swatches for tactile engagement, and the inclusion of blind model and broadcaster Lucy Edwards, who walked the runway with her guide dog, marking a first for Copenhagen Fashion Week.

O'Dwyer’s collection reimagines her signature styles with new touches, including shibari-inspired harnesses with short sleeves, micro-culottes with rara ruffles, and fitted shirts in new materials like deep blue denim. The collection also featured collaborations with other brands, such as Grounds Footwear, which contributed bubble-soled shoes with laced-up uppers inspired by Irish dancing shoes, and Savage X Fenty, which provided lace underwear that peeked through layers of denim and wool. Ecco’s bags were customized by O'Dwyer in her signature 'Squiggle' stretch nylon.

Zalando Visionary Award: A Celebration of Innovation and Inclusivity

Following the runway debut, Zalando hosted an exclusive re-see of O'Dwyer’s SS25 collection and a panel discussion on inclusivity in fashion. Industry leaders joined Sinéad to discuss her inspiration, particularly her focus on curve fashion and the importance of designing for all body types. Sinéad emphasized that the problem lies not with the wearer but with clothes that aren't made to fit everyone.

Jury members Giuliano Calza of GCDS and Edward Buchanan of SANSOVINO6 reflected on why they chose O'Dwyer as this year’s award winner. Edward highlighted that true inclusivity begins with involving models in the design process, a value central to Sinéad's work.

Casting Director Emma Matell and artist Jade O’Belle also shared their thoughts on the importance of inclusive casting and how brands can integrate this mindset from the beginning. They urged the industry to move away from exclusivity and instead celebrate inclusivity as a core value.

Hacinta Naidoo, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Zalando, spoke about the company's ongoing commitment to a more inclusive fashion future. She shared insights into how Zalando is driving positive change through initiatives like the “Walk A Mile” campaign, which saw collaborations with designers, including panelist Giuliano Calza, to create an inclusive shoe collection that defied industry expectations.

This event not only celebrated Sinéad O'Dwyer's innovative designs but also highlighted the broader movement towards a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry, one where everyone has a place.

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