World of WearableArt Competition

The World of WearableArt (WOW) Competition is an international design contest that invites artists, designers, and creators to produce wearable art garments for the annual WOW Show in Wellington, New Zealand. Since its inception in 1982, the competition has grown into a global platform where finalists showcase their work on stage, and the winning pieces are displayed in the WOW Show’s spectacular arena performance. The 2026 edition follows the same structure: designers register online, submit their garments by the step‑2 deadline, and selected entries are invited to Wellington for the final show. Participants receive support through shipping arrangements, designer events, workshops, and a chance to be featured in the show. The competition offers over NZ$200,000 in prize value, including awards for best design, best use of materials, and other categories. Entry is free, and the competition is open to designers worldwide, with separate entry windows for international and New Zealand designers. The 2026 cycle closed its entry period in February 2026, but the competition is an annual recurring event, with the next edition opening in November 2026.

Designer Development Award, exclusive internship with Wētā Workshop

Open to anyone over 18, globally. Designers enter from the worlds of fashion, industrial design, architecture, art, and many more.