JFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026 Grand Prix mukcyen Designer Yuka Kimura / Special Award Jun.y
The NEXT BRAND AWARD, established in 2022, was created in line with JFWO’s mission to “cultivate and support designers as they launch from Japan to the world.” In its first and second editions, the award recognized FETICO, KANAKO SAKAI, and TELMA, helping each brand grow its visibility and amplify its message both domestically and internationally. Now entering its third year, the program expands significantly, with increased prize funding and support, including facilitating connections to potential business partners and a stronger focus on global outreach. The selected brand will have the opportunity to present its creative vision and brand identity through a runway show in Japan, along with strategic support to elevate its branding and accelerate international growth. Through this program, JFWO remains committed to helping emerging brands take bold steps forward onto the global stage.
JJFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026 Grand Prix
mukcyen
Designer Yuka Kimura
Runway Show: September 1 (Monday) 13:00- Shibuya Hikarie Hikarie Hall A
Designer Yuka Kimura
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mukcyen/
Born in Tokyo in 1998, Kimura spent her early childhood in China. After graduating from the Apparel Design Course at Bunka Fashion College, Kimura spent four years in the planning department of a Japanese designer brand. With over 200,000 followers on social media, Kimura is also popular as a model and influencer, gaining attention for her hair, makeup, and styling. She made her debut as the designer for the womenswear brand mukcyen, founded by SOHKI of M A S U, in the 2024-25 Autumn/Winter season.
Recipient’s Comment: I’m deeply grateful to be selected as the recipient for the JFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026. The upcoming 2026 S/S season marks the fourth collection since mukcyen’s launch during the 24 A/W season. I’ve been incredibly lucky to be supported by many people since day one. Step by step, together with those who share my vision, I’ve been able to shape the brand into what it is today. Receiving this award is both a meaningful recognition of what we have accomplished so far and an opportunity to reflect on how mukcyen, as a brand, can contribute to society moving forward. As we prepare for our first-ever runway show, I’ll remain true to the brand’s core while continuing to explore new directions and possibilities. Thank you for your continued support.
JFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026 Selection Committee
Fashion Designer Naoki Takizawa
Condé Nast Japan VOGUE JAPAN Head of Editorial Content Tiffany Godoy
INFAS Publications WWDJAPAN Editor in Chief Kaname Murakami
FASHION CORE MIDWEST President and CEO Takenori Osawa
yoshiokubo Designer Yoshio Kubo
Fashion Journalist Mami Osugi
Comments from the Judges
The designer’s vision and story for the future are clear, and I felt great potential for what’s next.
I sense a strong will and determination to continue creating collections with a unique, singular identity.
The presence of a strong foundation in craftsmanship suggests that this is a brand that can grow and develop in many ways.
Based on the above comments, we are pleased to select mukcyen as the Grand Prix winner.
JFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026 Special Award
Jun.y
Designer Jun Yamamoto
The Special Award is awarded to Jun.y in recognition of the brand’s elevated creativity and technical skill. Jun.y will present designs at the Rakuten Fashion Week TOKYO 2026 S/S Opening Event & Japan Fashion Week 20th Anniversary Ceremony on August 29, where guests will have the opportunity to speak directly with the designer (details to be announced).
Designer Jun Yamamoto
Born in Tokyo in 1995. After graduating from Bunka Fashion College, Yamamoto joined a Japanese brand before leaving to start his own brand. Jun.y presented its debut collection in June 2024.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jun.y/
JFW NEXT BRAND AWARD 2026 Grand Prix Support Details
The winning brand will receive the following support for presenting physical shows at Rakuten FWT 2026 S/S in September 2025 and 2026 A/W in March 2026:
➤Prize Money: 3,000,000 per year (tax excl.)
➤Free usage of official venues and exemption from participation fees at Rakuten FWT in September 2025 and March 2026.
➤Video and photography of runway show for the 2026 S/S and A/W seasons
➤Meetings with JFW’s invited overseas buyers during Rakuten FWT 2026 S/S
➤Opportunities for press and communication through JFW’s official media outlets
➤Invitation to PREMIÈRE VISION PARIS (September 16–18), including exhibition of designs and presentation of collection video at the venue
Facilitation of business meetings with international buyers, introductions to global textile companies, and PR of brand activities through official social media channel
Program Website
https://rakutenfashionweektokyo.com/en/topics/information/art_20250508_02/
